Senegal is a fascinating country, and not just for its rich history and culture. More and more French people are drawn to its climate , its magnificent landscapes , and the generosity of its people (also known as " Teranga "). Some end up falling in love with the country and consider making it their home. For others, returning to their country of origin after a period of living in France, buying a house in Senegal is an essential step in realizing their life plans. This detailed guide is for anyone wishing to buy a house in Senegal from France , whether they are French or Senegalese citizens.
Senegalese real estate and legislation
First, it is essential to understand the Senegalese real estate system before undertaking such a process. Senegalese real estate law is very similar to that of France. In Senegal, as in France, the notary plays a crucial role in the real estate sales . Not only is the notary responsible for authenticating and formalizing the sale , but they are also responsible for registering the new owner in the land registry . Without their involvement, the deed of sale has no legal value.
The steps to buy a house in Senegal from France
If you are considering buying a house in Senegal from France, here are the steps you will need to follow:
- The search : Start by looking for a property that meets your needs and budget. You can do this online by visiting real estate listing websites , forums, and Facebook pages dedicated to real estate in Senegal . You can also use a real estate agency to help you with your search.
- The viewing : Once you have found a property you like, the next step is to visit and inspect it thoroughly. If you are not available to do so yourself, you can appoint a trusted third party to do it for you.
- Negotiation and offer : If the property meets your expectations, you can then begin negotiations with the seller and make a purchase offer.
- The sales contract : If the seller accepts your offer, the next step is to draw up the sales contract . This document must be drawn up by a notary and must include all the details of the sale.
- Payment : Once the sales contract is signed, you can proceed with payment . For security reasons, it is recommended to make the payment by bank transfer.
Finding a property in Senegal
The first step in buying a house in Senegal is finding the property that meets your needs. Fortunately, with modern technology, this task has become much easier. Numerous listing websites allow you to browse a wide range of properties available for sale in Senegal. You can also look on sites like Keur-Immo , which are exclusively dedicated to real estate listings. Real estate forums and Facebook pages can also be a valuable source of information.
However, caution is advised when searching online. Be wary of offers that seem too good to be true and always verify the information provided by the seller. If you are not in the area, it is always best to ask a friend or family member to physically visit the property that has caught your eye.
The costs associated with buying a house in Senegal
Buying a house in Senegal involves several costs that you must consider when planning your budget . The price of the house itself is, of course, the most obvious cost, but there are also several additional expenses to take into account.
The cost of a house in Senegal varies depending on many factors, including location , size, and amenities. For example, in Dakar , where demand for real estate is very high, houses can cost up to €500,000 and even more in the most upscale neighborhoods like Almadies !
In addition to the cost of the house, you will also have to pay notary fees , requisition and real rights fees , registration fees and land registration fees, as well as stamp duties .
If you are considering financing your purchase with a mortgage , you will also need to take into account the costs associated with that loan.
Financing options for buying a house in Senegal
If you don't have the necessary funds to pay for your house in Senegal upfront, you can consider taking out a loan . You can choose to borrow from a Senegalese bank . It's important to know that no French bank will lend you money for a property purchase in Senegal.
Like French banks, Senegalese banks consider several factors to assess your creditworthiness , including the stability of your income, your debt-to-income ratio, your credit history, and your disposable income . Mortgage rates in Senegal average 8% .
Buying a home in Senegal as a French citizen can be a complex process, but with the right information and preparation, it can go smoothly. Whether you're drawn to the vibrancy of Dakar, the tranquility of the Saloum Islands, the charm of historic cities like Saint-Louis, or the beaches of Saly , there's a property for you in Senegal. A wonderful adventure awaits, a step towards a new life under the Senegalese sun.
It is always recommended to thoroughly research local regulations, ensure the legality of the sale, and consult qualified professionals throughout the process. By following these recommendations, you can realize your dream of homeownership in Senegal with complete peace of mind.
Summary:
To buy a house in Senegal as a French citizen, here are the key steps to follow:
- Do some research to find the property that matches your expectations and budget.
- Visit and inspect the property, either personally or by delegating this task to a trusted person on site.
- Negotiate the price with the seller and make a purchase offer.
- Drafting a sales contract with the help of a Senegalese notary.
- Pay the sale price, preferably by bank transfer for security reasons.
Finally, don't forget to factor in all the costs associated with buying a house in Senegal, including notary fees and other administrative costs. If you plan to finance your purchase with a mortgage, remember to also consider the associated costs.
By following these tips and exercising diligence and patience, you can realize your dream of buying a house in Senegal and fully enjoy everything this beautiful country has to offer. Good luck!
All houses for sale in Senegal.