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Real Estate in Kazakhstan | Digital Nomad Exchange
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Panfilova Street in Almaty, Kazakhstan

Real Estate in Kazakhstan

By Joshua Wood, LPC

Last updated on Mar 05, 2024

Summary: An expat looking to buy a home in Kazakhstan should begin by researching the local real estate market. They should look for listings on websites such as Zillow, Trulia, and Realtor.com, as well as local real estate agents. Foreigners are allowed to own property in Kazakhstan, but there are some restrictions. For example, foreigners are not allowed to own land, and they must obtain a special permit from the government in order to purchase a property. Houses in Kazakhstan typically include amenities such as air conditioning, central heating, and modern appliances. Many homes also have balconies, terraces, and gardens.

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How do I find a place to live in Kazakhstan?

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 Kazakhstan is to use online resources such as websites and social media. Websites such as Expat.com, ExpatRentals.com, and RealEstate.kz are great resources for finding rental properties in Kazakhstan. Additionally, social media platforms such as Facebook and Instagram can be used to search for rental properties in Kazakhstan. Additionally, it is possible to find a place to live in Kazakhstan by asking around in the local community. Many people in Kazakhstan are willing to help expats find a place to live, and it is possible to find a place to live through word of mouth," said one person in Kazakhstan.

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What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Kazakhstan?

"Expat homes and apartments in Kazakhstan tend to be modern and comfortable, with many featuring modern amenities such as air conditioning, high-speed internet, and satellite television. Expats often choose to live in larger cities such as Almaty and Astana, where they can find a wide range of housing options, from luxury apartments to more affordable options. Expats can also find furnished apartments, which are often equipped with basic furniture and appliances. Many expats also choose to live in gated communities, which offer a greater sense of security and privacy," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Kazakhstan.

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What is the average cost of housing in Kazakhstan?

If you are thinking about moving to Kazakhstan, cost of living in probably a key consideration. Expats commented about the cost of housing:

"The cost of housing in Kazakhstan varies depending on the location and type of property. Generally, the cost of renting an apartment in Kazakhstan is relatively affordable compared to other countries in the region. Prices for apartments in the capital city of Astana and Almaty, the largest city in Kazakhstan, tend to be higher than in other parts of the country. However, there are still many affordable options available for those looking to rent or buy a home in Kazakhstan," said one person in Kazakhstan.

Should I buy or rent a home in Kazakhstan?

If you have not spent a lot of time in Kazakhstan, you should rent before even thinking about buying. We asked expats there about the buy vs. rent decision:

"Buying a home in Kazakhstan can be a great investment, as the country is experiencing strong economic growth and real estate prices are on the rise. However, it is important to consider the cost of living in the area and the availability of financing before making a decision. Renting a home in Kazakhstan can be a more affordable option, as it allows you to enjoy the benefits of living in the country without the long-term commitment of buying a home. Additionally, renting can provide more flexibility if you are unsure of how long you will be staying in the country. Ultimately, the decision to buy or rent a home in Kazakhstan should be based on your individual needs and financial situation," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Kazakhstan.

What do I need to know when buying property in Kazakhstan?

When we asked expats what advice they would give a foreigner before buying a property in Kazakhstan, they said:

"1. It is important to research the local market and understand the current trends in the area before making a purchase. 2. It is important to understand the legal requirements for purchasing property in Kazakhstan, including any taxes or fees that may be applicable. 3. It is important to have a clear understanding of the property's title and any restrictions that may be in place. 4. It is important to have a clear understanding of the local infrastructure and services available in the area. 5. It is important to have a clear understanding of the local zoning regulations and any restrictions that may be in place. 6. It is important to have a clear understanding of the local building codes and any restrictions that may be in place. 7. It is important to have a clear understanding of the local environmental regulations and any restrictions that may be in place. 8. It is important to have a clear understanding of the local banking regulations and any restrictions that may be in place. 9. It is important to have a clear understanding of the local currency exchange regulations and any restrictions that may be in place. 10. It is important to have a clear understanding of the local rental regulations and any restrictions that may be in place," explained one person living in Kazakhstan.

Are foreigners allowed to own property in Kazakhstan?

When we asked expats what advice they would give a foreigner before buying a property in Kazakhstan, they said...

"Yes, foreigners are allowed to own property in Kazakhstan. The country has a liberal foreign investment policy, and foreign investors are allowed to purchase real estate in Kazakhstan. However, there are certain restrictions in place. For example, foreigners are not allowed to own agricultural land, and they must obtain permission from the government before purchasing any property. Additionally, foreign investors must register their property with the local authorities and pay taxes on their investments," explained one expat in Kazakhstan.

What appliances are typically included in a rental?

We asked foreigners in Kazakhstan 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:

"In Kazakhstan, rental properties typically include a refrigerator, stove, oven, washing machine, and air conditioning unit. Other common appliances may include a microwave, dishwasher, and water heater. Depending on the property, additional amenities such as a television, internet access, and furniture may also be included," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Kazakhstan.

Additional Information about Searching for a Home in Kazakhstan:

We asked foreigners in Kazakhstan 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 Kazakhstan by looking online for real estate websites that specialize in the area, such as Zingaya.com or Kolesa.kz. They can also search for rental listings on websites such as Expat.com or ExpatRentals.com. Additionally, expats can contact local real estate agents who specialize in helping expats find homes in Kazakhstan," said one person in Kazakhstan.

About the Author

Joshua Wood Joshua Wood, LPC is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange and serves as Co-President of Expat Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange and Digital Nomad Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.

Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.

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Panfilova Street in Almaty, Kazakhstan

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Contribute to Kazakhstan Network Contribute
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