{"id":17453,"date":"2025-07-22T13:16:31","date_gmt":"2025-07-22T11:16:31","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/?p=17453"},"modified":"2026-03-12T10:12:36","modified_gmt":"2026-03-12T08:12:36","slug":"5-affordable-accommodation-options-near-wits","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/5-affordable-accommodation-options-near-wits\/","title":{"rendered":"5 Affordable Accommodation Options Near Wits"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>If you\u2019re a student at the University of the Witwatersrand (Wits), or a parent helping your child settle in, you know that accommodation near campus can be expensive and competitive. Between classes, transport, and daily living expenses, your budget can get stretched fast. But don\u2019t worry\u2014this guide highlights 5 affordable accommodation options near Wits, designed for students who need safety, convenience, and affordability in the heart of Johannesburg.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Whether you&#8217;re using NSFAS funding, paying privately, or sharing with friends, this guide will help you explore realistic choices near the Braamfontein area.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-why-affordable-housing-near-wits-matters\">Why Affordable Housing Near Wits Matters<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Affordable student accommodation is more than just cheap rent\u2014it impacts academic performance, mental well-being, and your university experience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Key Reasons to Prioritise Affordable Living:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Walking distance to campus reduces transport costs.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Secure, student-focused buildings create a supportive study environment.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Budget-friendly rent lets you manage food, books, and data costs more easily.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Pro tip:<\/strong> Always check whether accommodation is NSFAS-accredited before signing a lease.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"gaute-970652505\" class=\"gaute-inbetween-content gaute-entity-placement\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;margin-left: auto;margin-right: auto;text-align: center;\"><div class=\"gaute-adlabel\">Advertisement<\/div><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-1852772760112594\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-1852772760112594\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"1819787043\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div><h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-option-1-south-point-student-accommodation\">Option 1: South Point Student Accommodation<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Overview:<\/strong><br>South Point is one of the most popular and well-established student accommodation providers near Wits. With several buildings in Braamfontein, including The Grove, The Fields, and Jorissen Place, South Point offers secure, fully furnished apartments.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Why It&#8217;s Affordable:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Shared units from <strong>R3,200\u2013R4,400 per month<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Includes water and electricity<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Free WiFi and study spaces<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>NSFAS Compatibility:<\/strong><br>NSFAS-accredited (confirm availability during registration)<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Website:<\/strong> <a class=\"\" href=\"http:\/\/www.staysouthpoint.co.za\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">www.staysouthpoint.co.za<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Testimonial:<\/strong><br><em>\u201cI\u2019ve been living at The Grove for almost a year now, and I couldn\u2019t be happier. The location is perfect for getting to class quickly, and the rent is affordable considering it includes everything. The Wi-Fi and study spaces are a huge plus. I\u2019d definitely recommend it to anyone needing a secure place near Wits.\u201d<\/em><br>\u2013 Sarah M., 2nd-year Engineering student.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-option-2-apex-studios\">Option 2: Apex Studios<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Overview:<\/strong><br>Apex Studios offers modern studio and shared apartments just a few minutes\u2019 walk from Wits Main Campus. It\u2019s perfect for students who want peace and quiet.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Pricing &amp; Features:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Shared units from <strong>R3,000 per month<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Studio units from <strong>R4,500 per month<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Access to communal kitchens, laundry, and biometric security<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>What Makes It Special:<\/strong><br>All-inclusive rent<br>Quiet environment suitable for final-year or postgrad students<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Check their site or social media for mid-year specials and application deadlines.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Testimonial:<\/strong><br><em>\u201cApex Studios offers a quiet and peaceful environment, which is exactly what I needed as a postgraduate student. The communal kitchen is well-equipped, and the security system makes me feel safe. It\u2019s also great to have everything included in one payment, so budgeting is easy.\u201d<\/em><br>\u2013 Thabo S., Master&#8217;s student in Law.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"gaute-830737479\" class=\"gaute-inbetween-content gaute-entity-placement\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;margin-left: auto;margin-right: auto;text-align: center;\"><div class=\"gaute-adlabel\">Advertisement<\/div><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-1852772760112594\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-1852772760112594\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"1819787043\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div><h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-option-3-campus-africa\">Option 3: Campus Africa<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Overview:<\/strong><br>Campus Africa is an affordable accommodation provider focused on international and local students. They offer multiple locations around Braamfontein.