Before you buy in a security estate, check the levy, the homeowners association rules, building restrictions and the estate finances.

Before you buy a flat or townhouse, check the levies, reserve fund, finances, rules and the exclusive use areas that come with your unit.

Property transfer often takes about 8 to 12 weeks from the signed offer to registration. The steps, who does what and what can cause delays.

A practical list of what to ask and check at a viewing: damage, running costs, compliance certificates, security, neighbours and why the owner is selling.

Most home purchases have no cooling-off period. The five-day right in the Alienation of Land Act falls away above R250 000. Here is when it applies.

Voetstoots means you buy a home as it stands, including hidden faults. But it does not protect a seller who knowingly hid a defect to deceive you.

A suspensive condition makes your purchase depend on something happening by a set date, such as bond approval. See how they work and what to check.

A signed offer to purchase is a binding contract. Check the price, conditions, deposit, occupation date and fixtures before you put your name to it.

No law sets a minimum deposit for a home. What banks ask for varies, and you also need cash for transfer costs. Here is how to work out your number.

The steps to buying your first home in South Africa, from checking your budget and credit record to offer, bond approval and transfer.