The best home loan rates in South Africa are typically prime minus 0.5% (currently around 10.25% p.a.) for applicants with excellent credit profiles (score 700+), large deposits, and stable income. Most applicants receive rates between prime (10.75%) and prime plus 1.5% (12.25%). Use a Finance EzyFind to get competing offers from all major banks.

There is no single "cheapest" bank — the rate you receive depends on your credit score, income, deposit, and loan-to-value ratio. SA Home Loans is known for competitive rates on larger amounts. ooba (bond originator) is recommended because they negotiate on your behalf across all major lenders and typically secure rates 0.5–1% lower than direct applicants. These bond originators could be buyest to a specific bank as they get better kcikbacks. Finance EzyFind is not buyest and we apply to all banks to get the best rates and negotiate on your behalf.

Yes. ABSA, FNB, Nedbank, and Standard Bank all offer 100% bonds (no deposit required) for qualifying first-time buyers with strong credit profiles. However, you still need to cover transfer costs (typically 8–11% of the purchase price) which are not included in the bond. Some lenders offer 105–110% bonds that cover these costs for qualifying buyers.

For a R1.5M property with a 100% bond over 20 years at 10.75%, the monthly repayment is approximately R15 228. Banks generally require that your bond repayment does not exceed 30% of your gross monthly income. You would therefore need a minimum gross income of approximately R50 800 per month (joint income for couples). Use our affordability calculator for a precise estimate.

Required documents: copy of SA ID, last 3 payslips (or 6 months for self-employed), last 3 months' bank statements, proof of residence (not older than 3 months), signed Offer to Purchase (OTP). Self-employed applicants also need 2 years' financial statements. A bond originator can submit all documents to multiple banks simultaneously on your behalf.