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Understanding The Process Of Debt Collection In South Africa

Debt collection is the procedure by which a debt collector seeks to recover debts owed by individuals or businesses after they fail to make payments.

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Estate Agents and the Duty to Disclose Property Histories

When a home has a history of murder, suicide, or other violent events, does an estate agent have an obligation to disclose this information to potential buyers? Unlike physical defects, which must be documented in property condition reports, South African law does not explicitly require disclosure of psychological stig

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A Note on the New Land Expropriation Act by Dr Roelof Botha

Alarm has been raised over the signing into law of the new Expropriation Act, which allows government at local, provincial and national level to expropriate land in very specific circumstances, with the possibility of zero compensation. Fortunately, however, this Act is simply an update of the 1975 Expropriation Bill,

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What Should Sellers Disclose About a Property’s History?

The sale of properties with troubling pasts—those tied to violent crimes, tragic events, or deeply emotional histories—raises complex questions for both sellers and estate agents. In South Africa, disclosure requirements under the Property Practitioners Act (PPA) create a framework for transparency, but when it comes t

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The Hidden Histories of South African Homes – What Buyers Aren’t Told

For most homebuyers, the focus is on location, price, and the physical condition of a property. But what if there's something far more unsettling hidden behind a home's walls—something that no one is obligated to tell you? In South Africa, a house may have been the site of a murder, suicide, or violent crime, yet buyer

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South Africa’s Expropriation Bill Signed into Law – What It Means

The signing of the Expropriation Bill by President Cyril Ramaphosa on 24 January 2025 has reignited debates over land reform, property rights, and economic stability in South Africa. While supporters argue that the law is a necessary tool to correct historical injustices, critics see it as a threat to private property

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Tax on Crypto in South Africa – What Investors Need to Know

Cryptocurrency has become a popular investment option in South Africa, but many investors are unaware of the legal and tax implications that come with it. As regulations tighten, crypto holders must understand their responsibilities to avoid compliance issues and unexpected penalties.

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A Living Will in South Africa – What is it and Why Does it Matter?

Few people think about what would happen if they were unable to make medical decisions for themselves. In a medical emergency, family members are often left scrambling, uncertain about whether to continue life support, opt for aggressive treatment, or prioritize comfort care. A living will eliminates this uncertainty b

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Appointing an Estate Administrator for Mentally Incapacitated Individuals

When a loved one becomes mentally incapacitated, their ability to manage their affairs often diminishes, creating significant challenges for their wellbeing and those responsible for their care. Whether due to a medical condition, accident, or other unforeseen circumstances, appointing a legal administrator ensures the

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Who Pays for What During the Transfer of Property?

If you're buying or selling property, chances are you're already juggling enough — finances, paperwork, and emotions included. But one of the most common questions that causes confusion (and often, unexpected expense) is: who pays for what during the property transfer process?

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South African Wills in a Nutshell

The creation, interpretation, and execution of wills is covered in The Wills Act 7 of 1953. Introduced in 1953, this legislation has undergone various amendments, but its core principles have remained intact. The Act provides safeguards to protect the interests of both testators and beneficiaries, promoting fairness an

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Types of Marriage Contracts in South Africa

The Matrimonial Property Act, 1984, covers matrimonial property regimes and the financial consequences of marriage as covered in this this article.

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