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Real Estate in South Africa | Expat Exchange
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Real Estate in South Africa

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Universal Tax Professionals
Universal Tax Professionals
Universal Tax Professionals

By Betsy Burlingame

Last updated on Jun 25, 2023

Summary: An expat looking to buy a home in South Africa should begin by researching the different areas of the country and deciding which area best suits their needs. They should then contact a local real estate agent to help them find a suitable property. Homes in South Africa typically include amenities such as air conditioning, a kitchen, a living room, and a bathroom. Some homes may also include a garden, a pool, or a garage. Foreigners are allowed to purchase property in South Africa, but there are certain restrictions in place. For example, foreigners are not allowed to purchase agricultural land, and they must obtain permission from the Minister of Home Affairs before they can purchase a property.

How do I find a place to live in South Africa?

We asked expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:

"One of the best ways to find a place to live in South Africa is to use online resources such as property websites, classifieds, and real estate agents. You can also search for rental properties in newspapers and magazines. Additionally, you can ask friends and family for recommendations or contact local real estate agents for assistance. It is important to research the area you are interested in living in, as well as the cost of living, to ensure you find the best place for your needs," explained one expat living in South Africa.

"Wanted somewhere that was close to the beach (5 mins away) somewhere not too close to the city but not too far (15min drive away from city central) and somewhere that felt safe. Table View has all that going for it and I really love it here," said one person in Cape Town.

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What is a typical expat home or apartment like in South Africa?

"Expat homes and apartments in South Africa tend to be modern and comfortable, with many featuring open-plan living areas, modern kitchens, and spacious bedrooms. Many expat homes and apartments also come with amenities such as swimming pools, gardens, and security systems. Expat homes and apartments in South Africa are typically located in secure, gated communities, providing a safe and comfortable environment for expats to live in," said one person in South Africa.

"Single family home in a gated community. It is very typical for most expats. In fact, I have been told that the majority that live in there are expats. Bacause it is in a secured community, our child can walk and play in freely. But, there are too many walls with the community," said one expat who made the move to Johannesburg.

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What is the average cost of housing in South Africa?

If you are thinking about moving to South Africa, cost of living in probably a key consideration. Expats commented about the cost of housing:

"Housing costs are much lower than in the U.S. I do not know the average cost," said one expat in Johannesburg.

"The average cost of housing in South Africa varies greatly depending on the location and type of housing. Generally, the cost of housing in South Africa is higher than in many other African countries, with prices ranging from affordable to expensive. In major cities such as Johannesburg and Cape Town, the cost of housing is typically higher than in smaller towns and rural areas," remarked one member in South Africa.

Should I buy or rent a home in South Africa?

If you have not spent a lot of time in South Africa, you should rent before even thinking about buying. We asked expats there about the buy vs. rent decision:

"Buying a home in South Africa can be a great investment, as property prices are generally on the rise. However, it is important to consider your financial situation and lifestyle before making a decision. Renting a home can be a great option if you are not ready to commit to a long-term purchase, or if you are looking for a more flexible living situation. It is also important to consider the cost of living in the area you are considering, as this can have a significant impact on your budget. Ultimately, the decision to buy or rent a home in South Africa should be based on your individual needs and preferences," said one person in South Africa.

What do I need to know when buying property in South Africa?

When we asked expats what advice they would give a foreigner before buying a property in South Africa, they said:

"1. It is important to research the area you are looking to buy in, as well as the local market, to ensure you are making a sound investment. 2. It is also important to get a professional property valuation to ensure you are paying a fair price for the property. 3. You should also consider the costs associated with buying a property, such as transfer fees, legal fees, and bond registration fees. 4. It is also important to ensure that the property is free from any encumbrances, such as mortgages or liens. 5. You should also be aware of the different types of property ownership available in South Africa, such as freehold, leasehold, and sectional title. 6. It is also important to be aware of the different taxes and levies that may be applicable to the property, such as transfer duty, capital gains tax, and property rates. 7. Finally, it is important to ensure that you have the necessary documents in place, such as a valid title deed, to ensure the property is legally yours," said one person in South Africa.

Are foreigners allowed to own property in South Africa?

When we asked expats what advice they would give a foreigner before buying a property in South Africa, they said...

"Yes, foreigners are allowed to own property in South Africa. The South African government has put in place a number of regulations to ensure that foreign ownership of property is regulated and monitored. Foreigners are required to obtain permission from the South African Reserve Bank before they can purchase property in South Africa. This permission is granted on a case-by-case basis and is subject to certain conditions. In addition, foreigners are required to pay a transfer duty when purchasing property in South Africa," explained one expat in South Africa.

What appliances are typically included in a rental?

We asked foreigners in South Africa what appliances are typically included in a rental, and, if there is anything else included or not included that a newcomer would not expect. Replies included:

"In South Africa, rental properties typically include a refrigerator, stove, oven, and washing machine. Other common appliances may include a dishwasher, microwave, and air conditioner. Depending on the property, additional amenities such as a pool, garden, or security system may also be included," explained one person living in South Africa.

Additional Information about Searching for a Home in South Africa:

We asked foreigners in South Africa what appliances are typically included in a rental, and, if there is anything else included or not included that a newcomer would not expect. Replies included...

"Expats can search for homes in South Africa by using online real estate websites, such as Property24, Private Property, and Gumtree. They can also contact local real estate agents who specialize in helping expats find homes in South Africa. Additionally, expats can search for homes in South Africa by attending open houses and visiting neighborhoods to get a better feel for the area," said one in South Africa.

About the Author

Betsy Burlingame Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.

Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.

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