Karin Harcourts Zululand

20/07/2026

Your ceiling often becomes the standard of the people you spend the most time with.

When everyone around you plays small, playing small starts to feel normal.

Find people who make your goals look achievable instead of unrealistic.

Borrow their perspective before you borrow their results.

Listen closely.

Level up.

The right room won't do the work for you, but it can completely change what you believe is possible.

20/07/2026

19/07/2026

What Inspections Should Landlords Do?

Owning a rental property is an investment, and like any investment, it needs regular attention to protect its value.

One of the biggest mistakes landlords make is waiting until a tenant moves out before checking on the condition of the property.
Regular inspections aren't about "checking up" on tenants; they're about maintaining your investment, identifying maintenance issues early, and ensuring everyone is meeting their responsibilities.

So, what inspections should landlords be doing?

✅ Entry Inspection
✅ Routine Inspections
✅ Maintenance Inspections
✅ Exit Inspection

Explained:

✅ Entry Inspection
Before a new tenant moves in, conduct a thorough inspection together. Take photographs and document the property's condition in detail.
This protects both landlord and tenant by creating a clear record of the property's condition at the start of the lease.

✅ Routine Inspections
Routine inspections should generally be carried out every 3 to 6 months (depending on your lease agreement and local regulations).

During these inspections, look out for:

--> General cleanliness and property care
--> Leaking taps or plumbing issues
--> Lights, switches and electrical concerns
--> Damaged windows, doors or locks
--> Garden maintenance (if applicable)
--> Signs of pests or termites
--> Damp, mould or water damage
--> Air conditioners and other fixtures needing maintenance

The goal isn't to find fault; it's to catch small problems before they become expensive ones.

✅ Maintenance Inspections
Whenever maintenance is reported, inspect the issue promptly.

Sometimes what appears to be a small leak can become major water damage if ignored. Responding quickly saves money and keeps tenants happy.

✅ Exit Inspection
When a tenant vacates, compare the property's condition to the original entry inspection report.

This helps determine whether any damages go beyond normal wear and tear and whether repairs need to be deducted from the deposit.

Why Regular Inspections Matter?

Regular inspections help you:
✔ Protect your investment
✔ Prevent costly repairs
✔ Maintain the property's value
✔ Build positive relationships with tenants
✔ Ensure lease conditions are being followed
✔ Keep your property safe and compliant

Most tenants actually appreciate landlords who stay on top of maintenance because it shows you care about providing a quality home.

A Few Golden Rules! NB!

Remember:
🔹 Always give proper notice before an inspection.
🔹 Respect your tenant's privacy.
🔹 Be professional and courteous.
🔹 Document everything with notes and photos.

A well-managed property benefits everyone involved.

Karin van der Watt

Property Practitioner | Harcourts Zululand
"Helping landlords protect their investments while creating great rental experiences for tenants."

15/07/2026

Ever heard of Rat Park?

How many of our own unhealthy habits [addictions] are really about the habit, and how many are about loneliness, stress, isolation, or simply trying to escape?

This experiment completely changed the way many people think about addiction.

Scientists gave two groups of rats access to morphine-laced water.
The first group lived alone in tiny, empty cages.
The second group lived in what can only be described as a rat paradise, friends, toys, space to explore, good food, and plenty of entertainment.

Guess which rats drank far less morphine?
The ones that had a life worth living.

Turns out, sometimes the opposite of addiction isn't just sobriety... it's connection.

It makes you wonder...

How many of our own unhealthy habits are really about the habit, and how many are about loneliness, stress, isolation, or simply trying to escape?

Maybe we're all just looking for our own version of Rat Park.
Food for thought. 💭

Simon Sinek advice on leadership, friendship, purpose, and the role...

13/07/2026

Karin - 060 325 2214