Welcome to Top Floor

Because the view from up here isn’t just better — it’s insightful. Discover a blog that covers the real estate topics that matter the most to you: decor, sustainability, lifestyle, architecture, entertainment features, and the latest updates at Lew Geffen Sotheby's International Realty. Top Floor helps you elevate your home’s experience as a buyer, seller, landlord, or tenant. Stay a while for pearls of property wisdom.

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    Spotlight

    The Rise Of Innovative Sustainable Materials In Home Construction

    The construction industry has embraced sustainable materials in home construction. Here's a look at the evolution and key sustainable building materials.

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    Transfer attorneys and more: who's who in the property sale process

    Learn everything you need to know about the role of attorneys in property sales. Get to grips with the property sale process and why lawyers are involved.

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    20 Expert Buying Tips For First (Or Second) Time Home Buyers

    Buying your first or second home can be overwhelming. Here are tips before you start shopping, during the house hunt, negotiating and when making an offer.

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    Understanding property value: facts vs fiction

    Unpack common misconceptions about property value — size isn't everything! Learn how renovations, aesthetics and other factors impact your home's worth.

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    20 Ways To Make Your Home More Earth-Friendly

    Make your home earth-friendly with eco-friendly features. From embracing energy efficiency to harvesting rainwater, create a sustainable home.

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    Transform Your Space With Feature Walls

    A feature wall is a simple and cost-effective way to transform a room. Discover feature wall ideas and ways to implement them in your home.

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    What you need to know before moving to the country

    Moving to the countryside offers a slower pace and connection with nature; use this guide to be prepared for the challenges and differences you'll face.

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    Female icons who are changing the game

    As we embark on this celebratory month, let's remember that the journey is ongoing, it is the collective effort of women that propel us toward the future.

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    Unveiling the future: the top architectural trends in 2024 and beyond

    Unpack how the latest architectural trends like sustainability, smart technology, biophilic design and more, are reshaping future architectural innovation.

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    Selling your home: knowing when the time is right

    Maximise your profit by knowing the best time to sell your home. Assess market conditions, personal finances, and readiness for a smooth transition.

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    What homebuyers really want in 2024

    Uncover the key home features today's buyers want, like energy efficiency, flexible spaces and much more. Start maximising your home's appeal today.

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    Selling your home in winter: how to capitalise on the season

    Sell your home in winter successfully by highlighting cosy features, maximising natural light, and embracing seasonal charm. Use these tips for a standout, inviting home.

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    Investing in an evolving retail landscape

    Delve into lucrative retail property investments by unpacking key market trends, tenant mix, sustainability, and location for optimal returns and growth.

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    Is luxury real estate a safe investment harbour in turbulent economic times?

    Amid economic uncertainties, luxury real estate offers value retention, limited supply, and diversification for investors seeking stability and higher returns.

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    10 real estate myths busted: separating fact from fiction for buyers and sellers

    Uncover the truth behind common real estate myths! From deposits to the best time to sell, our guide helps buyers and sellers make informed, confident decisions.

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    Understanding your home’s market value: pricing strategies for sellers

    Understand your home's market value and use effective pricing strategies to sell faster and at a better price. Click here to learn more.

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    The psychology of home staging: insights from design experts

    Effective home staging taps into marketing psychology to create a memorable impact on potential buyers using various strategies. Click here to learn more.

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    What are the top three reasons to buy a beautiful home in 2024

    Discover the top three reasons to buy a beautiful home in 2024: aesthetic appeal, emotional connection, and social signalling.

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    Homebuyers' guide to luxury real estate in 2024

    Get the lowdown on luxury real estate purchases, including where to buy, the features to look for, maintenance strategies, examples and much more.

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    Designing your dream kitchen: why layout is everything

    A well-thought-out kitchen layout is essential for creating a functional, safe and inviting space.

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    What defines a luxury home in 2024?

    A luxury home in 2024 is defined by its unique blend of location, design, technology, and sustainability. Learn more.

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    The state of the luxury property market in South Africa in 2024

    Discover how the South Africa's real estate market is experiencing a shift, with property experts predicting a significant rebound in 2024.

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    Selling property to millennials - Understanding their preferences is key

    Millennials, born between 1981 - 1996, are now the largest home-buying demographic. Sellers should focus on tech, sustainability, smart home features and more.

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    Maximise your home’s potential: Tips for selling ‘as is’

    Selling your home 'as-is' can save time and money but requires strategic planning. Learn how to attract buyers, manage challenges, and maximise your home's potential.

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    Common mistakes when moving to a new home

    Moving to a new home is exciting yet stressful. Avoid common pitfalls with careful planning, timely packing, cost management, decluttering, and much more.

