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May 26, 2026 Sectional Title vs Freehold: What Atlantic Seaboard Buyers Should Know

Much of the Atlantic Seaboard's prime stock is apartments, which means many buyers here will be purchasing sectional title rather than freehold. Understanding the difference helps you buy with confidence. Freehold means you own the property and the land it stands on outright. You are responsible for all maintenance, rates and upkeep, and you have the most freedom to alter the property, subject to municipal approvals. Freestanding homes are typically freehold. Sectional title means you own a defined section, your apartment, plus an undivided share of the common property such as entrances, lifts, gardens, and the building structure. Ownership comes with membership of the body corporate, which manages the scheme. A few things sectional title buyers should factor in: • Levies. You will pay a monthly levy toward the running and maintenance of common areas, and often a contribution to a reserve fund for larger future repairs. Ask for the scheme's financials and levy history. • Rules and governance. Schemes have conduct and management rules covering pets, short-term letting, renovations and more. Read them before you buy so there are no surprises. • The reserve fund and building condition. A well-run body corporate with a healthy reserve fund is a genuine asset. Ask about planned maintenance, any special levies, and the age and condition of key building systems. • CSOS. Sectional title schemes fall under the Community Schemes Ombud Service, which provides dispute resolution and oversight. Neither option is inherently better. It comes down to lifestyle, budget and how much responsibility you want. A lock-up-and-go apartment suits a very different buyer to a family home with a garden. When we show you a sectional title property, we will help you ask the right questions of the body corporate so you know exactly what you are buying into. Reach out and we will talk you through it.

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