How can you be sure a solar provider is legit? Five must-read property articles

Whether you're a homeowner, a first-time homebuyer, an investor or a property professional, Everythingproperty.co.za is your go-to for all the latest property and related lifestyle news.

This expertly curated property news portal is home to digital editions of the fortnightly Business Day HomeFront and Sunday Times Neighbourhood magazines.

In these publications, you’ll find articles that provide expert answers to pressing questions about real estate, such as:

How can you be sure a solar energy provider is legit?

In the wake of the country’s power crisis, solar energy system providers and installers are popping up left, right and centre, some even offering leasing solutions to consumers desperate to find solutions to counteract the ongoing outages. 

As demand creates waiting lists at reputable suppliers, a fresh batch of inexperienced contenders has emerged, some of which may be fly-by-night operations or provide substandard products. So, how do you determine if you're dealing with a credible contract? Follow this advice from commercial attorney PJ Veldhuizen.

Is it still a good time to purchase property?

With the escalation of the country’s energy crisis, higher interest rates and cost of living concerns, is it is still a good time to purchase property? Click here to read what Samuel Seeff, chair of the Seeff Property Group, has to say on the matter.

How has the real estate industry changed over the past 10 years?

The real estate industry has likely seen more change in the past decade than it has in the past 50 years. From the “silver tsunami” to the “millennial influence”, Cobus Odendaal, CEO of Lew Geffen Sotheby’s in Johannesburg and Randburg, highlights factors that are shaking up the sector. Click here to read more. 

Which mixed-use developments should be on your radar?

There’s no doubt that mixed-use developments are becoming increasingly popular with homeowners looking to live in a secure neighbourhood where everything they need — from schools and grocers to medical facilities — is conveniently located within a 15-minute radius. 

In this article, Stefan Botha, director of Rainmaker Marketing, highlights developments that have a successful mix of residential, commercial, retail and recreational facilities.

What should you know before listing your home on Airbnb?

The rising cost of living is prompting more South Africans to consider renting out their homes through platforms such as Airbnb as a side hustle. However, while this may appear to be a quick and easy way to supplement your income, opening your home to strangers always comes with a risk.

In this article, Juan Fourie, head of hospitality and leisure at Santam, highlights what you need to consider from an insurance perspective before turning your property into an Airbnb.

This article was sponsored by Everything Property.