Yes, but specific procedures apply, such as signing before a Notary Public and obtaining an Apostille, or signing at a South African embassy.

Typically, the process takes between 8 to 12 weeks from the date the Offer to Purchase is signed, though this can vary based on factors like bond approval and municipal clearance certificates.

Before a property is transferred, the seller is responsible for obtaining and paying for compliance certificates to confirm the property meets safety and legal standards. Buyers should request these certificates early in the Offer to Purchase and ensure they receive copies before the transfer process is completed.

Common Compliance Certificates Include:

Electrical Certificate
Confirms that the property’s electrical installation complies with safety standards.

Water/Plumbing Certificate
Ensures that the plumbing system is in working order and free from leaks, as per municipal regulations.

Gas Certificate
Verifies that any gas installation meets safety requirements.

Beetle Certificate
Required in certain regions, this confirms that the property is free of beetle infestations (wood-destroying insects).

Electric Fence Certificate
Ensures electric fences comply with legal and safety standards if installed on the property.

For a smooth transfer process, both buyers and sellers must ensure these certificates are obtained and valid before finalizing the sale.
 

Transfer Costs

Calculated on a sliding scale based on the property’s purchase price.
Fees are set by the Law Society.
Transfer Duty

Payable to SARS if the property value or purchase price exceeds R1,000,000.
Transfer duty is calculated on a sliding scale.
Not applicable if the seller is VAT-registered, as VAT will apply instead.
Bond Costs

Applicable when a bond is registered. Costs depend on the bond amount.
The bank charges an initiation fee, stipulated in the Letter of Acceptance.
Occupational Rent

If the buyer occupies the property before registration, they pay occupational rent as stated in the Offer to Purchase.
Levies

For Sectional Title Transfers, a levy clearance certificate fee applies.
Pro-rata monthly levies and any special levies must be settled as determined by the Body Corporate.
Rates Clearance Certificate

The municipality charges a fee for issuing a rates clearance certificate.
Homeowners’ Association Consent

If required by the Title Deed, the Homeowners’ Association will charge a consent fee for the transfer.
Agent’s Commission

Payable from the sale proceeds on transfer.
The Offer to Purchase specifies whether the commission includes or excludes VAT.
Bond Cancellation Penalty

Banks require 90 days’ notice to cancel a bond. Penalty interest applies if canceled earlier, calculated on the outstanding bond amount.
Bond Cancellation Fee

Attorneys appointed by the bank charge a fee to cancel the existing bond, even if fully paid up.
Rates and Services

Municipal rates and services must be paid up to date, including any arrears. Refunds for overpayments will be issued to the seller after transfer.
Compliance Certificates

Sellers must provide compliance certificates where applicable, including:
Electrical, Gas, Beetle, Electric Fence, Plumbing, etc.
Costs for necessary repairs are the seller’s responsibility.
Repairs and Title Deed Issues

Any repairs stipulated in the Offer to Purchase must be completed before transfer.
If the original Title Deed is lost (unbonded property), a certified copy must be obtained from the Deeds Office.
Additional Considerations

Funds may be advanced to settle rates figures, with admin fees deducted from the sale proceeds.
Understanding these costs and requirements ensures a smoother property transfer process. For professional guidance on your transfer, contact us today!

The seller's existing bond must be canceled upon transfer, often coordinated by the conveyancer with the seller's bank.