Renting a property in Cape Town

Renting property in Cape Town

Most expats will opt to rent a property initially, and in many cases a rented property may be provided through one’s employment.

 

Renting in Cape Town is a simple process. All that is generally required is one months’ deposit, proof of income and, in some cases, a letter of introduction from one’s employer.

 

There is wide range of accommodation available to suit every budget and taste, including both furnished and unfurnished accommodation. Townhouses and clusters are normally located inside a secure development, with access security and electrified perimeters. This type of accommodation is naturally popular with security conscious expats.

 

Prices
Flats in the city bowl rent from R4 000 per month for a bachelor, to upwards of R15 000 p/month for a 3 room apartment. Cluster and house rental prices vary widely according to the area – from R10 000 for a modest 3 bedroom home in the suburbs, to R50 000 for a plush sea facing home in Camps Bay.

Property agents
Real estate agents are the best source of rental properties. Provide the agent a list of your requirements, but give only a broad budget as in reality rentals are negotiable within a 10-20% range. Tenants pay no fees for the agent’s services and they will additionally provide and expedite any paperwork required when signing the lease. Note that tenants are liable for the utilities bills, although rates are included in the rental.

 

Other sources for finding rental accommodation in Cape Town include the classifieds section of the Argus newspaper (Saturday edition) and the Cape Times property section on Wednesdays. A popular online resource is the Gumtree (www.gumtree.co.za) A useful list of estate agents is available here.

 

Timing
The best time to look for rentals is between May and September; during the summer months apartments are often reserved for lucrative short-term lets.