Question 1

What documents do I need to sell my property?

Accepted Answer

Title deed, ID documents of all owners, marriage certificate or ANC if applicable, approved building plans, rates account, levy statements, compliance certificates and a seller disclosure document. Having these ready speeds up transfer.

Question 2

How do I price my property correctly?

Accepted Answer

Use a professional valuation, comparative market analysis from agents and recent sales in your area. Overpricing leads to long listing periods and eventual price reductions. Price based on market value, not what you need from the sale.

Question 3

Should I sell privately or use an estate agent?

Accepted Answer

Agents provide marketing reach, negotiation support and market expertise (commission typically 5–7.5% plus VAT). Private sale suits sellers with a buyer, wanting more control or lower costs — but requires professional document support.

Question 4

Who pays estate agent commission?

Accepted Answer

The seller pays commission from the sale proceeds, not the buyer. Rates are negotiable but typically 5–7.5% plus VAT. Confirm the mandate terms, marketing inclusions and cancellation clauses before signing.

Question 5

What must a seller disclose to the buyer?

Accepted Answer

All known defects, structural issues, water damage, roof leaks, boundary disputes, unapproved alterations, pending municipal actions and neighbourhood nuisances. Failure to disclose known issues can lead to legal claims after transfer.

Question 6

What happens after the offer is signed?

Accepted Answer

The buyer applies for bond approval, a conveyancer is appointed, FICA is completed, compliance certificates are obtained, rates and levy clearance applied for, transfer duty is paid, documents are lodged and registration follows. Typical timeline: 8–12 weeks.

Question 7

Can I sell privately if I have an existing agent mandate?

Accepted Answer

Usually not without risk. Exclusive or sole mandates may entitle the agent to commission even if you find your own buyer. Review your mandate terms before listing privately or with another agent.

Question 8

What if the buyer withdraws after signing the OTP?

Accepted Answer

If the sale is unconditional, the buyer may be in breach and the seller could claim damages or forfeit the deposit depending on the OTP terms. If a suspensive condition failed, the sale typically falls away without penalty.

Question 9

When does the seller receive the sale proceeds?

Accepted Answer

After registration at the Deeds Office, the conveyancer pays the seller from trust account — typically within a few days of registration, minus bond settlement, agent commission, compliance costs and any agreed deductions.

Question 10

Does home staging really help sell property faster?

Accepted Answer

Yes — well-presented homes typically sell faster and often achieve stronger offers. Declutter, depersonalise, improve lighting, refresh paint and garden. Midlands buyers respond strongly to clean kitchens, maintained gardens and school-proximity lifestyle appeal.

Question 11

Do I pay tax when selling my primary home?

Accepted Answer

Natural persons selling their primary residence qualify for a R2 million Capital Gains Tax exclusion on the gain. Investment properties, holiday homes and rental units do not qualify. Keep records of improvements as they reduce the taxable gain.

Question 12

What is an exclusive mandate with an estate agent?

Accepted Answer

An exclusive mandate gives one agency sole selling rights for a set period. Even if you find the buyer yourself, commission may still be payable. Read the duration, commission rate, marketing plan and cancellation terms carefully.

Selling Questions