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Room Options:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Twin and triple shared rooms from <strong>R2,800\/month<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>En-suite and single rooms from <strong>R4,000\/month<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Services:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Free shuttle to Wits<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>24\/7 security<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Furnished rooms and optional catering<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Website:<\/strong> <a class=\"\" href=\"http:\/\/www.campusafrica.co.za\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">www.campusafrica.co.za<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Testimonial:<\/strong><br><em>\u201cI stayed at Campus Africa for a semester, and I loved it. The shuttle service to Wits was super convenient, and the rooms were clean and well-maintained. The security team was always around, and I felt safe walking back at night.\u201d<\/em><br>\u2013 Lily N., International student from Kenya.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-option-4-ymca-braamfontein\">Option 4: YMCA Braamfontein<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Overview:<\/strong><br>YMCA Johannesburg is a hidden gem for students on a tight budget. Located just a short walk from Wits, it offers simple, clean, and secure rooms.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Affordable Rates:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Single rooms from <strong>R2,500 per month<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Community Perks:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Study halls, mentorship programmes, and community outreach<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Website:<\/strong> <a class=\"\" href=\"http:\/\/www.johannesburgymca.org\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">www.johannesburgymca.org<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Testimonial:<\/strong><br><em>\u201cYMCA Braamfontein was my first student accommodation in Johannesburg, and it exceeded my expectations. The community vibe is fantastic, and the study halls were perfect for late-night sessions. Plus, the price was extremely affordable compared to other places nearby.\u201d<\/em><br>\u2013 John P., 1st-year Computer Science student.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"gaute-3291914199\" class=\"gaute-inbetween-content gaute-entity-placement\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;margin-left: auto;margin-right: auto;text-align: center;\"><div class=\"gaute-adlabel\">Advertisement<\/div><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-1852772760112594\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-1852772760112594\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"1819787043\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div><h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-option-5-digsconnect-shared-flats\">Option 5: DigsConnect Shared Flats<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Overview:<\/strong><br>DigsConnect is an online platform that matches students with landlords offering affordable rooms and shared flats near universities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Benefits:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Search by distance to Wits<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Find rooms from <strong>R2,800\/month<\/strong> in shared flats<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Filter by NSFAS-friendly, furnished, or female-only<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>How It Works:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Visit <a class=\"\" href=\"http:\/\/www.digsconnect.com\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">www.digsconnect.com<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Enter \u201cWits\u201d and your monthly budget<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Chat directly with verified landlords<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Always verify safety, contracts, and house rules before moving in.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Testimonial:<\/strong><br><em>\u201cI found my place through DigsConnect, and it made the process so much easier. I was able to find a flat just a 10-minute walk from campus that\u2019s within my budget. The platform made it easy to talk directly to the landlord and get all my questions answered before committing.\u201d<\/em><br>\u2013 Jessica T., 3rd-year Accounting student.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-how-to-choose-the-right-option-for-you\">How to Choose the Right Option for You<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Beyond the Basics: Addressing Real Housing Challenges<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>While finding affordable housing near Wits is important, there are common challenges students face that go beyond just choosing a place. Here are some deeper issues students often encounter and how to handle them:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-1-dealing-with-landlord-disputes\"><strong>1. Dealing with Landlord Disputes<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Issue:<\/strong><br>Landlord disputes are an unfortunate but common reality for many tenants. From disagreements over the return of deposits to issues with the condition of the property, handling these disputes effectively is crucial.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>How to Handle It:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Know Your Rights<\/strong>: As a tenant, you have rights under South African rental law. These include the right to a safe and habitable living space and the right to have your deposit returned if you\u2019ve met your obligations.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Document Everything<\/strong>: Keep a record of all communication with your landlord, including emails and texts. Take photos of any damage or issues in the property when you move in and before moving out.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Deposit Protection<\/strong>: If your landlord is refusing to return your deposit unfairly, contact the Rental Housing Tribunal for assistance. They can help mediate disputes and ensure that your deposit is handled correctly.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Seek Legal Help<\/strong>: If disputes escalate, consider seeking help from the Wits Legal Aid Centre or other local legal resources that provide free or affordable advice for students.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Testimonial:<\/strong><br><em>\u201cI had an issue with my landlord withholding my deposit after I moved out, claiming the apartment wasn\u2019t clean enough. I took photos of the apartment when I left, showing it was in good condition. After contacting the Rental Housing Tribunal, I was able to get my full deposit back.\u201d<\/em><br>\u2013 Andile M., 3rd-year student, Accounting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-2-protecting-yourself-from-accommodation-scams\"><strong>2. Protecting Yourself from Accommodation Scams<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Issue:<\/strong><br>With the rise of online platforms like DigsConnect, students are now more vulnerable to accommodation scams. Landlords may ask for deposits upfront or provide fake listings, leaving students without accommodation and out of pocket.