Many buyers budget carefully for a deposit and bond repayments, only to be surprised by conveyancing costs. These fees are separate from the purchase price, and without planning for them, a deal can stall. Understanding these costs upfront helps you avoid last-minute financial stress.

What Are Conveyancing Costs?

Conveyancing costs cover the legal work of transferring property ownership. They include:

• Attorney’s fees: Charged for drafting documents, liaising with banks, and registering the transfer.
• Deeds Office fees: Payable for lodging documents at the Deeds Office.
• Transfer duty: A tax payable to SARS (unless you qualify for exemption).
• VAT: Payable if the seller is VAT registered.

What Determines the Amount?

The biggest factor is the purchase price. Attorney fees are charged on a sliding scale based on property value, while SARS transfer duty increases with higher brackets. Municipal rates clearance figures and other certificates may also add to the final bill.

What Buyers Don’t Always Know

• Conveyancing costs must be paid in cash before registration; they cannot be added to your bond.
• Sellers sometimes forget that they also have costs — like obtaining clearance certificates and settling municipal rates upfront.
• First-time buyers may qualify for FLISP funding (see Week 6) to help offset some costs, but this must be applied for early. 

Tips to Manage Costs 

• Request a pro forma invoice from your attorney before the process begins.
• Budget an additional 8–10% of the purchase price for legal and transfer-related costs.
• Work with attorneys who explain costs clearly to avoid hidden surprises.

Final Word

Conveyancing costs are not an afterthought — they are an essential part of the property transfer journey. By planning, you can manage your budget and move into your new home with peace of mind.

For transparent, reliable guidance on conveyancing costs, trust NS Xulu Attorneys to walk you through every detail. Visit our site and work out your transfer/bond costs.

By Nompumelelo Xulu