Understanding Your Rights When Transaction Transfer Costs Are Paid but the Deal Falls Through
In the world of property transactions in South Africa, unexpected twists can occur. You’ve diligently paid all the necessary transfer costs to the transferring attorney, eagerly anticipating the completion of your property deal, only to face the disheartening news that the transaction will not proceed as planned. What are your rights in such a situation? […]
Navigating Financial Uncertainty After Your Ex-Spouse’s Passing: What Are the Next Steps?
Losing a former spouse is a challenging and emotional experience, and when you relied on their monthly maintenance payments for financial support, it can create added stress and uncertainty. In South Africa, understanding your rights and taking the appropriate steps is essential to ensure your financial well-being. In this article, we’ll explore the next steps […]
Unraveling the Meaning of “Unnatural Causes” on a Death Certificate: Implications for Reporting the Estate
The passing of a loved one is a deeply emotional and often complicated experience. When a death certificate indicates “unnatural causes,” it adds another layer of complexity to an already challenging situation. In this article, we will explore what it means when a death certificate mentions “unnatural causes,” specifically in the context of reporting the […]
Understanding Life Rights in Retirement Villages: What You Need to Know When Scaling Down
As individuals approach retirement age, many consider downsizing and moving to retirement villages for a more relaxed and community-oriented lifestyle. One common arrangement in such communities is life rights. But what exactly does life rights on a property mean, and how does it affect your living situation in a retirement village in South Africa? In […]
Understanding Delays in the Property Transfer Process in South Africa
Buying or selling a property is usually an exciting journey. However, it’s essential to acknowledge that this process is not without its challenges. In this article, we delve deep into the common reasons for delays in property transfers, shedding light on potential hurdles that may dampen the excitement of moving into your new property. Common […]
Safeguarding Inherited Assets in the Face of Insolvency
In today’s world, the spectre of insolvency looms over many individuals, especially after the blow that Covid-19 has brought down on South Africans. As such, it’s increasingly important to consider how your hard-earned assets will be protected in the event that your heirs face financial turmoil. What if one of your heirs, the intended recipient […]
The Administration of an Insolvent Deceased Estate: When Liabilities Outweigh Assets
Dealing with the passing of a loved one is an emotionally challenging experience, and managing the administration of their estate can add complexity to an already difficult time. In some cases, the deceased’s estate may turn out to be insolvent, meaning that the debts and liabilities left behind outweigh the available assets. Understanding the Basics […]
What happens to my company if I die?
Death is inevitable, but it can also be unpredictable. If you are a business owner, you may wonder what will happen to your company if you die unexpectedly. Who will take over the management? How will your assets be distributed? What will happen to your employees and clients? Who will inherit your shares and assets? […]
What can I do if I am a new owner and there are problems with the electrical compliance certificate?
If you have recently bought a property in South Africa, you may have received an electrical compliance certificate (ECoC) from the seller. An ECoC is a legal document that verifies that an electrical installation is compliant with the legal requirements as stipulated in the Electrical Installations Occupational Health and Safety Act of South Africa. The […]
What does it mean if the death certificate says “unnatural causes” – specific to reporting the estate
If the death certificate says “unnatural causes”, it means that the person died due to something other than natural causes. This has several implications for reporting the estate of the deceased, especially if the death occurred in South Africa. One of the most important implications is that the death must be reported to the South […]