Ansie Marais - Polokwane Property Practitioner

Property advice: Self-Employed? How to fast-track your bond application https://bit.ly/3uSYVzG

: Make the most of every day

Each room in the home has its own lighting needs.

• The entrance should be friendly and inviting. A centrally-mounted chandelier works well with high ceilings, but almost any light fitting that creates a warm tone will do the job.
• The living room is meant for relaxation and entertainment. You’ll want bright ambient light with dimmer switches for setting the desired mood – ceiling-mounted downlights work well - supplemented with floor lamps, table lamps and sconces.
• The dining room needs lighting bright enough for eating and chatting comfortably. A chandelier or a set of pendant lights are ideal for this but remember not to hang them too low.
• The kitchen usually needs different lighting schemes for the various areas of the room. For example, you’ll need bright lights over the preparation area, with dimmer lighting in areas that are not used as often. Pendant lights are functional, with small spotlights for highlighting dark corners, which can be switched off when not in use.
• Bedrooms need warm ambient lighting with a dimmer switch, bedside table lamps and task lights for reading.
• Bathrooms need to be well-lit. Sconces and bright LED lights work well above mirrors which are key focal points.

Source: PrivateProperty

Property advice: 3 tips to set up a budget before you buy a home https://bit.ly/368Suix

: Learn from the unexpected

Staircases obviously serve a very important functional purpose but they have the potential to elevate an entire house too. So much more than a means to get from point A to point B, stairs really can be the main event.
So whether you're anticipating a remodel in your future and need some beautiful stair design ideas for your house or you simply love to admire architectural stunners, these steps will lead you there.
1. Curved staircase
Curved stairs add elegance to any home. A curved staircase requires far more space and adds a touch of drama to any home.
2. Zig zag design
Gone are the days of straight, simplistic staircases. The intricate and sharp nature of the zig-zag staircase makes it an incredibly popular selection for homes of multiple floors or high rise buildings.
3. Spiral
Spiral staircases take up far less space than most other staircases. The main downside to installing a spiral staircase is moving furniture up and down.
4. Cantilever ‘floating’ staircases
For the homeowner whose tastes are sharply on-trend and modern, this particular design, with its tasteful lines and almost monochromatic style, is a staple for the new year.
5. Winder stairs
Winder stairs are a lot like an L-shaped staircase, except that there is no landing. Instead, the stairs are continuous, taking on a wedge shape as they make the turn.
Source: Property24

Property advice: How Section 13 can ease your tax burden https://bit.ly/3J7W6ih

Bendor: 5 Bedroom Townhouse for Sale - R 3 650 000. Contact Theresa on 083 647 3692 for more info.

𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗔𝗹𝗼𝗲𝘀 𝗟𝗶𝗳𝗲𝘀𝘁𝘆𝗹𝗲 𝗘𝘀𝘁𝗮𝘁𝗲 !!

Beautiful brand new 5 bedroom house available immediately in Panorama East.

All stands have been sold out in Panorama.

This house is superbly built with excellent workmanship and quality finishes.

It offers 5 bedrooms and 3 very spacious bathrooms.

Living area opens up unto a lovely patio with built-in braai.

Swimming pool plans are approved , should you want one!

: Thrive

Got some spare time this weekend? Good! Update an area in your home in less than 24 hours.
CHANGE YOUR DOOR AND CABINET K***S
Replace plain old k***s and handles with fun, quirky ones in unusual shapes or bright colours and patterns. Or give your old handles a fresh coat of paint in a contrasting colour.
CREATE A GALLERY WALL
Have a blank wall in your home that you are not sure what to do with? Consider creating a gallery wall of framed prints, your fave holiday snaps or some treasured pictures of family and friends. You can either opt for a random assortment of frames in different shapes and sizes or the same frames for a more polished look.
A FRESH COAT
A fresh coat of paint can give new life to some old chairs and tables and uninspiring walls. Touch up banged-up skirtings, door and window trims, and wall marks that won’t wash away.
ADD SOME GREENERY
One of the easiest things you can do to freshen up your home is to add flowers, plants, branches and even leaves from your garden. Greenery adds texture and a natural element to any space.
UPCYCLE YOUR FURNITURE
Upcycle furniture such as couches, armchairs and even your bed. You can have the items reupholstered or, a quicker fix, cover them with a textured or patterned throw.
THINK ABOUT WALLPAPER
Wallpaper is a great decorating tool that completely transforms a room or space. It is the perfect option for creating a statement wall or for updating the interior of a walk-in closet. There are so many patterns and colours to choose from – you are guaranteed to find the perfect match for your home.
Source: womanandhomemagazine.co.za

Property advice: How retirement property decisions affect estate planning https://bit.ly/3uAUY1n

