Making an offer

A buyer’s cash checklist before signing an offer to purchase

The advertised price is the starting point. A strong offer is one you can actually fund through transfer and registration.

Last reviewed: 22 August 2026

1. Your deposit

Decide what percentage you can place as a deposit and confirm when it is payable under the offer. It may be held in trust, but it is money committed to the deal.

2. Transfer costs

For a non-VAT sale, include transfer duty where applicable. Also plan for attorney fees, VAT on legal services, deeds-office fees and disbursements.

3. Bond-registration costs

If borrowing, plan separately for the bond attorney, deeds-office fee, disbursements and lender fees. These are not automatically covered by the property loan.

4. The first months of ownership

Keep a reserve for moving, municipal deposits, insurance, levies or rates adjustments, urgent repairs and the first bond instalment.

Questions worth asking

• Does the contract include a finance condition and deadline?
• Which costs are expressly for the purchaser?
• Is the sale subject to VAT or transfer duty?
• Are there special levy, maintenance or occupational-rent issues?
• When must the deposit be paid, and to which trust account?

Ask a qualified professional to review any contract you do not understand. General information only.