Real Estate in Liberia
Last updated on Nov 24, 2023
Summary: An expat looking to buy a home in Liberia should start by researching the local real estate market. They should look for listings on websites such as Zillow, Trulia, and Realtor.com. It is also a good idea to contact a local real estate agent who can provide more information about the area and help with the search. Homes in Liberia typically include basic amenities such as running water, electricity, and a kitchen. Many homes also have air conditioning, a garden, and a garage. Foreigners are allowed to own property in Liberia, but there are certain restrictions. For example, foreigners are not allowed to own land in Liberia, but they can own buildings and other structures. Additionally, foreigners must obtain a permit from the Ministry of Lands, Mines, and Energy before they can purchase a property.
How do I find a place to live in Liberia?
We asked expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:
"One of the best ways to find a place to live in Liberia is to contact a local real estate agent or property management company. They will be able to provide you with information about available rental properties in the area, as well as advice on the best neighborhoods to live in. Additionally, you can search online for rental listings in Liberia, or ask friends and family who may already live in the country for recommendations," remarked one member in Liberia.
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What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Liberia?
"Expat homes and apartments in Liberia tend to be modern and comfortable, with air conditioning, internet access, and other amenities. Many expats choose to live in gated communities, which offer a greater sense of security and privacy. Expat homes and apartments often come with a variety of amenities, such as swimming pools, gyms, and other recreational facilities. Expats also have access to a wide range of international restaurants, shops, and other services," said one person in Liberia.
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What is the average cost of housing in Liberia?
If you are thinking about moving to Liberia, cost of living in probably a key consideration. Expats commented about the cost of housing:
"The cost of housing in Liberia varies greatly depending on the location and type of housing. Generally, housing in Liberia is relatively inexpensive compared to other countries, with basic housing costing around $50 to $100 per month. However, more luxurious housing can cost up to several hundred dollars per month," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Liberia.
Should I buy or rent a home in Liberia?
If you have not spent a lot of time in Liberia, you should rent before even thinking about buying. We asked expats there about the buy vs. rent decision:
"When deciding whether to buy or rent a home in Liberia, it is important to consider your financial situation, lifestyle, and long-term goals. Buying a home can be a great investment, as it can provide you with a stable place to live and the potential for appreciation in value. However, it also requires a large upfront investment and ongoing maintenance costs. Renting a home can be a more affordable option, as it requires less of an upfront investment and no maintenance costs. However, it does not provide the same potential for appreciation in value. Ultimately, the decision to buy or rent a home in Liberia should be based on your individual needs and preferences," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Liberia.
What do I need to know when buying property in Liberia?
When we asked expats what advice they would give a foreigner before buying a property in Liberia, they said:
"1. It is important to research the local laws and regulations regarding property ownership in Liberia before making any purchase. 2. It is also important to ensure that the property is free from any liens or encumbrances. 3. It is advisable to hire a local lawyer to assist with the purchase process and to ensure that all legal requirements are met. 4. It is important to obtain a title search to ensure that the property is legally owned by the seller. 5. It is also important to obtain a survey of the property to ensure that the boundaries are accurate and that there are no encroachments. 6. It is important to obtain a Certificate of Occupancy from the local government to ensure that the property is zoned for the intended use. 7. It is also important to obtain a Certificate of Good Standing from the Ministry of Lands, Mines and Energy to ensure that the property is not subject to any mining or mineral rights. 8. It is important to obtain a Certificate of Tax Clearance from the Ministry of Finance to ensure that all taxes and fees associated with the property have been paid. 9. It is also important to obtain a Certificate of Registration from the Ministry of Justice to ensure that the property is properly registered. 10. It is important to obtain a Certificate of Insurance from a local insurance company to ensure that the property is adequately insured," explained one person living in Liberia.
Are foreigners allowed to own property in Liberia?
When we asked expats what advice they would give a foreigner before buying a property in Liberia, they said...
"Yes, foreigners are allowed to own property in Liberia. The Land Rights Act of 2009 grants foreign investors the right to own land in Liberia, provided they obtain the necessary permits and licenses from the government. Foreigners may also purchase property through a Liberian corporation or a Liberian citizen who is acting as a trustee. However, the government does not allow foreigners to own land in certain areas, such as near the coast or in areas of strategic importance," said one expat in Liberia.
What appliances are typically included in a rental?
We asked foreigners in Liberia what appliances are typically included in a rental, and, if there is anything else included or not included that a newcomer would not expect. Replies included:
"Rental properties in Liberia typically include a refrigerator, stove, oven, and washing machine. Other common appliances may include a microwave, dishwasher, and air conditioning unit. Depending on the property, additional amenities such as a hot water heater, water filter, and generator may also be included," said one in Liberia.
Additional Information about Searching for a Home in Liberia:
We asked foreigners in Liberia what appliances are typically included in a rental, and, if there is anything else included or not included that a newcomer would not expect. Replies included...
"Expats can search for homes in Liberia by looking online for real estate listings, contacting local real estate agents, and asking other expats for recommendations. Additionally, expats can look for rental listings in newspapers, online forums, and social media groups. It is also possible to find housing through word of mouth, by asking friends and family who may have connections in Liberia," wrote one expat who made the move to Liberia.
About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is one of the founders of Digital Nomad Exchange and the Founder and President of Expat Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange and Digital Nomad Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.
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