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>How to Handle It:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Always Visit the Property First<\/strong>: Never commit to paying a deposit before seeing the property in person, or at least arranging a virtual tour if you can\u2019t visit right away. Scammers often use attractive photos and descriptions to lure students.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Research the Landlord<\/strong>: Look up reviews or feedback from previous tenants. If the landlord is reputable, there will likely be some online record or word-of-mouth reputation.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Verify the Listing<\/strong>: Use official student housing platforms like the Wits Accommodation Office\u2019s approved list, and make sure the property is listed as legitimate. Always check the status of any property through reliable channels.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Never Pay Cash<\/strong>: Avoid paying cash for deposits or rent. Always request a receipt and pay through secure channels, like bank transfers, which can be traced.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Use Trusted Platforms<\/strong>: Stick to well-established accommodation platforms, and verify that they have proper checks in place to protect tenants. Platforms like DigsConnect offer secure messaging and verified listings to reduce the risk of scams.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Testimonial:<\/strong><br><em>\u201cI almost fell for a scam when I found a room listed on a Facebook group. The landlord seemed eager to get a deposit, but I checked the property against DigsConnect and found it didn\u2019t exist. It was a relief to avoid that situation, but it made me realize how important it is to do proper research before committing.\u201d<\/em><br>\u2013 Sipho L., 2nd-year student, Engineering.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-3-navigating-rent-increases-and-lease-renewals\"><strong>3. Navigating Rent Increases and Lease Renewals<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Issue:<\/strong><br>Rent increases and lease renewals are common issues students face, especially when staying for a longer period. Rent hikes can affect a tight student budget, and navigating the lease renewal process can sometimes feel confusing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>How to Handle It:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Understand Your Lease<\/strong>: Before signing any lease, make sure you understand the terms, particularly about rent increases. Many leases have clauses that specify when and how rent increases can be applied, and there are laws regulating how much rent can increase within a certain period.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Negotiate<\/strong>: If you\u2019re facing a rent increase that you feel is unjustified or unaffordable, don\u2019t be afraid to negotiate. You may be able to negotiate a lower increase or secure a longer lease term at a fixed rate.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Get Rent Increases in Writing<\/strong>: If your landlord increases your rent, ensure it\u2019s done in writing and that you\u2019re given adequate notice. In South Africa, landlords must give you at least one month\u2019s notice if they plan to increase the rent during the lease period.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Know the Rental Housing Act<\/strong>: According to the South African Rental Housing Act, your landlord cannot simply increase the rent whenever they want. They must do so within the conditions of the lease and in a fair manner.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Testimonial:<\/strong><br><em>\u201cMy rent was increased halfway through my second year, and I wasn\u2019t happy about it. I asked my landlord to provide a written justification for the hike, and I was able to negotiate a smaller increase. Knowing my rights really helped.\u201d<\/em><br>\u2013 Leah R., 2nd-year student, History.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"gaute-3389089624\" class=\"gaute-inbetween-content gaute-entity-placement\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;margin-left: auto;margin-right: auto;text-align: center;\"><div class=\"gaute-adlabel\">Advertisement<\/div><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-1852772760112594\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-1852772760112594\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"1819787043\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div><h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-nsfas-and-accommodation-what-you-need-to-know\">NSFAS and Accommodation: What You Need to Know<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Beyond the general advice, understanding the nuances of dealing with NSFAS funding and accommodation is vital. Students often struggle with last-minute approvals and unconfirmed accommodations, so it\u2019s crucial to start the search early and stay in regular communication with both the financial aid office and your accommodation provider.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Also check: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nasi-ispani.co.za\/nsfas-accredited-accommodation-rules\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">NSFAS Funded Students Must Adhere to Accredited Accommodation Rules<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Finding affordable accommodation near Wits can be a challenge, but with the right knowledge and preparation, you can find a safe, secure, and budget-friendly place to live. Remember, it\u2019s not just about the cost\u2014look for housing that supports your academic success and well-being.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>By understanding your rights, avoiding scams, and navigating common housing challenges, you\u2019ll be able to find the best option for you, whether you\u2019re paying privately, using NSFAS funding, or sharing with friends. Don\u2019t rush the process\u2014start early, and make informed decisions to ensure your university experience is as smooth as possible.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Read more: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/differences-in-application-processes-at-uj-up-and-wits\/\">Differences in Application Processes at UJ, UP, and Wits<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/differences-in-application-processes-at-uj-up-and-wits\/\">Read More \u00bb<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Discover affordable student accommodation options near the University of the Witwatersrand (Wits) in Johannesburg. Explore secure, budget-friendly choices with insights on NSFAS compatibility, student reviews, and tips to avoid scams.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":13,"featured_media":17465,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"rank_math_focus_keyword":"","rank_math_title":"","rank_math_description":"Discover affordable student accommodation options near the University of the Witwatersrand (Wits) in Johannesburg. 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