Cape Town - The City of Cape Town urged potential buyers of state-subsidised (RDP) houses on Monday to make sure that the properties they are buying can be sold legally.
The City urged residents to be careful as there are restrictions on the sale of these houses – especially within the first few years following the acquisition of the property by beneficiaries.
In accordance with the National Housing Act, the sale of an RDP house is forbidden for eight years after the beneficiary has acquired the house, unless the Western Cape government has approved the sale.
"Illegal sales are unfortunately taking place outside of the official Deeds Office process of transfer and registration of title. This is happening without the City or the relevant authority being involved," said the City’s Mayoral Committee Member for Human Settlements, Councillor Benedicta van Minnen.
"Every so often we receive heart-breaking reports of a buyer who has paid money for an RDP house which it turns out may not be sold as it is in the prohibited period. Only properties that are outside of the eight-year pre-emptive restriction period can be sold or advertised for selling legally."
Van Minnen urged those who receive subsidised housing to view their home as a great asset. To this end, the City hosts educational sessions with its beneficiaries to explain the benefit of owning and retaining an asset.
"I would advise residents that if you are looking into buying an RDP house, you make sure that the property is not subject to the restrictive conditions and, if in doubt, approach your local housing office or the Western Cape government’s Housing Tribunal for more information," said Van Minnen.