Transfer and bond costs calculator
Estimate the cash you need on top of your deposit when you buy, with or without a bond.
- Transfer duty (SARS)
- Transfer attorney, with VAT (estimate)
- Deeds Office fee on the transfer
- Bond attorney, with VAT (estimate)
- Deeds Office fee on the bond
- Searches, postage and similar (estimate)
This calculator gives an estimate only, for general information. It isn't financial, tax or legal advice. Your bank, attorney, SARS or a tax practitioner confirms the final amounts.
How this is worked out
Exact figures: transfer duty comes from SARS's table, and Deeds Office fees from the schedule in force from 27 March 2026, including its R52 lodgement fee.
Estimates: attorneys' fees aren't fixed by law and differ between firms. Without a quote, this calculator uses a rough figure of R10 000 plus 1.6% of the amount up to R3 million, then 0.6% above that, plus 15% VAT, and allows R2 500 per attorney for searches and postage. It's a guide only, so ask your attorney for a written quote and enter it above.
Questions people ask
Who chooses the transfer attorney?
The seller normally appoints the transfer attorney, and the buyer pays their fee. The bank appoints the attorney who registers the bond.
Why are there two attorneys?
One transfers the property to you, and the other registers your bond in favour of the bank. If you pay cash, you only have the transfer costs.
Can these costs go on my bond?
Usually not, although some banks offer options. Assume you need them in cash, and ask your bank early.
Does the seller pay anything?
Sellers commonly pay agent's commission, compliance certificates, and the cost of cancelling their existing bond. The buyer pays the transfer and new bond costs shown here.