: Timing

Consider this your cheat sheet for designing the most beautiful space imaginable.
Not Varying Furniture Heights
The easiest trick is to think of your space as a city and fill it with a combination of heights and proportions. Look at any cityscape and you’ll find this intriguing mix of scale and a unique blend of fascinating shapes—that’s what you want to nail!
Using Dark Furniture in Small Spaces
While it might seem like a harmless choice, dark décor instantly makes a room feel cramped and cumbersome.
Choosing the Wrong Rug Size
As a rule of thumb, a rug should be big enough to fit at least two chairs or sofa legs on it.
Hanging Art at the Wrong Level
Position artwork in an unexpected, subtle location and follow Humphrey’s hanging tip: “Eye-level or so is a good starting point, and I always err on the lower side of that.”
Overdoing Design Trends
Push trends aside and make design choices based on your personal aesthetic to create a space that you’ll love for years to come.
Not Measuring the Room
Measure every nook and cranny. Always map out your space before committing to décor.
Not Prioritizing Greenery
Add a few low-maintenance indoor plants or trees.
Arranging Furniture Flush Against a Wall
Try “conversational furniture placement,” which focuses on grouping accents. Pull pieces toward one another and off the walls to create more intimate, useful seating.
Source: mydomaine.com

The South African Reserve Bank’s Monetary Policy Committee announced its decision to increase the repo rate by 0.25%, from 4% to 4.25% effective Friday, 25 March 2022. The new Prime rate will be 7.75%.

Property news: The case South Africans living in complexes and estates should know about. https://bit.ly/3ivv21u

Polokwane Central: 2 Bedroom Townhouse for Sale - R 750 000. Contact Theresa on 083 647 3692 for more info.

𝐏𝐨𝐥𝐨𝐤𝐰𝐚𝐧𝐞 𝐂𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐫𝐚𝐥 -𝐄𝐱𝐜𝐞𝐥𝐥𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐬𝐭𝐮𝐝𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐚𝐜𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐨𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐨𝐫 𝐲𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐠 𝐜𝐨𝐮𝐩𝐥𝐞𝐬 𝐣𝐮𝐬𝐭 𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐨𝐮𝐭 𝐢𝐧 𝐥𝐢𝐟𝐞

This property is also a very good investment. The rental income presently is R6 100.

All the units have 2 doors. Stay in one bachelor and rent out the other one to help with the instalment,

CBD - Close to all amenities and walking distance to tertiary education facilities.

: Be the light

Here’s a quick checklist of things to consider as you take on your new space:

1. Fixtures
When it comes to fixtures, it’s important to consider the implications of form versus function. For instance, while a certain type of floor might work well with the aesthetic feel you have planned, remember to take into account foot traffic as well as maintenance. It’s also important to bear in mind that certain types of floors can be cold in winter, so try to opt for a balance of style and function.

2. Decor and furniture
As renovations come to a close, you’ll likely be chomping at the bit to start decorating your newly available space. But remember that decorating needn’t be done in a day. Rather than dashing to the nearest shopping centre to stock up on artwork, house plants, couches, armchairs and throws, give yourself some time to get a feel for the new space, adding items as you go so as to complete the picture. Adding your personal touch can be a rewarding experience, so aim to extend it for as long as possible – not only will you enjoy far more personal satisfaction in the process, but you’re also likely to be happier with the end result.

3. Security
Your security features need not detract from your design aesthetic. Cottage pane & transparent burglar bars, as well as aluminium security shutters, can all be easily integrated into your overall look and feel. If you’d prefer to maintain a totally clean appearance, security beams and an armed response solution will afford you adequate time to react to trespassers and seek help when needed.

Read the full article here
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Property Advice: The Benefits of Having a Prepaid Electricity Meter

More and more households have switched to prepaid meters. This is because they can monitor them every day and it gives them the freedom to create accurate budgets. There are many more reasons why going prepaid is the best solution.
https://bit.ly/3CJRhKt

: Look Harder

The following list shares common kitchen items that are a waste of your hard-earned cash.
Too Many Coffee Mugs
When it comes to kitchen clutter, coffee mugs are like a gateway drug. Sure, it starts innocently enough. You buy a cute one while on holiday. You get a few as office gifts. Then one day the shelves in your kitchen cabinets are buckling from your cup collection’s weight. Donate them to a charity shop.
Specialty Glassware
You drink a lot of different things like juice, water and wine. But do you need a special glass for each beverage? No. Multipurpose options can be used to consume all types of liquid refreshments. Consider buying a set of break-resistant stemless wine glasses. They too can be used to sip a broad range of beverages.
Appliances You Never Use
If you rarely use your waffle iron or rice cooker, consider donating it to a thrift store. These cumbersome, single-use appliances take up a lot of counter and cabinet space.
Old Kitchen Sponges
Kitchen sponges that have been in use for a while are havens for germs and bacteria. Replace them often.
Prefilled Spice Collections
Buying spices in small quantities, when you need them, will help you avoid cooking with flavourless seasonings. Remember, many fresh herbs can be frozen.
Opaque Food Storage Containers
Containers that you can’t see through are like tombs for rotting food because you forget what’s in them. Consider buying glass storage containers.
Read the full article here https://bit.ly/3CFHaX7.

