South African property-buying FAQs - all you need to know

Buying a property is the biggest investment most families ever make, so it would be strange if you didn't have questions about the process! The Jawitz Properties team is here to share insights in order to answer some of the most commonly asked questions about buying property in South Africa.

Is it worth buying a property in South Africa?

If you're paying rent, then you're paying a fair portion of your hard-earned money to someone else, and that person is likely using your money to grow their own property portfolio. When you buy a property, on the other hand, your monthly payments build your own long-term wealth.

2025 continues to be great time to buy property for various reasons. For starters, the interest rate is on a downward trajectory, which will make your initial home loan payments more affordable. The amount that you're eligible to borrow from the bank is also higher when the interest rate is lower, giving you the best possible chance to take your first step onto the property ladder.

The banks currently have a large appetite for risk, and the popular bond originator ooba reports that over 80% of bond applications are being approved. This supportive lending environment is giving buyers greater confidence to take their next step in their property journey.

Your personal circumstances are just as important as the market conditions when it comes to investing in property. If you're financially secure and ready to put down roots, buying a property in South Africa can be one of the most rewarding and future-proof decisions you make.

What is required to buy a house in South Africa?

If you've decided to buy property in South Africa, you'll need to get an array of documents ready. You'll need a copy of your ID document and proof of income, for a start. Your proof of income will likely be your salary slip. If you're self-employed, you'll need a letter from an accounting officer confirming your income. You should also be ready to provide detailed business financial statements upon request. If you're buying property through a company, close corporate or trust, there's additional paperwork that will be required.

It is imperative that you partner with a reputable real estate agency or a bond originator that is able to guide you through the property-buying process from start to finish, ensuring you have full clarity at every step and know exactly what documentation is required and when.

How much do you need to earn to buy a property in South Africa?

The answer to that question depends entirely on what type of property you're buying! A one-bedroom apartment is likely to cost far less than a four-bedroom home, so you won't need to earn as much to buy it. The best way of establishing how much you can afford to spend is to use the calculators on the Jawitz Properties website and get preapproved for home loan finance through ooba.

How much money should I save before buying a house in South Africa?

The answer to this question requires drawing a fine line. On the one hand, you should save as much money as possible. The higher your deposit, the lower the monthly payments on your dream home will be.

On the other hand, there comes a time for many families when renting doesn't make sense anymore, when you could be using that money to pay off your own property. It's generally advisable to start looking for a home to buy when you've saved up at least 10% of the value of the property that you want to buy.

Bear in mind there are costs associated with buying property, including transfer fees (if your property is valued at over R1 210 000), conveyancing fees and bond registration fees.

Is it better to buy or rent a house in South Africa?

This depends entirely on your circumstances. If there's a chance that you may need to relocate in the foreseeable future, renting a property may be your best option. If you're working towards saving up for a deposit, an affordable rental may be best for the moment.

However, if you're settled and have some savings, buying a property can be a big step on your journey to long-term financial stability. 

If you have more questions about buying, selling or renting property in South Africa, get in touch with the Jawitz Properties team. We're here to answer your questions and help you through every step of the process of renting a property, becoming a homeowner or taking your next step up the property ladder.