1 . Moving and Transport Costs
One of the first unexpected expenses new homeowners face is the cost of moving . In South Africa , moving costs vary based on several factors including distance , the amount of belongings , and any additional services like packing or storage . Local moves tend to be more affordable , starting from around R1,500 , while long-distance moves can range from R4,000 to R15,000 or more .
Beyond distance , factors like accessibility of your new home can impact pricing . Narrow streets , stairs , or difficult entry points may result in additional charges . Extra services , such as packing , storage , and insurance , can quickly add to the total moving expenses . Homebuyers should shop around for comparative quotes and to budget for a worst-case scenario to ensure they aren ’ t caught off guard financially .
2 . Levies , Rates , and Special Levies
When purchasing a sectional title property ( like a townhouse or apartment ), homebuyers are obligated to pay monthly levies to maintain the property . These levies typically range from R1,500 to upwards of R10,000 , especially in exclusive lifestyle estates . They cover various costs such as insurance , security , maintenance , and utilities in common areas . For freehold property owners , it ’ s equally important to factor in the costs of insurance , ongoing maintenance , and security services . I recommend that buyers inquire about the levies in any complex and review the financial statements before making an offer .
Understanding a complex ’ s financial standing can help prevent future issues , such as the need for special levies to cover large repairs or improvements . Special levies for major costs like roof repairs or security upgrades can arise unexpectedly , so it ’ s crucial to research the property ’ s history with these costs and check for any planned future levies .
3 . Utilities Setup
New homeowners must also budget for the setup of essential services like water , electricity , telephone , and internet . Depending on the area , the cost to connect utilities can vary significantly . On average , you should set aside between R1,000 to R3,000 for connecting services like electricity , water , and phone / internet lines , especially if these services are not already installed at the property .
Costs for these connections can depend on the type of service required and the region in which you ’ re moving .
62 REI MAGAZINE MARCH 2025