Frequently Asked Questions
Who are Sigma Investment Property?
Sigma Investment Property (Registered Company no: 5724589) is a commercial and residential property facilitation firm based in the United Kingdom. On relocating from South Africa to the UK in 1997, our founder (Bram Davies) built his portfolio in central London and then the rapidly growing city of Milton Keynes. By default he became a hands-on developer and landlord and is passionate about helping fellow South Africans achieve their UK property investment goals.
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What do we do?
We are specialists when it comes to assisting overseas clients invest in the UK commercial and residential property market. We aim to build long term relationships with our clients to span the entire life cycle of their portfolio from sourcing the property, finding and managing their first tenant to the eventual disposal of the property.
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Where do Sigma source property?
Sigma Investment Property offers a range of pre-approved new builds in London, the Home Counties and the south-east. All developments are well researched to secure the best purchase prices and ensure that they are in high growth areas with strong and sustained rental demand. Sigma offers a complete service solution to ensure a hassle-free acquisition through to the on-going rental and management of the property to its eventual disposal.
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What types of residential property do you source?
We focus on high quality apartments and 2 – 3 bedroom houses from reputable developers. For those clients whose requirements are outside of our Standard Service we provide an independent property search and acquisition service where we act solely on behalf of our clients. Operating across London and its commuter belt we have the expertise and contacts to source those elusive, very special residential properties so that our clients do not miss out on off-market opportunities.
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How does Sigma earn its fees?
Standard Service Fees - We charge a non-refundable fee comprising of the total of the reservation deposit required by the developer (which could range from £1,000 to £2,500 depending upon the site) plus the amount of £1,500 towards Sigma’s fee. When the sale completes the amount of £1,500 is deducted from our final invoice. Clients pay a facilitation fee of 3% + VAT which is calculated on the eventual sale contract price and payment is due on exchange of contracts.
Bespoke Search Fees – We charge a non-refundable Retaining Fee of £1,000 + VAT is charged, this is deducted from the final fee of 2% + VAT of the agreed purchase price. In the event of competitive bidding no fee will be payable on any element of purchase price that exceeds the asking price. Success fees are payable upon exchange of contracts.
Commercial Fees – Please visit LMDRE.co.za for more information regarding our commercial services and fees.
Why should I use Sigma?
With representation in Johannesburg, offices in Cape Town, Central London and Milton Keynes, we are able to ensure that the entire sales process is managed professionally from start to finish. We consistently provide our clients with high-quality stock and apply market-related weights and measures to help ensure they receive a well calculated return-on-investment.
Each of our investments is thoroughly researched and analysed to deliver portfolios of optimal capital values and rentals in both the domestic and commercial property sectors. We focus on clients’ requirements and maintain stringent independence throughout our contact sphere. Unlike estate agents and developers, we will always represent your best interests.
Superior customer service is the hallmark of our company and we will commit to working hard for you to retain your business.
How much money can I take out of South Africa?
All South Africans currently have an R4m allowance for off shore investment. This is an individual allowance and therefore means that a married couple can take out R8m.
How do I take my money out of South Africa?
You will need to prepare and submit a Tax Clearance Application with the South African Revenue Service. Sigma are able to refer you to recommended specialists based in South Africa who have many years’ experience in guiding clients through the entire process.
What level of lending (LTV) is available to me?
As a foreign investor you can expect to get a 70-80% LTV mortgage.
How do I get a mortgage?
Sigma works with many private banks and is able to refer clients to finance specialists who can manage the mortgage process from the point of valuation to the loan being granted. Our team are in regular daily contact with the specialists to ensure that your mortgage application is processed in a timely fashion.
How do I appoint a solicitor?
Some of our clients already have legal representation in the UK, for those that do not; we can make an introduction to either Rooks Rider LLP in London, or Austin LLP solicitors in Berkhamsted. Rooks Rider and Austin LLP have assisted many of our clients through commercial and residential sales and are well versed in professionally managing every aspect of the legal side of the sale.
What happens once I take ownership of the property?
Sigma are able to provide comprehensive letting services on your behalf through long established partnerships with companies based in London and the South East of England to source and manage the on-going tenancy of your property.
How will I hear of any new opportunities?
Subscribing to our newsletter on our website means that you will receive monthly property details. Our website is updated regularly on the Property page with current opportunities. Dependent upon client requirements and their ability to access funds quickly some opportunities are not displayed upon the website as we are able to negotiate prices that enable our clients to take advantage of off market opportunities before they reach the open market. If you have funds available in the UK and are seeking to invest within 3 months we would suggest that you contact us so that we are able to ensure that you are in a position to take advantage of these properties.
How do I contact you?
Visit our Contact Us page and fill in your contact details and one of our team will contact you shortly, alternatively contact us at the appropriate telephone number on this page.