When it comes to buying property, it is important to understand the different property types. Every registered property has a Title Deed which sets out the type of property and any restrictions that may apply. The question is often asked what the difference is between a sectional title and a full title.
Sectional Title is the ownership of units within a complex or development, such as an apartment block or semi-detached homes. The section owners collectively own the common property and share all rights and responsibilities such ownership entails. Sectional title properties are governed by a body corporate which is the collective name given to the owners of all units within the development.
Pros of Sectional Title
- Sectional Title owners share the responsibility in payment of the body corporate’s expenses;
- Costs are lower, as these are shared between all owners;
- Sectional title units are very popular in the rental market and are usually leased out easily;
Cons
- Owners cannot extend sections without the permission of all the other owners;
- All owners are jointly responsible for any expenses and debts incurred by the body corporate. Which means if one of the members of the body corporate does not contribute in the form of a monthly levy, it affects you too!
- There are always rules to adhere to;
With regards to Full Title, the owner takes on the entire financial responsibility for the property. This could mean that maintenance costs are higher, however, Full Title properties have more independence and fewer rules to abide by. Examples of full title properties are free-standing houses and clusters, even if it is situated in an estate or smallholdings.
When deciding to purchase your next property, feel free to contact the expert sales team at Fitzanne Sales on sales@fitzanne.co.za