Home Loan & Bond Calculator — South Africa
Estimate your monthly bond repayment in Rand at current prime-linked rates. See total interest over the term. No signup, no tracking.
Current rates (prime = 10.25% (repo 6.75% + 3.5%), 2026 — verify with your bank)
| Lender / type | Typical rate | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Bank | prime ± 1% | Largest mortgage lender |
| FNB | prime ± 1% | Strong digital tools |
| Absa | prime ± 1% | Competitive first-buyer deals |
| Nedbank | prime ± 1% | Flexible bond options |
| Capitec Home | prime-linked | Newer, competitive |
Major lenders
- Standard Bank — the largest home-loan (bond) lender, wide product range
- FNB — strong digital application and bond management
- Absa — competitive first-time buyer and 100% bonds
- Nedbank — flexible repayment and access-bond features
- Capitec Home — newer entrant with competitive prime-linked rates
The real cost — a worked example
Example: R1,500,000 bond at 11.25% (prime + 1%) for 20 years
- Monthly payment: R15,739
- Total paid over 20 years: R3,777,322
- Total interest: R2,277,322
How South African bonds work
- Rates are quoted relative to prime (10.25%) — a strong applicant may get prime or below, others prime + 1–2%.
- Access bond / flexi facilities let you pay extra into the bond and withdraw later, cutting interest while keeping liquidity.
- Budget for bond registration and transfer (conveyancing) costs — often 8–10% of the price on top of any deposit.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is a bond repayment calculated in South Africa?
Banks use the reducing-balance formula P × r × (1+r)ⁿ ÷ ((1+r)ⁿ − 1). Most bonds are variable, linked to the prime rate, so your repayment changes when the SARB moves the repo rate.
What is the current home loan rate in South Africa?
Bonds are priced around prime (10.25% in 2026), typically prime ± 1% depending on your profile and deposit. Prime is the SARB repo rate (6.75%) plus a 3.5% margin.
What extra costs come with buying a home?
Bond registration and property transfer (conveyancing) fees can total 8–10% of the purchase price, separate from your deposit. Factor these in before committing.
What is an access bond?
A facility that lets you pay extra into your bond to reduce interest, then withdraw those funds later if needed. It's an effective way to cut total interest while keeping access to cash.
Can I get a 100% bond?
Yes, some banks offer 100% bonds (no deposit), especially to first-time buyers, but a deposit lowers your rate and total interest. Registration and transfer costs still apply.