Myths Busted 

❌ “You must have a UK passport to buy in the UK.”

Wrong. Foreign nationals, including South Africans, can legally purchase UK property in their personal names or via a UK company. No residency or visa required.

❌ “Offshore property investments are always high risk.”

Depends on the structure and location. UK property offers strong legal protections, stable title registration, and established developer due diligence. The key is to avoid speculative schemes, unknown locations, or unrealistic returns.

❌ “If I rent it out, I’ll get taxed twice.”

Not if structured properly. The UK–SA Double Taxation Agreement prevents this. You’ll declare income in both countries but only pay once, offsetting UK tax against your South African liability.

❌ “It’s better to go direct to the developer.”

Not true. Developers don’t offer discounts for buying direct—in fact, they often prefer working through introducers like Horizon, who pre-qualify serious investors and ensure the process is professionally managed. Our service costs you nothing, as we’re paid by the developer, and in many cases, we can negotiate better pricing or exclusive incentives on your behalf. Far from adding cost, working with Horizon gives you access to the right property, proper legal support, and a better deal overall.

Regulatory Advice

Always:

• Transfer funds from a South African account in your name

• Use FICA-compliant channels

• Retain all SARS and SARB approvals for audit purposes

• Use staged payments (e.g. 10% or 20% deposit, balance on completion). 

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The Role of Legal and Tax Professionals

Cross-border investing without professional support is risky. Horizon introduces you to advisors who specialise in:

• Property conveyancing for international buyers

• UK tax compliance for non-resident landlords

• Optimal holding structures (e.g. UK company vs personal ownership)

Horizon itself does not offer legal or tax advice—but we will ensure you’re working with the right people who do.

Red Flags to Avoid

South African investors have been burned in the past—often by slick marketing and poor transparency. Here’s what to avoid:

🚩 Guaranteed returns – No legitimate developer offers fixed “guaranteed” yields. Yields are projections, not promises.

🚩 Pressure to act fast – Reputable providers allow time for due diligence and independent legal advice.

🚩 Upfront fees paid offshore – Avoid paying anything to unregulated parties or agents.

🚩 Agents who also handle your money – Keep custody with regulated UK solicitors. Never send funds via an introducer like Horizon.

🚩 No mention of tax or legal processes – Anyone ignoring compliance is putting your money at risk.

Final Word:

Why South Africans Are Right to Be Cautious

There is nothing naïve about asking hard questions. UK property is a strong asset class—but it’s not immune to bad actors or misrepresentation.

Horizon exists to:

• Filter quality from fluff

• Pair clients with trustworthy UK developers

• Ensure you remain in control of your decisions

• Provide free education and zero pressure