Do I need a conveyancer to buy property?

Property transfers in South Africa must legally be done by a conveyancer — no way around it. The seller typically appoints the conveyancer, so you may not have direct choice. However, you can request a firm you trust. The conveyancer handles: title deed checks, drafting the agreement, calculating transfer duty, and lodging at the Deeds Office. Budget for transfer duty (>R1.1M purchase price), conveyancer fees, and bond registration fees.