FAQ’s - PropGlance

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How long does it take?

A: For the purposes of covering all the bases, let’s look at worst case scenarios: First things first – the plot gets registered in your name. This part of the process can take 8-12 weeks, longer if you first need to apply for mortgage bond approval. During this period the plans are finalised and the council approval process is started. As soon as the plot is registered the NHBRC site enrollment is done with you as the owner-builder, this part of the process can take 2-6 weeks. Now the foundations are laid and the actual building of the house starts, we’re looking at 6 months max. Rarely has it taken so long, although without looking at your unique requirements we cannot create expectations for shorter lead times now.

Bottom line, in our experience, the whole process takes from 7 months, average 8-9 months, and can in extreme cases take up to a year. Talk to us, we can tell you where we expect delays, seasons play a role and pandemics cause havoc, it can still be a joyous process though, as long as you’re prepared for the unexpected.

Q: How do I know I'll get good value for money?

A: As for the pricing, a few points to ponder:

You pay transfer costs on the value of the plot only, and no transfer duties on purchases under R1Mil – this is a huge saving compared to a re-sale property. (*Accurate as from 2020)
Your price is calculated to cover the costs, and you buy straight from the developer. When you sell, you won’t be giving it away for free, you’ll want to make a bit of a profit, won’t you? So do other re-sellers…

Q: Any testimonials that can vouch for you?

A: We’ll do even better and introduce you to our previous clients. Some of them have already moved in, others are still in the throws of the construction process – all of them have strict instructions to be absolutely honest, we wouldn’t have it any other way.

Q: What sort of guarantees do I get?

A: We’re very glad you asked! Please find the relevant extract from the Building Agreement below.

Contractor’s Guarantees:

the Works in respect of all the latent and patent defects for a period of 3 (THREE) months from completion date, provided such defects results from defective material or workmanship.
the roof of any portion of the Works in respect of leakage for a period o 1 (ONE) year from date of completion.
all structural aspects of the Works in respect of defects therein (with the exception of hairline settlement cracks which are not guaranteed) for a period of 1 (ONE) year from the date of completion.

Over and above the Builders guarantee, every site is individually enrolled with the NHBRC, and all NHBRC Warranties apply in full.
Read more on the NHBRC here: https://www.nhbrc.org.za/warranty-cover/

Q: I'm not entirely convinced, why build?

A: Have you every walked into a house, maybe one you’re viewing as a possible buyer, and as you walk through the house you see things that make you scrunch up your face and wonder “Now why did they do that?”, or “those carpets will have to go”.

A plot-and-plan building project is customised to be exactly what you love.

Love the steel-grey porcelain floor tiles? You got it!

Like the vaulted ceilings although would prefer the trusses a different colour? No probs!

Like the woodgrain cabinets, although would prefer more under-counter drawers? Okay!

Open-plan kitchens are great, but you want a bigger scullery to hide more stuff? Done!

The garage must be deeper to make space for storage? Sure thing!

Change the shape a bit to leave room for the splash pool? Let’s design the electrics in a way that facilitates a future pool pump 😉

Q: When do I pay what?

A: All moneys are paid to the conveyancing attorneys who keep it on trust for you, in an interest-bearing trust account, and all interest goes to you. From this trust account, the attorneys will, with your permission, payout as follows:

The price of the plot is paid to the landowner on registration, just like any other property transaction.
The building agreement stipulates payment to the contractor as follows:

10% deposit on signature of the contract;
25% on completion of the floor slab (the contractor will provide the attorneys with the relevant required documentation, such as the architect/engineer certificates for the foundation, the NHBRC inspector’s sign-off as well as the council’s building inspector sign-off);
20% on completion of the brick structure to wall plate;
15% on completion of the roof structure and windows;
15% on completion of the ceiling, plastering;
10% on completion of cupboards and tiling;
5% on completion of the dwelling
(Should you have a building loan from a financial institution, they might prescribe different incremental drawings, in which case the bank’s schedule will be adhered to.)

Q: How many plots do you have available?

A: This is where we tell you to hurry and buy soon! The truth of the matter is that there is a finite number of plots available, and because of the property boom in the area, prices are rising steeply, and the more affordable plots are getting scarce. When you’re ready, call us and we’ll confirm availability for the plots that suit your needs, desires and budget.

Q: Do you have any other questions?

A: Start a conversation with us, ask!