Navigating real estate

In a recent interview with Helena Marungu of Deka Realtors, real estate agent Marungu shared her journey and provided insights on key aspects of the real estate market.

"My real estate journey actually started in 2021. I wrote my test – I first failed, went for a second opportunity and I passed. Prior to doing real estate, I did nursing until I decided to venture into the real estate industry because I felt like I am good with business and I am passionate about business," Marungu said.



Strategic considerations

For first-time buyers, Marungu emphasised the importance of viewing real estate as a long-term investment, urging them to carefully assess their budget and consider the specific needs of their family members before choosing a property. These strategic considerations, she explained, are crucial for making informed decisions.

"Real estate is a long-term investment and it is an asset that you acquire, and explaining that to clients hoping to acquire property is the first thing I would do. Secondly, it is important that they check on their budget before choosing an area, as well as consider the members of their family’s needs in order to be strategic about where they want to purchase a home," advised Marungu.

Marungu clarified the distinction between "including costs" and "excluding costs" transactions.

"If a real estate transaction or deal is said to be 'including costs,' it means that all associated expenses related to the property purchase are considered part of the deal. Conversely, if a real estate transaction is said to be 'excluding costs,' it means that certain expenses are not included in the listed price," she explained in an interview with Namibia Media Holdings.



Full-time occupation

Addressing aspiring realtors, Marungu offered candid advice, highlighting the challenges of the profession.

"Real estate is not an easy feat, and I would love to advise the upcoming realtors to not take on real estate as a side hustle but to take it on as a full-time career so that you can be focused... You need to really love real estate for you to make a successful career out of it, because you will be working with many different people all the time," she cautioned.

For tenants seeking rental properties, Marungu outlined the necessary documentation, including banking statements and other documents.

"They should have their three-month banking statement, a copy of their ID, and payslip. Foreigners would need a copy of their visa documents, while students would need their proof of registration, their ID copy and a proof of source of income," detailed Marungu.

She also provided details about new developments, specifically non-existing houses in Otjiwarongo’s Extension 13, with prices ranging from N$600 000 to N$1 million, covering two or three-bedroom structures.

In Windhoek, Marungu highlighted available rental properties, providing specifics on a three-bedroom home in Otjomuise Extension 5 and another in Windhoek North. She urged potential clients to reach out via Facebook for more information on Deka Realtors or contact them at +264 85 129 9265.