Renting vs. Buying: Making the Right Choice
Renting offers flexibility and lower upfront costs, making it an excellent choice for many South
Africans. This guide covers everything from finding the perfect rental to understanding your rights as a
tenant.
Benefits of Renting
- Lower upfront costs
- Flexibility to move
- No maintenance responsibilities
- Access to amenities
- No property market risk
When Renting Makes Sense
- Short-term living arrangements
- Saving for a house deposit
- Uncertain job location
- First time living independently
- Testing out neighborhoods
Finding Your Perfect Rental
Where to Search
Online Platforms: Property24, Private Property, Gumtree, and specialized rental
sites
Real Estate Agents: Professional agents who specialize in rental properties
Social Media Groups: Facebook groups and WhatsApp groups for specific areas
Word of Mouth: Friends, family, and colleagues often know of available properties
Direct Contact: Approach landlords or property management companies directly
Pro Tip: Start your search 4-6 weeks before you need to move. Good properties go quickly,
especially in popular areas.
The Rental Application Process
1
Property Viewing
Schedule viewings, inspect the property thoroughly, and ask questions about terms and conditions.
2
Application Submission
Submit completed application with required documents: ID, proof of income, bank statements,
references.
3
Credit & Reference Checks
Landlord conducts credit check and contacts your references (usually takes 2-5 business days).
4
Lease Agreement
Review and sign the lease agreement. Clarify any unclear terms before signing.
5
Payment & Move-In
Pay first month's rent and deposit, receive keys, and complete move-in inspection.
Understanding Rental Costs
Upfront Costs
First Month's Rent: Paid upfront before moving in
Security Deposit: Usually 1-2 months' rent (refundable)
Lease Admin Fee: R500 - R2,000 for processing
Moving Costs: R2,000 - R8,000 depending on distance
Credit Check Fee: R100 - R300 per application
Connection Fees: Utilities setup and deposits
Monthly Expenses
Rent: Should not exceed 30% of your gross monthly income
Utilities: Electricity, water, gas (if not included in rent)
Internet: R400 - R1,500 per month depending on speed
Insurance: Contents insurance for personal belongings
Property Inspection Checklist
Interior Inspection
Water pressure and hot water in all taps
Electrical outlets and light switches working
Windows and doors open/close properly
Kitchen appliances functionality
Signs of dampness or mold
Exterior & Surroundings
Parking availability and security
Garden maintenance responsibilities
Security features (alarms, gates, guards)
Noise levels at different times
Proximity to transport and amenities
Garbage collection arrangements
Important: Take photos of any existing damage before moving in and ensure it's documented
in your lease agreement.
Know Your Rights as a Tenant
Rental Housing Act Protections
You Have the Right To:
- Safe and habitable living conditions
- Privacy and peaceful enjoyment
- Reasonable notice before inspections
- Return of deposit (minus legitimate deductions)
- Written receipts for all payments
- Protection against unfair eviction
Landlord Responsibilities:
- Maintain the property in good condition
- Provide working utilities (if included)
- Give 24-48 hours notice for inspections
- Follow legal eviction procedures
- Return deposits within 7-14 days
- Respect your privacy rights
Understanding Your Lease Agreement
Key Clauses to Review
Rental Amount & Payment Terms: Monthly rent, due date, late fees, and payment
methods
Lease Duration: Start and end dates, renewal options, and notice periods
Deposit Terms: Amount, conditions for return, and deduction criteria
Maintenance Responsibilities: Who handles what repairs and maintenance
Pet Policy: Whether pets are allowed and any associated fees
Subletting Rules: Whether you can sublet or have roommates
Legal Tip: Never sign a lease without reading it thoroughly. If something is unclear, ask
for clarification or seek legal advice.
Moving In & Moving Out
Moving In Checklist
Complete move-in inspection with landlord
Document existing damage with photos
Set up utilities and internet
Update address with banks and employers
Get keys and access codes
Moving Out Checklist
Give proper notice (usually 30 days)
Deep clean the entire property
Repair any damage you caused
Complete final inspection with landlord
Return all keys and access devices
Common Rental Problems & Solutions
Maintenance Issues
Solution: Report issues in writing immediately. Keep records of all
communications. For urgent repairs, know your rights for emergency repairs.
Deposit Disputes
Solution: Document property condition thoroughly at move-in and move-out. Know
what constitutes normal wear and tear vs. damage.
Noise Complaints
Solution: Document noise incidents with dates and times. Speak to neighbors
first, then contact landlord or body corporate if necessary.
Illegal Eviction
Solution: Know your rights. Landlords must follow legal procedures. Contact the
Rental Housing Tribunal or legal aid if threatened with illegal eviction.
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