If you’re reading this letter, it means you have made it here despite what was probably one of the most tumultuous years, not just globally and economically but also in our individual lives.
There is no doubt that we are not the same people who began the year almost 12 months ago.
We have learnt about overcoming fear, about our inner resilience and about how strong we
truly are.
The property market itself has been on a rollercoaster ride that saw a mere three properties sold nationally in one of the months of lockdown.
We witnessed estate agent bosses work through the night, trying to lobby government to open their industry and we saw a feisty woman –
Vuyiswa Mutshekwane
– take the helm of the National Property Professionals Council, newly formed during hard lockdown.
The fight to open up the industry was tireless and when it did open, some of the best months for sales were recorded, proving that property remains one of the most resilient assets.
We have seen more first-time home buyers enter the market, blessed by lower interest rates,
and we have seen some interesting trends... with many venturing further away from the cities.
Read the latest Property360 digital magazine below
It is that time when many will look back over the year, trying to make sense of it all. Some of us will be facing a more reserved festive season, with slashed salaries and job losses.
And yet, the spirit of this season is of giving and it is so heartening to see estate agencies,
companies and individuals link up with NGOs to provide meals, shelter, clothing and love to those most hard hit by the pandemic.
For every dark cloud we have faced, we have been given the opportunity to rise above and see the light again.
You have all inspired me this year with your kindness, strength and resilience. I have
great admiration for you and your families, especially the estate agent bosses, who went over and above to keep things ticking in hard times.
My team and I would like to thank all of you for your support this year. We wish you a safe,
blessed and happy year-end and a joyous start to the new year.
Warmest regards, until 2021
Stay safe
Vivian Warby
vivian.warby@inl.co.za