Latest Western Cape Property News — 2026-02-18

Today's Key Takeaways

Today’s edition highlights Cape Town’s new valuation roll, practical guidance on choosing the right agent, buyer and seller FAQs, and how sectional‑title owners should resolve disputes.

Stories That Matter

The 2026 valuation reset: What Cape Town owners need to know

Source: Property24 | Date: 16 Feb 2026

Property24 reports that the City of Cape Town has finalised its General Valuation Roll (GV2025), which will drive municipal rates and taxes across the metro until the next valuation in 2028. The updated values take effect on 1 July 2026, and owners should receive their new municipal valuations during February 2026. Under the Municipal Property Rates Act, every property is assessed at market value as at the valuation date of 1 July 2025, using recognised methods such as comparative sales analysis and computer‑assisted mass appraisal supported by aerial imagery and other datasets. The article warns that mass valuations can miss property‑specific factors like condition, access, noise, views or nearby development plans, which can lead to inflated or understated values and, in turn, higher or lower rates bills. Owners can lodge objections from 20 February to 30 April 2026, but objections need credible comparable sales evidence around the valuation date to succeed. The piece advises owners to verify the City’s property description and consider professional help to compile sales data and motivate an objection where the valuation does not reflect open‑market reality.

Read more: https://www.property24.com/articles/the-2026-valuation-reset-what-cape-town-owners-need-to-know/32947

The pillars of a successful real estate transaction

Source: Property24 | Date: 17 Feb 2026

An article from Property24 argues that the success of a property transaction often hinges on the calibre of the estate agent. Citing Lew Geffen Sotheby’s International Realty CEO Cobus Odendaal, it outlines the non‑negotiables buyers and sellers should demand: formal PPRA registration, relevant qualifications such as NQF Level 5 or higher, a proven record of completed deals in the specific suburb and price band, and strong negotiation and communication skills. The article emphasises hyperlocal knowledge—recent sales, zoning rules, school catchments, planned developments and pricing dynamics—as a key differentiator that can prevent overpricing, reduce time on market, and uncover red flags for buyers. Integrity and transparent disclosure are presented as essential, especially in cases of potential dual‑agency conflicts. Practical guidance includes interviewing multiple agents, asking for a detailed marketing plan, requesting sales track records, and meeting agents in person to test rapport and responsiveness. The overall message is that sellers and buyers should treat the agent as a trusted advisor; strong service and consistent communication reduce stress, protect value and improve the odds of a smooth, timely closing.

Read more: https://www.property24.com/articles/the-pillars-of-a-successful-real-estate-transaction/32723

Ask an agent: Your top real estate questions answered

Source: Property24 | Date: 17 Feb 2026

Property24’s Q&A with DG Properties compiles frequent buyer and seller questions in the Western Cape market. The agency says Cape Town remains resilient, noting Western Cape average prices of about R2.33m versus R1.66m nationally, with Lightstone data showing 8.7% year‑on‑year price growth in January 2025 and strong rental demand driven by semigration. On financing, the article states average deposits sit around 15.4% nationally, while first‑time buyers are closer to 10%; zero‑deposit bonds still exist for strong applicants, and Western Cape approval rates are roughly 86%, with some borrowers achieving prime minus 0.55%. Buyers are urged to budget for transfer duty, bond registration, attorney and deeds fees, moving costs, and municipal deposits. For investment, the CBD, Sea Point, Green Point and Gardens are highlighted for rentals, while Southern Suburbs such as Claremont and Newlands draw families; Cape Town rental growth of 5.4% and apartment yields near 9.42% are cited. The Q&A also weighs freehold versus sectional title, off‑plan versus existing homes, the importance of pricing and presentation to sell quickly, and when renting out can beat selling. The consistent advice: work with experienced agents and bond originators early to avoid costly surprises.

Read more: https://www.property24.com/articles/ask-an-agent-your-top-real-estate-questions-answered/32762

What every sectional-title property owner should know about dispute resolution

Source: Bizcommunity | Date: 17 Feb 2026

Bizcommunity reports that sectional‑title living continues to dominate South Africa’s residential market and is increasingly central to buy‑to‑let strategies. According to ooba Home Loans’ Q4 2025 oobarometer, 66% of individual buy‑to‑let applicants chose sectional‑title homes, reflecting demand for affordability, security and low‑maintenance living. Quoting Only Realty Property Group CEO Grant Smee, the piece explains that disputes often arise when owners are unclear on rules or responsibilities. Common flashpoints include maintenance obligations, levy increases and special levies, rule enforcement (noise, pets, parking, short‑term lets), boundary issues and trustee conduct. Owners’ rights under the Sectional Titles Schemes Management Act include access to body corporate records, well‑maintained common areas funded by levies, and the ability to challenge incorrect charges. The recommended dispute‑resolution path starts with written engagement with trustees or the managing agent, supported by transparent records and consistent rule enforcement. If internal resolution fails, the Community Schemes Ombud Service can issue binding rulings on levies, maintenance and rule enforcement. A recent Supreme Court of Appeal ruling confirms owners are not required to exhaust CSOS before approaching the courts for complex disputes, but mediation and early legal advice remain the preferred path.

Read more: https://www.bizcommunity.com/article/what-every-sectional-title-property-owner-should-know-about-dispute-resolution-951094a

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