All You Need to Know About Finding Housing in South Africa

South Africa is a fascinating and diverse place, a home of colourful culture and wonderful nature. Besides the variety of wildlife, rich landscape and stunning scenery, the country offers many economic and business opportunities. All these factors combined with the relatively low living costs make South Africa the perfect place for relocation.

Where to Live in South Africa

As a developing country, South Africa is experiencing serious issues in sectors like crime, safety and security. Just like anywhere in the world, there are certain no – go areas. Unemployment is the major reason for the high crime rate. Many people from the rural part of South Africa are coming to the big cities, hoping to find a job, which seldom happens. The unemployment rife results in growing crime.

The top five safest destinations for expats are Cape Town, The Garden Route, Port St John’s, Cape St. Francis and the West Coast. Although these cities are relatively secure, you should avoid the dangerous parts of the urban centres. You need to stay vigilant and the required precautions.

Choosing a Home

Again safety is a top priority. Pick a home with solid security and consider hiring a security company. Research the crime rates in the different regions. As an expat, it’s better to get a house in a gated community. You can find different type of housing – from single family home to two –bedroom –flat and small townhouses.

The first thing you may notice upon moving house in South Africa is that the living spaces are smaller than in other countries. You may think about downsizing your possessions before the moving and relocation stage or find a storage solution. Re – think the removal to South Africa if you or your family members have respiratory problems, because of the high pollution.

Working With an Estate Agent

You basically have two options – working with local or foreign estate agent. You can find good professionals in South Africa that will guide through the process. When look for an estate agency, pick a bog and well – established on the market organization. Obtain as much information as possible about as many properties as you can.

Working with a foreign estate agent may be more expensive, because more people are involved in the process. Before moving house to South Africa confirm that the property is available.

Before sealing the deal, make sure that you know the actual local market value of the property. Don’t allow yourself to be pressurised by the estate agent. It’s a good idea to look for a legal advice.

Commissions

The commissions vary. Be sure you know whether you are charged on a fixed or flexible rate. Check for any extra expenses for services like additional viewing. South African agents expect you to know where you want to buy a home. Make an appointment for a viewing, instead of showing up and asking to see the property.

Hire reliable moving help for smooth international and interstate removals and ensure your trouble-free and stress-free relocation process.