How much deposit do you need for a house? (2026/27)
Figures for the 2026/27 tax year. Prime rate checked 9 October 2026; tax tables and fees checked 30 September 2026. By AfroTech.
Many South African banks offer 100% bonds, especially to first-time buyers, so a deposit isn't always required. But a deposit lowers your repayment and your interest bill, and it can improve your chances of approval.
A R 1 500 000 home at prime (10,75%)
| Deposit | Bond | Monthly repayment | Total interest (20 years) | Cash needed up front |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| None | R 1 500 000 | R 15 228 | R 2 154 824 | R 98 005 |
| 10% (R 150 000) | R 1 350 000 | R 13 706 | R 1 939 342 | R 245 567 |
| 20% (R 300 000) | R 1 200 000 | R 12 183 | R 1 723 859 | R 393 129 |
Cash needed up front: the deposit plus transfer duty, attorneys' and Deeds Office fees and bond registration costs.
You need cash even with a 100% bond
A 100% bond covers the price only. Transfer and bond registration costs, R 98 005 on this home, are paid in cash before transfer. Save for these first.
What a deposit buys you
- A 10% deposit cuts the repayment by R 1 523 a month and saves R 215 482 in interest over 20 years.
- Banks may offer a lower interest rate with a bigger deposit, which saves even more.
- A smaller bond is easier to qualify for on the same income.
Try it with your own numbers. The ZARWise calculator uses the same figures as this page.
See what you can afford with your deposit