Letter from the editor

I HAVE written about Alan Simmonds previously in my letters.

At 80, Alan was able to give us a concise view of world events, which he had at his fingertips.

Alan was, in his retired years, a writer and proofreader for the property section.

Having survived Covid twice, plus a heart attack and a nearfatal stabbing, he passed away unexpectedly on May 8 at the retirement home where he had been living in hard lockdown since Covid hit.

I often spoke to Alan in the past year, with weekly whatsapps and calls, and I would ask him his thoughts on the property market, with him having lived through many a boom and decline.

He said something profound which has stuck with me and which I have written about before. Property is the one thing that will remain after Covid has gone.

We have seen this in the past year – even with a total shutdown, the property industry managed to do well.

Property experts told me this week they believe we are at the very beginning of a property boom.

It’s the interest rates, they say, aiding this and they don’t predict there will be any drastic increases anytime soon.

This week Bonny Fourie investigates the rental market, which itself has seen some adjustments – and as we all know for many buying has become even cheaper than renting. This is another thing adding to a possible property upswing.

Alan taught me a lot. He will be sorely missed and his insights and wisdom will remain. Yes Al, it’s as safe as houses.

RIP old friend and beloved colleague.

Warm regards