A House with a Flatlet: Income or Extra Work?

By Tersia de Beer | Property practitioner in Kroonstad, Africa Estate

A flatlet can help pay the bond, if it is set up right. In Uitsig and Suidrand many houses have a separate flatlet. For a buyer it is either extra income, or room for the parents or a child coming home. But it also brings work. Here is what to check.

Privacy and access

Does the flatlet have its own entrance, or does the tenant walk through your garden? Its own entrance and its own parking make the difference between a good tenant and an awkward neighbour.

Approved plans

A flatlet built without approved plans can become a problem at the bank, and later when you sell. Ask for the municipality's plans before you count on the rental income.

The real income

Budget for months without a tenant, for repairs, and for the water and power the flatlet uses if it is not separately metered. The rent that is left is the real income.

Or for the family

Many Kroonstad families buy a house with a flatlet for parents who want to be close, or a child coming back after studying. Then privacy and a single storey count for more than the rent.

• Own entrance and own parking?
• Approved plans?
• Separate water and power meters?
• Realistic rent after empty months and repairs?

The lease

Always sign a written lease, with the rent, the deposit, who pays for water and power, and the notice period. A good lease protects both sides and makes a difficult conversation later much easier. Keep the deposit in a separate account. Also ask your insurer whether the flatlet is covered by your building insurance, and whether a tenant needs his own contents cover.

I can pick out the homes with flatlets for sale in Kroonstad now. See homes in Kroonstad or ask me.

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