How to transition into home ownership in 2026
Home ownership remains one of the best long-term investments South Africans can make, but it’s also one of the biggest financial steps a person can take.
As borrowing conditions have become more favourable and household budgets continue to evolve, many South Africans might be looking to 2026 as the year they finally step foot onto the property ladder.
RE/MAX Southern Africa encourages potential buyers to start preparing now by prioritising improving affordability, strengthening credit profiles, and understanding the full cost of home ownership.
According to Adrian Goslett, CEO and regional director of RE/MAX Southern African, the transition from renting to home ownership is a journey that rewards early planning and access to the right professional support.
“Home ownership remains one of the best long-term investments South Africans can make, but it’s also one of the biggest financial steps a person can take,” he explains.
“The buyers who succeed are usually the ones who prepare well in advance by understanding what is truly within their budget and by working with experienced property professionals who can provide expert advice to mitigate costly mistakes.”
Practical steps for anyone hoping to buy a home in the new year:
1. Start with a realistic affordability check
Prospective buyers should base their budgets on their take-home pay and current monthly financial commitments, as opposed to a hopeful maximum loan figure. Ensure that the bond repayments remain within a range that still allows for savings, emergencies, and lifestyle expenses. RE/MAX Southern Africa advises to anticipate life changes in 2026, whether it is school fees, transport upgrades, or family expansion.
2. Prioritise your credit health sooner
Credit scores play a critical role in bond approvals. If you are looking to buy your first home in 2026, make sure you obtain your credit report to correct any inaccuracies and see what revolving debt you need to focus on reducing. By paying accounts on time, keeping credit utilisation low, and avoiding unnecessary new debt, you can make a measurable difference in bond terms.
3. Start saving for the deposit and upfront costs
While buying with a small or no deposit is sometimes possible, a stronger deposit improves approval chances and lowers monthly repayments. Even if it’s a modest amount, aim to save consistently towards a deposit. Beyond it, it’s also crucial to budget for transfer duties, conveyancing fees, bond registration, and any upfront costs that come with purchasing a property.
4. Understand the overall cost of home ownership
Home ownership includes more than just bond repayments. When reviewing your budget, take into consideration municipal rates, utilities, levies, ongoing maintenance, security, and potential long-term upgrades. When it comes to owning your own property, all these small costs add up, so a detailed monthly budget is essential.
5. Choose a home that fits your lifestyle and goals
Before purchasing, assess the daily practicality of the property: What are the commute routes, is it close to schools and healthcare, is the neighbourhood safe, and what is the local resale demand. A home that supports both short-term and long-term needs will be a stronger investment.
6. Lean on professional guidance
Working with a trusted estate agent gives first-time buyers access to market insight, pricing guidance, negotiation support, and can help identify potential risks. A good agent acts as a partner through every step of the process, from viewings to final transfer.
“The most important thing is to move at a pace that’s financially sustainable. Buying a first home should feel exciting, not overwhelming. With a solid plan and the right support, 2026 can absolutely be the year renters become owners,” Goslett concludes.
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