Joan Swart Attorneys

20/07/2026

20/06/2026

The "Hidden" Cost of Property Just Went Up

If you’re planning to buy property after July 1st, your "hidden" costs just got more expensive.
Most people budget for the deposit and the bond repayment. But the one thing that catches every first-time buyer off guard is the Conveyancing Fees.

Starting 1 July 2026, the recommended fee guidelines for property transfers and bond registrations in South Africa are increasing by an average of 3.4%.

Why is this happening?
This is the annual adjustment published by the Law Society of South Africa (LSSA) and the Legal Practice Council (LPC). It’s an inflationary update to cover the rising costs of running a legal practice - everything from specialized software and cybersecurity to the staff who handle your paperwork at the Deeds Office.

How does this affect you?
The Buyer Pays - In South Africa, the buyer is responsible for the transfer costs and the bond registration costs.

Compounding Costs: While 3.4% sounds small, it applies to the professional fee component of your costs. On a R2 million property, you’re looking at an extra few thousand Rand that you need to have in cash before the deal can move forward.

It’s Not Just One Fee: Remember, your "Transfer Costs" are made up of:
- Professional Fees (The ones going up on July 1).
- VAT (15% on the professional fee).
- Deeds Office Fees (Government charges).
- Transfer Duty (Tax to SARS—this hasn't changed).

If you’ve just signed an Offer to Purchase, ask your attorney for a pro-forma cost sheet immediately. Make sure it reflects the July 2026 tariffs if your registration is happening after the 1st.

Don't let a few thousand Rand in "hidden" costs stall your transfer.

Follow the route. See the data. Protect your equity.

10/06/2026

✨ Fun Fact Wednesday ✨

You don’t need a mountain of paperwork before your consultation with us 💼💗

Just your ID (and a divorce order or death certificate if applicable) — we’ll guide you through the rest 🤝

At Joan Swart Attorneys, we believe legal processes shouldn’t feel overwhelming — they should feel supported, clear, and calm.

📩 Ready to get started? We’re here when you are.

📧 [email protected]
📱070 358 2081

07/06/2026

💍 Engaged? Planning your wedding?

Marriage is not only a romantic commitment — it’s a legal and financial partnership.

Without an antenuptial contract (ANC), you are automatically married in community of property, meaning all assets and debts are shared.

Planning ahead isn’t unromantic — it’s wise.

If you’re getting married, make sure your ANC is signed before the big day.

📧 [email protected]
📱070 358 2081
Joan Swart Attorneys

30/05/2026

A 4 Bedroom House For Sale in Eden Glen by RE/MAX for R3,200,000.