Understanding the Property Transfer and Registration Process in South Africa.
Buying or selling a property is one of the biggest financial decisions many people will ever make — and yet, the legal process that happens behind the scenes can often feel confusing and overwhelming. At Property Hive, we believe in keeping our clients informed, so here’s a step-by-step guide to help you understand what really happens during the property transfer and registration process in South Africa.
1. Offer to Purchase is Signed
Once a buyer and seller agree on the terms of the sale, they both sign an Offer to Purchase (OTP) — this is a legally binding contract that outlines the purchase price, conditions of sale, and other important details. Once signed, both parties are committed to following through unless one fails to meet the conditions outlined.
2. Appointing a Conveyancer
The seller usually nominates a conveyancing attorney (unless stated otherwise in the OTP). This attorney is responsible for handling the legal transfer of the property from seller to buyer and working with the Deeds Office to officially register the new ownership.
3. Getting Bond Approval (If Applicable)
If the buyer is financing the purchase with a bond (home loan), the bank must formally approve it. Once approved, the bank appoints their own bond attorney to register the bond with the Deeds Office.
4. Requesting and Collecting Documents
The conveyancer will now gather all required documents, including:
The original title deed
Compliance certificates (electrical, plumbing, gas, etc.)
Seller’s ID and proof of address
Municipal rates clearance certificate
Transfer duty receipt from SARS (if applicable)
5. Drafting and Signing Transfer Documents
The buyer and seller will be contacted to sign the transfer documents. The conveyancer also prepares a statement of account for the buyer, which includes:
Transfer duty (a tax payable to SARS on property transactions)
Attorney fees
Deeds Office fees
Pro-rata rates and taxes Once paid, the conveyancer proceeds to the next stage.
6. Lodging at the Deeds Office
All documents are submitted (lodged) at the Deeds Office, where they are examined by officials to ensure everything is legally correct. This process can take between 7 to 10 working days, depending on the office and complexity of the transaction.
7. Registration
Once all is in order, the property is officially registered in the buyer’s name, and the funds are released to the seller. The buyer receives a new title deed, and the transaction is complete.
How Long Does the Transfer Process Take?
Typically, the entire process can take 6 to 12 weeks from the day the Offer to Purchase is signed to final registration, but it may vary depending on delays in documentation, bond approval, or municipal clearance.
Tips for a Smooth Transfer Process
Ensure all compliance certificates are up to date
Disclose any outstanding municipal accounts early
Work with a trusted estate agent and conveyancer
Stay in regular contact with all parties involved
At Property Hive, we don’t just list properties — we support you through the entire buying and selling process. If you have questions about how transfer works or need help connecting with reputable attorneys and service providers, we’re just a message away.