What are the top factors to keep in mind when searching for a place to live in your city?
When searching for a place to live, some important factors to consider are safety, location preference and individual needs. Depending on your preferences, you may want to find a place close to a school, church, transportation, shops, medical facilities, work and, most importantly, an area that is secure and safe. Choosing the right place to live is essential to having a pleasant and safe stay in Cape Town.
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What are the most popular neighborhoods in your city for expats?
Some of the popular neighborhoods in Cape Town:

  • Rondebosch, Tamboerskloof, Vredehoek, Bischopscourt, Newlands and Constantia - These are older, established areas. Most homes are still available with wooden flooring and many are in the Cape Dutch style. Constantia also has the oldest vineyards in Cape Town.
  • Vredehoek, Oranjezicht, Gardens and Tamboerskloof– These are closer to town; many people working in town opt to stay in these suburbs for convenience. Some homes in these suburbs offer magnificent views over the harbor and Robben Island.
  • Durbanville, Parklands and Plattekloof – These newer, expanding suburbs have more of a modern lifestyle. Blaauwberg, close to the Parklands area, also has beaches, renowned worldwide for its kite surfing. The corporate market enjoys the very poshCamps Bay and Cliftonresidences, with stunning sea views and beaches.
  • If you prefer a more village feeling and love the mountains, Stellenbosch and Somerset West are the ideal places to be, with many wine lands close by and yet still close to the sea. They are also a short drive from town.
  • The more distant suburbs are Fish Hoek and Simon's Town, where False Bay is well known for its surfing. Boulders Beach in Simon’s Town has a very large colony of penguins.

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Do expats tend to buy or rent their homes?
Most expatriates tend to rent their homes first while looking for a house that will best suit their needs.
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Typically, will I be required to pay additional money up front (such as a deposit) before moving into leased housing? If so, how much is common?
A deposit equivalent to one and a half months’ rent needs to be paid prior to moving in.
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Are utilities generally included in the price of rent, or are they extra?
All utilities are an extra expense.
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Are there special security concerns I should be aware of in regards to my home or choice of neighborhood?
Despite an increase in street crime in recent years, Cape Town remains one of South Africa's most relaxed cities, which can instill a false sense of security. We don't suggest you become paranoid, but having common sense is the key to safety. It is recommended that you check out local police reports before deciding on an area to live. These reports provide factual information on types of crimes and how often they occur. This will most likely be a determining factor on whether you choose to live in a certain neighborhood or not.
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I’m not sure if I should bring my appliances. What is the electric current, Hz and plug shape in your city?
The electric current for South Africa is 220/240 volts. The electrical Hertz (Hz) is 50 cycles per second, which is compatible with UK appliances. All the other countries are not compatible. The type of plug is a three-point round-pin Type M and is similar to the Type D plug, but its pins are much larger. These plugs are required for razors and hair dryers and travel irons. You can purchase these plugs in South Africa.
Type M plug 
Type M or "South African" Plug
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Do you have any other accommodation information that might help me?
It always good to be well-informed about the new location that you are considering. It is recommended that you do as much research as possible before choosing a specific area. Get feedback from the local real estate agents as well as the permanent residents on what the most preferred and safe neighborhoods are. No matter where you live, it is always best to be safe. A good tip to follow is to always change the locks on your new home before moving in.
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IMPORTANT NOTE:
Crown Relocations has made every effort to present accurate information. However, regulations, rates and other variables are subject to change and Crown Relocations cannot accept responsibility for the errors that might result. Should you have any questions or need additional information, please contact your local Crown representative.