27/10/2026
PROPERTY MYTHS: JUST BECAUSE EVERYONE SAYS IT, DOESN'T MAKE IT TRUE.
Property advice often comes from friends, family, neighbours or even someone who has bought and sold several houses.
But property law isn't always as straightforward as people think.
Let's challenge a few common assumptions:
MYTH 1: “Once I've signed, the deal is done.”
Signing a sale agreement is significant, but suspensive conditions and other contractual requirements may still need to be fulfilled.
MYTH 2: “If I have the keys, the property is mine.”
Occupation and registered ownership are not necessarily the same thing.
MYTH 3: “If I own the property, I can do whatever I want with it.”
Zoning, title conditions, servitudes and other applicable restrictions may affect how a property can be used.
MYTH 4: “If everyone agrees verbally, we don't need to worry about the paperwork.”
Certain property transactions and agreements must meet specific legal formalities. Verbal assurances should never be assumed to replace the required documentation.
The lesson? Property decisions deserve more than a “someone told me” approach.
Before you rely on advice, make sure it applies to your circumstances and that you understand the legal position.
At Viljoen Wells Inc., we believe better property decisions begin with better questions.
What's the biggest property myth you've heard? Share it in the comments — let's separate fact from fiction.