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    Short-term vs long-term letting – Which is the best investment option for you?

    South Africa's rental market is set to grow in 2024, offering investors potential in urban areas. Explore short-term vs. long-term letting to maximise your returns.

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    Portfolio diversification: Navigating the commercial real estate landscape

    Dive into lucrative opportunities in commercial real estate investment with portfolio diversification. Explore property types, assess risks, and more.

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    Selling: should you renovate before you put your home on the market?

    Maximise your home's value before selling! Learn the pros & cons of renovating pre-sale and discover top ROI renovations for a competitive edge.

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    Getting your home market ready – tips for sellers looking to maximise value

    Master the art of selling your home with strategic tips: from enhancing curb appeal to pricing strategically. Maximise value to attract serious buyers today.

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    Selling your home after retirement: downsizing and moving forward

    Downsizing after retirement? Discover a seamless seller's journey: from planning and decluttering to finding your perfect next home, let us guide you today.

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    A comprehensive new homeowner checklist: essential steps after transfer

    Congratulations on your new home! Navigate the transition smoothly with our checklist. From changing locks to connecting utilities, find out more here.

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    Financial fitness – A homeowner’s guide to prosperity

    Master your financial journey as a homeowner: accelerate mortgage repayment, leverage home equity, and make informed decisions for long-term prosperity.

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    Geffenitely Told

    Lew Geffen: A visionary disruptor in SA real estate, challenging norms with audacious strategies. Read more about his journey from hawker to industry captain!

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    Leveraging key global trends for investment Success

    Curious about the five key global real estate trends for success? From sustainability to tech disruption, stay ahead in a dynamic market landscape.

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    How do you know it’s a good offer? When to accept or hold out for a better one

    Boost your home's value with strategic decision-making. Assess offers effectively, consult experts, and balance market trends for optimal results.

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    Autumn projects – Get your home ready for winter

    Get your home ready for autumn! Tackle exterior maintenance, painting, and cozy upgrades for a warm and inviting winter sanctuary.

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    Key factors that influence the value of your home

    Maximise your home's value! Understand key factors like location, market trends, upgrades, and economic indicators for a successful sale.

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    Avoiding common pitfalls: a comprehensive guide for new investors

    Want to unlock success in real estate investing? Avoid these common pitfalls: rushing decisions, neglecting due diligence, and...Read here to find out more.

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    An investor’s guide to uncovering hidden gems

    Lucrative hidden gems in emerging neighbourhoods make great investments. Learn how research, local expertise and strategic planning can maximise ROI.

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    Evolving urban living: trends shaping the future of our cities

    The evolution of urban living includes sustainability, compact spaces, smart tech, inclusivity and many other factors; read here to find out more.

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    How might exchange rate volatility shape South African real estate opportunities in 2024?

    Curious how South Africa's property market may evolve in 2024? Find out how changing economic conditions, exchange rate volatility, and more all play a role.

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    The 6 hottest decor trends in 2024 and how to incorporate them into your home

    2024's top décor trends include sustainable materials, biophilic design and many others; read more to find out about the latest décor trends for your home.

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    Five golden rules for successful property investment

    Learn how to apply these with top 5 rules to achieve success in property investment: thorough research, financial prudence, diversification, and many more.

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    Strategically leveraging home equity for wealth building

    Want to unlock wealth with home equity? Invest, educate, consolidate debts and secure your future; read more to maximise your property's potential now.

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    Revitalise your home with a post-festive season house and garden spruce up

    Revitalise your home after the holidays! Declutter, deep clean, and restore with our post-festive guide. Embrace a fresh start for a tidy, stress-free space.

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    Wealth and resilience: the allure of south africa’s luxury market for high net worth individuals

    Why are HNWIs are shifting to South Africa's emerging real estate markets? Read more on attractive pricing and currency advantages to find out.

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    The art deco revival is one of 2024’s hottest decor trends

    Art Deco makes a comeback in 2024! Dive into geometric elegance, bold palettes and more. Read more on how to infuse your home with timeless sophistication.

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    Elevating small outdoor spaces through the art of micro-landscaping

    From micro-landscapes to verdant retreats, learn how to transform small outdoor spaces with vertical gardens, multifunctional furniture, and much more.

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    The home inspection checklist: ensuring your dream home is also a sound investment

    Enhance your home-buying journey with our home inspection checklist. From exterior checks to hidden issues, navigate property purchases confidently.

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    11 new year’s resolutions for homeowners

    Make this year a celebration of growth in your home by following these 11 resolutions for comfort and style; from decluttering to embracing sustainability.

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