Transfer costs catch many first-time buyers off guard. Budget 8 to 10% of the purchase price for everything outside the deposit.
Transfer duty
A SARS tax on transfers above R1.1m, charged on a sliding scale up to 13%. Below that threshold you pay none.
Conveyancing fees
Paid to the transferring attorney, set on a recommended scale by the Law Society.
Bond registration
If you are financing, the bond attorney's fees are separate from the transfer fees. Two sets of attorneys, two invoices.
Other costs
Deeds Office levy, FICA verification, postage and petties, and rates clearance.
Use the transfer cost calculator to estimate these against a specific purchase price, and confirm the final figures with your conveyancer.