Property advice: Get your home in shape before appointing an agent.

Although estate agents are always on the lookout for new stock, they appreciate being offered properties that are in good condition. S***k and span homes sell in a shorter time than dilapidated properties and are much more inclined to achieve sale prices close to their marketing prices.
https://bit.ly/3KtM2RH

𝐒𝐨𝐥𝐞 𝐦𝐚𝐧𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞! Bendor: 2 Bedroom Townhouse for Sale - R 1 350 000. Contact Ansie on 082 460 4439 for more info.

𝐁𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐨𝐫 - 𝐌𝐚𝐜𝐚𝐝𝐚𝐦𝐢𝐚 𝐑𝐞𝐭𝐢𝐫𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐕𝐢𝐥𝐥𝐚𝐠𝐞 - 𝟐 𝐁𝐞𝐝𝐫𝐨𝐨𝐦 𝐭𝐨𝐰𝐧𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐬𝐞

This Lifestyle Retirement Estate is catering for all your needs and concerns, from the perfectly healthy persons with little or no need for care to the person requiring various levels of care.

We cater for the retirement market for people older than 45 years.

All units are at ground level and wheelchair friendly. Unit size is 96 m².

This unit consists of 2 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, open plan kitchen, dining/family room, stoep and garage with electric door.

Security gate, guard and electric fence.

Phone Ansie to view this property asap!

: Choose Happiness

Security is a significant concern for most homebuyers, but it is sometimes overlooked in the hustle and bustle of moving. Shaun Rademeyer, chief executive of bond originator BetterLife Home Loans, offers some tips for ensuring that you and your newly relocated belongings are safe and secure.
• Change the locks. You don’t know who the previous owners might have given spare keys to, so it’s best to start afresh. Replace all the existing exterior locks and make sure all the keys are in your possession.
• Ensure that all sliding doors and windows have sturdy burglar bars or security gates that fit correctly in their frames.
• If there is no alarm system, have one installed before you move. If an alarm system is already installed, change the security codes and passwords.
• Ensure the alarm system has an exterior siren to alert neighbours and passers-by if the alarm goes off.
• If your new home already has CCTV, check that the system is working.
• Check to see how vulnerable the property is. Stand outside and imagine how you would get in if you were locked out. The first thing you think of is probably how a burglar would get in.
• Make sure the whole property is well-lit at night. Set timers to turn interior lights on and off when you are away to create the illusion that someone is home.
• Hang curtains or blinds before you move in so that the layout of your furniture and the location of your belongings aren’t visible from the outside.
• Introduce yourself to your new neighbours as soon as possible.
Read the full article here.
https://bit.ly/3C4oiAu

Property advice: A guide to investing in a home generator
As the ongoing risk of load shedding continues, more and more South Africans are depending on generators. https://bit.ly/3szc3c3

: Fear not

Durable, low maintenance and versatile - tiles are not just for your floors! Here are some unique ways to use tiles in your home.
Staircase Statements
Make your staircase interesting, be it indoors or outdoors, with gorgeous accent tiles. Choosing patterned tiles will make the staircase pop and become a statement leading up to the house, or another level, all on its own. Go for a bold minimalist tile or mix up the patterns with each new step.
Headboards
Classic material headboards can look grubby rather easily (especially if you have cats!). Opting for tiles instead is a practical alternative. Plus, it can be a modern touch to rustic homes or a sleek addition to contemporary rooms.
On the Ceiling
Back in another time, coffered ceilings and pressed steel ceilings were a grand and beautiful statement. In fact, if you’re lucky, you can still find some old South African houses with their original pressed steel ceilings intact! The modern alternative is taking tiles all the way up to your ceilings. It may sound a little loopy, the effect is nothing short of stunning.
Kitchen Backsplashes
Tiles are a way to bring in colour, fun shapes and a bit of character into the kitchen. The big practical plus is how easy they are to clean and how they withstand liquid. Considering how much dirt and grime can build up in a kitchen, and how many spills and oopsies it has to handle, this is a winning decision.
Fancy Fireplaces
I can’t imagine why we ever stopped surrounding our fireplaces with intricate tiling!
Read the full article here: https://bit.ly/3t0MzTZ

Property advice: 4 Hidden costs of owning a home https://bit.ly/3vceMdq