Imagine buying your dream home without saving for a deposit. Sounds impossible? Not anymore.

In 2025, zero-deposit home loans are making a big comeback in South Africa, and the numbers prove it.

Plus/minus, 53.7% of bond applications in the last quarter of 2024 were for 100% home loans (that’s right, no deposit!). This tells us one thing: South Africans are ready to buy, even if they don’t have upfront cash.

Why Is Everyone Talking About Zero-Deposit Bonds?

At Secubond, we’ve seen the demand skyrocket, and here’s why:

1. Banks Are Offering Better Deals

By the end of 2024, banks were giving home loans at prime minus 0.55%. That’s more competitive than before, making it easier to qualify even without a deposit.

2. It’s Getting Easier to Afford a Home

With interest rate cuts expected in 2025, many buyers, especially first-timers, feel now is the perfect time to buy.

3. First-Time Buyers Are Leading the Pack

Nearly 47% of all buyers at the end of 2024 were first-timers. Most of them chose zero-deposit bonds to get into their homes faster.

The Good Stuff: Why You’ll Love a Zero-Deposit Bond

• No Deposit Needed
  Skip years of saving. Move in sooner.
• Perfect for First-Time Buyers
  Whether you’re a young couple or a working professional, it’s made for you.
• More Bank Options
  Banks are competing to win your business. That means better offers for you.
• You Can Benefit from Lower Rates
  Falling interest rates in 2025 could mean smaller monthly repayments.

But Don’t Skip the Fine Print…

Before you jump in, here are a few things to know:

• Higher Monthly Repayments
  Since you’re borrowing more, you’ll repay more each month.
• Slightly Higher Interest Rate (in some cases)
  No deposit can mean more risk for the bank and sometimes a higher rate.
• No Equity Cushion
  If the property market dips, you won’t have that initial equity buffer.
• Tougher Credit Checks
  Banks will look closely at your income, debt, and credit record before approving your bond.

Is a Zero-Deposit Bond Right for You?

Go for it if you:

• Are a first-time buyer with stable income
• Can comfortably afford the monthly repayments
• Want to take advantage of lower interest rates

Be careful if you:

• Are you self-employed, or if your income go up and down
• Have a low credit score
• Don’t have emergency savings

Secubond’s Top Tips for Buyers

As your trusted bond originator, Secubond is here to help you every step of the way:

• Use a bond originator (that’s us!)
  We compare banks for you, so you don’t have to.
• Get prequalified
  Know what you can afford before you fall in love with a property.
• Plan for extras
  Think rates, taxes, levies, and maintenance; we’ll help you budget smartly.
• Improve your credit score
  A better score = better bond deals. We’ll show you how.

Zero-deposit bonds are more than a trend; they’re a powerful tool for getting into the property market without waiting years to save up.

If you’re ready to own a home and have a stable income, this could be your moment.

Let Secubond help you find the best bond deal for your needs.
We’re here to simplify the process, save you time, and get you the keys to your new home.