Despite last month’s interest rate cut, increased home loan applications on the back of attractive banking offers and intensified bargain hunting opportunities, Bondspark CEO, Marcel du Toit, warns that consumers need to remain conservative when considering whether to buy or sell.
Bondspark CEO, Marcel du Toit says that there are several reasons behind the overall improvement of the local property sector this quarter.
He says that last month’s rate cut by the South African Reserve Bank (SARB) by 25 basis points to 6,5% was one of the biggest influencers, bringing a much-needed reprieve for existing and new homeowners.
This was met with innovative home loan offers from local banks and an increase in ‘buy to rent’ opportunities in the mid-priced segment.
“The rate cut monthly savings may seem insignificant, but it’s the long term saving that is important to note. For the average home buyer, it could currently mean one year less on the overall debt.
This is a win and more importantly shows that we are moving in the right direction,” says du Toit.
In its August Property Barometer, FNB Economics reported a more stabilised property market following a generally slower trend in the first half of the year.
Du Toit says that this corresponds with Bondspark numbers: “We have noted an 18% increase in home loan applications and an estimated 82% approval rate. In addition, the market also continues to favour buyers with an increase in bargaining hunting in higher priced segments.”
Du Toit says that while the upswing is positive, there are sobering reasons behind this increased activity.
Houses within the high net worth segment, typically valued at over R3,6m are being sold below the initial asking price: “An estimated 14% reduction against the asking price and a resulting slightly faster sales cycle of 19 weeks, proves the bargain hunting theory, but also the state of the market.
This, in turn, has provided a significant opportunity for the middle-income first-time buyer, as well as those looking for property investments.”
Local banks are also targeting buyers with several attractive home loan options. On the back of a very slow period, this could seem extremely attractive to first-time buyers, but du Toit says caution is required: “While it is great to see increased market activity, buyers need to pay attention to the offers made and question whether it is the best approach before fully committing.”
In an effort to increase market share, local banks are becoming increasingly creative with their home loan offers, some offering to not only cover the deposit, but costs too. According to Bondspark this could cost the consumer in the long run and applicants must be very circumspect when accepting these offers.
Romy Zwiers, Head of Marketing, Bondspark: “We believe that it is still more beneficial to save for a deposit.
The long-term cost of a 100% bond is high due to the fact that current house prices are behind the rate of inflation.
By having a deposit, you will have a better chance of qualifying for a bond, your monthly home loan will be more affordable, and the interest paid will be reduced.”
She says that these buyers essentially become a lower-risk borrower for the banks, which can only bode well for any future financial obligations: “There is added risk as a buyer if you don’t pay a deposit. If something unforeseen happens and you are forced into selling, the structure of your debt will greatly impact the outcome.
If you are bonded to maximum there is a good possibility that you could owe more than what your property is worth.”
For more information visit www.bondspark.co.za or contact [email protected].