Service
Cost Calculator
Buying property is one of the most important financial decisions you’ll make, and understanding the full cost involved is essential before taking the next step. Our Transfer Cost, Bond Cost, and Bond Repayment Calculator is designed to give you a clear, accurate estimate of what you can expect to pay when purchasing property in South Africa.
Whether you are a first-time buyer, investor, or upgrading to your next home, this tool helps you plan with confidence by breaking down all the key costs involved in the transaction.
COST CALCULATOR
FAQs
What costs are involved when buying a property?
When purchasing a property in South Africa, buyers should budget for several costs in addition to the purchase price. These typically include transfer duty (where applicable), conveyancing fees, Deeds Office fees, and bond registration costs if the property is financed through a bank. The exact costs depend on the purchase price of the property and whether a mortgage bond is being registered. Our online calculator provides an estimate to help buyers plan ahead.
What are conveyancing fees?
Conveyancing fees are the legal fees charged by the conveyancing attorneys for handling the transfer of ownership of the property. These fees cover services such as preparing legal documents, liaising with banks and municipalities, obtaining compliance certificates, and registering the transfer in the Deeds Office. Conveyancing fees in South Africa are generally guideline-based according to property value, but may vary slightly between firms.
What is transfer duty and when is it payable?
Transfer duty is a tax payable to SARS when property is transferred from one owner to another. It is usually paid by the buyer. Transfer duty is calculated on a sliding scale based on the purchase price of the property, although properties below a certain threshold may be exempt. If the seller is VAT registered and the transaction attracts VAT, transfer duty will not apply.
What costs does the seller usually pay?
Sellers typically pay for estate agent commission, compliance certificates (such as electrical, plumbing, beetle or gas certificates where applicable), and the municipal rates clearance figures required for transfer. Sellers generally do not pay transfer costs unless otherwise agreed in the sale agreement.
What are bond registration costs?
If a buyer finances the purchase through a bank loan, a mortgage bond must be registered over the property. Bond registration costs include bond attorney fees, Deeds Office charges, and bank initiation fees. These costs are separate from the transfer costs and are payable to the attorneys appointed by the bank.
Are transfer costs paid before the property is registered?
Yes. Transfer costs and bond registration costs are usually payable in advance, before the property can be lodged in the Deeds Office for registration. The transferring attorneys will provide the buyer with a detailed pro forma statement reflecting all costs payable.
Can transfer costs be included in my home loan?
In most cases, banks require buyers to pay transfer costs from their own funds. However, some banks may offer additional finance options depending on the buyer’s financial profile. Buyers should discuss this with their bond originator or financial institution.
How accurate is a transfer cost calculator?
A transfer cost calculator provides a useful estimate based on the property purchase price and whether a bond is registered. However, the final figures may vary slightly depending on factors such as municipal charges, bank requirements, or additional certificates that may be required for the transaction.
Who appoints the conveyancing attorney?
In most property transactions, the seller appoints the transferring attorney. However, the buyer is responsible for paying the transfer costs. The buyer’s bank will separately appoint attorneys to register the mortgage bond if finance is involved.
When should I calculate my transfer costs?
It is advisable to estimate your transfer costs before making an offer to purchase, so that you fully understand the financial commitment involved in the property transaction. Our calculator is designed to give buyers a quick and reliable estimate during the early stages of the process.