By Sue-Ann de Wet<\/p>\n\n\n\n
When you emigrate, you often have to make big financial decisions \u2013 and one of the biggest is what to do with your property in South Africa. Should you sell and leave it behind for good, or do you hold on to that piece of \u201chome\u201d?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
For many South Africans abroad, this is not only a financial decision, but also an emotional one. AfriForum Worldwide understands that your property is often more than just an asset \u2013 it is part of your history, your family and your future plans.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
When does it make sense to sell your property?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n 1. If you are considering to possibly return<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Not all emigration is permanent. Many families keep the option open to return to South Africa one day. In such a case, a property can provide you with an \u201canchor\u201d \u2013 a place to return to without having to start all over again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n 2. If it can generate a stable income<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n If you can rent out your property, it can be a valuable source of income. For many emigrants this income helps to:<\/p>\n\n\n\n Important: Make sure you have a reliable agent in South Africa or someone who looks after the property.<\/p>\n\n\n\n 3. If the market is not favourable for selling<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Property markets move in cycles. If prices are low when you emigrate, it may make sense to wait for a better time to sell. Selling under pressure often leads to financial loss.<\/p>\n\n\n\n 4. If you have family or a support network in SA<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Having people who can manage, supervise, or even live in your property makes the decision to hold on much easier. Without local support, a property can quickly become a burden.<\/p>\n\n\n\n 5. If it forms part of your long-term investment plan<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Real estate remains a reliable long-term investment for many people. It can increase in value over time and serve as:<\/p>\n\n\n\n When should you rather sell?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n It is equally important to be honest about when it doesn’t make sense to keep the property:<\/p>\n\n\n\n Practical tips before you decide<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n There is no one-size-fits-all answer. For some South Africans abroad, holding on to their property makes sense as an investment and emotional anchor. For others, it brings unnecessary risk and stress.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The secret lies in honestly assessing your own circumstances \u2013 financial, practical and emotional.<\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n
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