Buying or selling property is one of the most important financial transactions you will ever undertake. In South Africa, the process is highly regulated and requires the assistance of an attorney who is admitted as a conveyancer. At Mayet & Associates Attorneys, we guide our clients in Bloemfontein through every stage of the transfer process to ensure a smooth and legally compliant transaction.
Step 1: Signing the Sale Agreement
The process begins when the buyer and seller sign a valid Offer to Purchase (OTP) or Sale Agreement. This document sets out the purchase price, conditions of sale, occupational rent (if applicable), and other key terms. It is legally binding, so both parties must fully understand its implications before signing.
💡 Tip: We recommend having the contract reviewed by a qualified attorney in Bloemfontein before you commit, to avoid costly disputes later.
Step 2: Appointing a Conveyancer
In South Africa, only attorneys who are admitted as conveyancers may prepare and lodge the documents required to transfer ownership at the Deeds Office. Traditionally, the seller has the right to appoint the conveyancer, but both parties should agree on a firm that they trust.
At Mayet & Associates, our conveyancing team in Bloemfontein ensures that all statutory requirements are met, deadlines are monitored, and communication between banks, estate agents, and clients is seamless.
Step 3: Bond Registration and Cancellation
If the buyer is financing the purchase with a bank loan, the bank will appoint its own attorney to register the bond. Similarly, if the seller still has an existing bond, the bank will appoint a bond cancellation attorney. These processes run concurrently with the property transfer.
Close coordination between all attorneys involved is crucial to avoid delays. As your Bloemfontein-based attorneys, we maintain active communication with all parties to keep the process moving.
Step 4: Transfer Duty and Compliance Certificates
Before transfer can proceed, certain costs and compliance requirements must be settled:
- Transfer Duty: Payable to SARS by the purchaser, unless the property is exempt (e.g., below the current exemption threshold).
- Rates Clearance Certificate: Issued by the local municipality confirming that rates and taxes are paid up.
- Compliance Certificates: These may include electrical, water/plumbing, gas, beetle, and energy certificates, depending on the property type and contract terms.
Our role as conveyancers includes obtaining and verifying these certificates to ensure compliance with South African property law.
Step 5: Lodging at the Bloemfontein Deeds Office
Once all documents are prepared and signed, they are lodged electronically at the Bloemfontein Deeds Office. This is the final stage in the process.
The Deeds Office examiners check all documents for legal accuracy. Once approved, the transfer is registered, and ownership is officially passed to the buyer. This usually takes 7–10 working days from the date of lodgement.
Step 6: Registration and Handover
After registration, the buyer becomes the new legal owner, and the purchase price is paid out to the seller. Keys may then be handed over, unless otherwise agreed in the contract. The Deeds Office issues a new Title Deed in the buyer’s name, which is delivered to their bank (if a bond is registered) or directly to the buyer.
Why Work with Mayet & Associates in Bloemfontein?
Property transfers are complex and often involve multiple stakeholders. Mistakes or delays can be costly. By choosing Mayet & Associates, you benefit from:
- A dedicated Bloemfontein conveyancing team with local expertise.
- Clear communication throughout the transfer process.
- Fast, efficient handling of municipal and SARS clearances.
- Guidance tailored to first-time buyers, investors, and businesses.
Contact Us
Whether you’re buying, selling, or simply exploring your property options, Mayet & Associates Attorneys is here to assist with reliable conveyancing services in Bloemfontein.
📍 Office: 14 Louw Wepener Street, Dan Pienaar, Bloemfontein
📞 Tel: 051 492 5668
📧 Email: admin@mayet.law
