Buying

Buying with a partner, friend or relative means shared debt and risk. See how banks treat co-owners, why an agreement matters and what marriage changes.

Buying from a developer usually means VAT instead of transfer duty. See how they differ, what else you pay, and how to plan for building delays.

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.