Maputo
Buy house or flat in Maputo
Owning Land in Mozambique
Foreigners are permitted to lease land from the Mozambican government for a period of 50 years, which is then renewable for another 50. The right of use land title is called a DUAT (Direito de uso e approveitamento da terra). In order to obtain a DUAT, you must meet one of the following four criteria:
- You have a registered business in Mozambique
- You are a part of an existing resort or development company that already has a DUAT
- You have been a Mozambican resident for a t least 5 years
- You are in a partnership with a local Mozambican citizen.
If the person selling you the land is unable to produce a DUAT, they are not legally allowed to sell the land.
Once you have the DUAT, you can then build on the land. You will own any infrastructure built or bought.
Housing Market in Mozambique
The emerging middle class and the growing expatriate community in Mozambique has led to high demand on the national housing market. Local companies and the government are working hard to meet this demand, but there remains a housing shortage.
Prices generally range between USD 100,000 - USD 400,000 for a 3 or 4 bedroom house in a nice neighbourhood.
How to Search for Real Estate in Mozambique
Online Listing
There are a number of online websites that focus on buying property in Mozambique. They include:
Another great online resource is the Mozambique classifieds on EasyExpat. You can also chat with other expats on the Mozambique forum or network and receive advice.
Newspapers
O Noticias has a classified section in their print-version that advertises rental properties. The classifieds posted online are extremely out of date.
Public Postings
Public postings and personal networks is, like with renting, a popular and easier way to find homes for sale. Keep an eye out for fliers at expat hangouts in Maputo, and be sure to ask around. Word of mouth can be very helpful when it comes to navigating the real estate market.
Estate Agent
There are a few estate agents located in Maputo. Typically, they work for a 5% commission. The estate agency market is currently unregulated.
Try to gather recommendations from friends or family in country, and ask your work/volunteer organization for recommendations. Your chances of finding a reputable agent are much better if they have been vouched for by someone you know.
Making an Offer
To complete the transaction, you will then need to complete the following steps, which are further outlined by the World Bank Group.
- Obtain a tax certificate from the Tax Authority
- Obtain a Real Estate Registry certificate
- Have a lawyer prepare the draft sale and purchase agreement
- Pay the transfer tax at the Municipal Tax Office
- Submit a draft of the sale and purchase agreement to the public notary
- Apply to register the building at the Real Estate Registry Office
It is essential you follow these steps properly. If you fail to transfer the DUAT into your name, you will not be able to sell the property in the future.
You will also need to organize permits, again with a local professional. This will ensure that you follow any building codes/laws. If you are building a home, you will also need to familiarize yourself with the rules that govern how and when you can/must build.
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