Insights

Insights - News Blog

Hannah van Deventer's Articles

First Home Finance (FLISP): What Every First-Time Buyer Should Know

First Home Finance (formerly FLISP) helps South African first-time buyers. Learn who qualifies, how it works, restrictions on the title deed, and why timelines for approval and payout can take months.

Why Most Prequalification Certificates Are Useless - And How To Get One That Matters

Not all prequalification certificates are equal. Learn why most are useless, how banks calculate affordability using Debt Service Ratio and assets, and how Phoenix Bonds gives you a strategy, not just a number.

The Biggest Missed Opportunity in Home Loans: Future Rental Income

Future rental income is one of the most overlooked factors in home loan applications. Learn how South African banks assess it, why it must be a full property, and how Phoenix Bonds uses it to boost affordability.

The Hidden Fees of Home Loans: Where Banks Really Make Their Money

Think your home loan savings come from a lower interest rate? Think again. Banks cash in on hidden fees and overpriced building insurance. Phoenix Bonds shows you how to cut costs.

Why Foreigners Are Treated Like Second-Class Buyers in South Africa

Are foreign buyers treated unfairly in South Africa’s property market? Discover the truth about the 50% deposit rule, banking bias, and how Phoenix Bonds helps international buyers secure home loans.

The Property Economy: Insights by Dr Botha (Sep 2025)

South Africans are starting to feel a little financial relief. The latest Household Resilience Index shows families are stronger than before, while booming exports and record trade surpluses are boosting the economy. In his monthly update for Phoenix Bonds, economist Dr. Roelof Botha explains what this means for interest rates, affordability, and your property journey.

How the Repo Rate Influences Prime – And Where Banks Really Get Their Money to Lend

When the South African Reserve Bank (SARB) announces changes to the repo rate, the media goes into overdrive: “Interest rates hiked!” or “Rate cuts bring relief!” But what does this really mean for your home loan - and do banks really borrow money from SARB before lending it to you? Let’s break it down...

Understanding Home Loan Interest Rates in South Africa – And How Low You Can Go

When shopping for a home loan, most buyers hope to “negotiate the best rate” — and rightly so. Even a small discount on your interest rate can save you hundreds of thousands of rand over the life of your bond. But how do banks actually decide what rate to offer, and why are there limits to how low they can go? Let’s unpack the reality.

Identity Fraud in South Africa: Why You Should Check Your Credit Before Buying a Home

Identity fraud is a growing problem in South Africa, and unfortunately many people only discover it when it’s already caused serious damage. At Phoenix Bonds, we’ve seen cases where clients only realise something is wrong when they apply for a home loan and the bank pulls their credit report.

How to Talk to Buyers About Using a Bond Originator

As an estate agent, you’re often the first person a buyer turns to when making one of the biggest financial decisions of their life. And while buyers may feel confident approaching their own bank directly, or even another bond originator, part of your role is helping them make the smartest choice. Here’s how to confidently explain why working with a Phoenix Bonds broker is the best move for every situation.

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