“Age is an issue of mind over matter, If you don’t mind, it doesn’t matter “- Mark Twain
These days, the “youth” would include everyone up to 24 years old.
June is traditionally Youth month and as such you will note that from our articles and features, we want to focus on the younger persons in our society.
The focus on this article is on the first-time buyers who are generally those that are starting their careers, leaving house and even starting a family.
Looking back at my own life, I was very blessed to be able to purchase my first townhouse before my 21st birthday. 
I was working for Standard Bank and we had preferential interest rates which made it possible to afford my first property where my repayments were less than the monthly levies!
These days however, properties have become more expensive and whilst salaries have certainly increased from when I was a “Laaitie” I do believe that it is certainly more difficult to own a home these days.
For first time buyers, the best advice is to look at an entry-level property, preferably closer to work, which would help with reducing transport costs and making the monthly repayments more affordable. 
There may very well be Transfer costs involved unless the property is brand new where Transfer costs would not be applicable so this should also be considered. Bond registration costs are also a factor and there
are many on-line tools and calculators that will give a very accurate estimate as to what these costs will be.
Please remember to always consider the additional costs of having to pay levies and municipal utilities, which differ from one municipality to the next. 
Maintaining your property is crucial to ensuring that you will also maintain its value. Good quality paint does wonders for a property.
Buying your first property is fundamentally different to simply renting a place to stay and it is a BIG decision, so do whatever you can to make the right one!
The very best advice is still that if you don’t know something; ASK!

Oom Arthur