Property Cost Calculator

Calculate accurate monthly costs, transfer duties, and once-off fees for any South African property. Know exactly what you'll pay before making an offer.

Accurate SA Calculations
Transfer Duties Included
Complete Cost Breakdown

Understanding Your Property Costs

Transfer Duty

Government tax on property ownership transfer. Progressive rates apply based on purchase price. First-time buyers benefit from a threshold exemption.

  • Rates are progressive and increase with property value
  • Calculated automatically in the calculator above
  • Exemptions available for properties below certain thresholds
  • Rates updated annually by National Treasury

Transfer Attorney Fees

Legal fees for transferring property ownership to your name. Includes conveyancing, deeds office registration, and documentation:

  • Attorney professional fees (scale-based on property value)
  • VAT at current rate
  • Deeds office registration fees
  • Document preparation, title searches, and admin
  • Fees increase progressively with property price
  • Calculated automatically in calculator above

Bond Registration Costs

Costs to register your home loan with the Deeds Office (only if financing with bond):

  • Bond attorney fees (separate from transfer attorney)
  • Deeds office registration fees
  • Bank initiation fees (typically R5,000-R7,000)
  • Document preparation
  • Total typically R25,000 - R45,000

Monthly Bond Repayment

Your home loan repayment depends on three factors:

  • Loan amount: Purchase price minus deposit
  • Interest rate: Current prime lending rate (varies - adjust slider in calculator)
  • Loan term: Typically 20-30 years
  • Includes principal and interest
  • Longer terms = lower monthly payment, but more total interest paid

Smart Buying Tips

Budget for 10-20% Deposit

While 100% bonds exist, a 10-20% deposit typically secures better interest rates and approval odds. Larger deposits reduce your monthly repayments and total interest paid over the loan term.

Don't Forget Once-Off Costs

Budget for transfer duties, attorney fees, and bond registration costs. Many buyers overlook these significant once-off expenses and face cash flow problems at transfer. Use the calculator above for accurate estimates.

Monthly Costs Beyond Bond

Remember to budget for rates, water, electricity, levies (for complexes or estates), insurance, and maintenance. These ongoing costs significantly impact affordability and vary by property type and location.

Rule of Thumb: 30% Income

Total housing costs shouldn't exceed 30% of gross monthly income. Banks typically lend 3-4x annual salary. Calculate affordability before property hunting.

Ready to Start Your Property Journey?

Download Property Inspector to assess properties professionally and avoid costly surprises

Download Free App