How can you improve my credit score, so you can secure a bond

Lake Properties

Improving your credit score to secure a bond typically requires consistent effort over time. Here are key steps to boost your credit score:

1. Pay Bills on Time

Payment history is the most significant factor in credit scoring. Late payments can significantly lower your score.

Set up automatic payments or reminders to ensure all bills (credit cards, loans, utilities, etc.) are paid on or before their due dates.

2. Reduce Credit Utilization

Keep your credit card balances low relative to your credit limits.

Aim to use less than 30% of your available credit limit; under 10% is even better.

If possible, pay off credit card balances in full each month.

3. Avoid Opening or Closing Too Many Accounts

New credit inquiries can temporarily lower your score. Apply for credit only when necessary.

Closing accounts can reduce your available credit and negatively impact your credit utilization ratio.

4. Check Your Credit Report for Errors

Obtain your credit report from credit bureaus and check for inaccuracies.

Dispute any incorrect information, such as accounts you don’t recognize or errors in reported payments.

5. Diversify Your Credit Mix

Having a mix of credit types (e.g., credit cards, installment loans, mortgages) can boost your score, but don’t open new accounts just for this reason.

6. Build a Credit History

If you’re new to credit, consider using a secured credit card or becoming an authorized user on someone else’s account to establish a history.

7. Keep Old Accounts Open

The length of your credit history contributes to your score. If you have old accounts in good standing, keep them open.

8. Pay Off Debt Strategically

Focus on paying down high-interest debt first.

Consider the debt snowball (smallest balance first) or debt avalanche (highest interest rate first) method.

9. Limit Hard Inquiries

Each hard inquiry (e.g., when applying for loans or credit) can slightly lower your score. Plan applications wisely.

10. Work with a Professional if Needed

If your score is very low, consult a credit counselor or financial advisor to create a tailored plan.

Improving your credit score takes time, so start these steps as soon as possible. With a strong credit score, lenders are more likely to approve your bond application with favorable terms.

Quick Decision Pressure: In hot markets, you may feel rushed to make offers without thorough consideration.

Lake Properties

In hot markets, the pressure to act quickly can be intense due to high competition and rapidly changing conditions. This "quick decision pressure" may push buyers or investors to make offers hastily, sometimes without conducting sufficient due diligence or fully evaluating the risks.

To navigate this effectively:

Set clear priorities: Define your budget, non-negotiables, and goals ahead of time.

Be prepared: Have financing, paperwork, and necessary approvals ready in advance.

Rely on experts: Work with trusted agents, advisors, or legal professionals to help you assess opportunities swiftly.

Stay disciplined: Resist the urge to compromise on critical criteria due to time pressure.

Know when to walk away: If the deal feels too rushed to assess properly, it might not be worth the risk.

Acting decisively is important, but balance it with informed decision-making to avoid costly mistakes.

What are the taxes you have pay when buying a house in South Africa

When buying a house in South Africa, you may need to pay several taxes and fees, depending on the value of the property and whether you are financing the purchase with a bond. Below is a breakdown of common taxes and fees:

1. Transfer Duty

Definition: A tax levied by the government when a property is transferred from one person to another.

Exemptions:

No transfer duty is payable on properties valued at R1 million or less.

Rates for Properties Above R1 Million (as of 2024):

R1,000,001 - R1,375,000: 3% on the value above R1,000,000

R1,375,001 - R1,925,000: R11,250 + 6% on the value above R1,375,000

R1,925,001 - R2,475,000: R44,250 + 8% on the value above R1,925,000

R2,475,001 - R11,000,000: R88,250 + 11% on the value above R2,475,000

Above R11,000,000: R1,026,000 + 13% on the value above R11,000,000

2. VAT (Value-Added Tax)

When Applicable: If you are buying from a property developer and the developer is registered for VAT, VAT (15%) may be included in the purchase price.

Exemption: If VAT applies, transfer duty is not charged.

3. Bond Registration Costs (if financing the purchase)

Payable to register a bond (mortgage) over the property.

Includes fees charged by the bond attorney (based on the bond amount) and the Deeds Office fee.

4. Deeds Office Registration Fee

Paid to register the property in your name at the Deeds Office.

Fee depends on the value of the property and is determined by the Deeds Office tariff.

5. Conveyancing Fees

Paid to the conveyancing attorney responsible for transferring the property into your name.

Fee varies based on the property price and is set according to recommended guidelines by the Legal Practice Council.

6. Rates Clearance Certificate Fee

Local municipalities require a clearance certificate to confirm all municipal rates and taxes are paid up to date.

7. Additional Costs to Consider

Homeowners’ Insurance: Required by lenders for bonded properties.

Levy Clearance Certificate: For properties in sectional title schemes or estates.

Occupational Rent: If you take possession of the property before the transfer is finalized.

It's advisable to consult with a conveyancing attorney to get an accurate estimate of all costs and taxes for your specific purchase.

Why is it important you obtain the plan of the house ,when buying a house

 Lake Properties

Obtaining a plan of the house, when buying a property is crucial for several reasons:

1. Understanding the Layout: A house plan helps you visualize the arrangement of rooms, their sizes, and how they connect. This ensures the layout aligns with your lifestyle and preferences.

2. Future Modifications: If you plan to renovate or make additions, the house plan provides a foundation for architects and contractors to understand the structure and design potential.

3. Compliance with Local Codes: House plans ensure that the property adheres to local building regulations and zoning laws, preventing legal or construction issues later.

4. Efficient Space Use: The plan allows you to assess how space is utilized and whether it meets your needs (e.g., storage, open spaces, or room sizes).

5. Budget Planning: Knowing the house's dimensions and layout can help estimate utility costs, furniture needs, and potential maintenance expenses.

6. Resale Value: A well-documented house plan can increase the property's value and make it more appealing to future buyers.

7. Inspection and Maintenance: The plan can assist in identifying critical areas for inspection (e.g., plumbing, wiring) and make maintenance easier.

Having the house plan ensures you are fully informed about what you're buying, reducing surprises and helping you make a more confident investment.