In recent weeks Tony Clarke, MD of Rawson Properties, has hinted in several statements that the group is doing surprisingly well. This week he announced that September had been the best month ever in Rawson Properties 28 year history.
Rawsons had, he said, achieved a sales turnover 35% up on the previous month and just over 50% up in the same month last year.
Asked if this reflects the position of the housing market nationally, Clarke said that it appears that Rawsons is forging ahead where others are showing either no or less exciting improvement.
'Countrywide residential sales in September were 7,5% up on those of August but the plain truth is that the consumer is still being 'beaten up' by the economy and all sales teams are still having to fight against doubts and uncertainties in buyers minds '“ some fear that a second dip could still happen. Others, it seems, are worried about their employment prospects. Growth in the market is still below what SA '“ and the home marketing sector '“ should be experiencing'
His own view, said Clarke, is that the market has now very definitely turned the corner, the economy is sound and is set for a steady, ongoing improvement '“ with house prices rising by some 8% in the next year.
'At the lower end of the market, we are experiencing the kind of optimism that should also be more evident elsewhere on account of the low interest rates and affordable prices.
'First time homebuyers sales have risen by over 20% this year and it is pleasing to note that the average size of the units bought has risen from 48m² to 56m²,' said Clarke.
Rawson Properties expansion continues along the lines laid down for it last year and new franchises such as four recently signed up in KwaZulu Natal, had made a small contribution to the groups improved September turnover.
Rawsons good sales, he added, should not lead sellers to thinking that they can now increase their prices.
'It is,' he said, 'still a buyers market '“ which is why those are sitting back adopting a wait and see position are missing out on really competitive prices'
