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Real Estate in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia | Digital Nomad Exchange
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Real Estate in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

By Betsy Burlingame

Last updated on Dec 02, 2024

Summary: The average cost of a nice 2 bedroom home in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia is around $100,000 USD. A nice 3 bedroom home in Addis Ababa is around $150,000 USD. These properties typically include modern amenities such as air conditioning, internet access, and modern appliances. There are no restrictions on foreign ownership for properties in Addis Ababa. Expats should search for a home to buy in Addis Ababa by using online real estate websites, such as Zillow, or by contacting a local real estate agent. The most desirable neighborhoods in Addis Ababa are Bole, CMC, and Saris. These neighborhoods are known for their modern amenities, safety, and convenience.

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How do I find a place to live in Addis Ababa?

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 Addis Ababa is to search online for rental listings. There are many websites that offer listings for apartments, houses, and other types of rental properties in the city. Additionally, you can also search for rental listings in local newspapers and classifieds. Additionally, you can also ask friends and family who live in the city for recommendations. Finally, you can also contact local real estate agents who can help you find a suitable place to live in Addis Ababa," said one expat who made the move to Addis Ababa.

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What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Addis Ababa?

"Expat homes and apartments in Addis Ababa are typically modern and comfortable. Many expats choose to live in the city center, where they can enjoy easy access to amenities such as restaurants, shops, and entertainment. Expat homes and apartments often feature modern appliances, air conditioning, and internet access. Many expats also choose to live in gated communities, which offer additional security and privacy," said one person in Addis Ababa.

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What is the average cost of housing in Addis Ababa?

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

"The cost of housing in Addis Ababa varies depending on the location and type of housing. Generally, the cost of renting an apartment in the city center is higher than in the suburbs. Prices for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center range from around $200 to $500 per month, while a one-bedroom apartment in the suburbs can cost between $100 and $300 per month," explained one expat living in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

Should I buy or rent a home in Addis Ababa?

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

"Buying a home in Addis Ababa can be a great investment, as the city is growing rapidly and property values are increasing. However, it is important to consider the cost of living in the city, as well as the availability of housing. Renting may be a more cost-effective option for those who are not ready to commit to a long-term purchase. Additionally, renting can provide more flexibility and allow for more mobility if you are looking to move in the near future. Ultimately, the decision to buy or rent a home in Addis Ababa should be based on your individual needs and financial situation," explained one expat living in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

What do I need to know when buying property in Addis Ababa?

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

"1. When buying property in Addis Ababa, it is important to ensure that you have a clear understanding of local laws and regulations. 2. It is also essential to hire an experienced local real estate lawyer to help you navigate the process and rights associated with buying property. 3. Make sure to research the area where you are buying to get an understanding of potential risks, such as flooding or infrastructure projects that could affect the property value. 4. Consider the local culture when choosing property. For example, it is important to understand the traditions and expectations around the transfer of ownership in Ethiopia. 5. When it comes to payments, it is important to make sure that the transaction is fully above board and that all money is held in escrow until the completion of the transaction. 6. Finally, it is always important to ensure that you have all the paperwork necessary to prove your ownership, after the transaction is complete," said one in Addis Ababa.

Are foreigners allowed to own property in Addis Ababa?

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

"Foreigners are generally not allowed to own land or property in Addis Ababa. The Ethiopian government maintains strict control over land ownership, and land is primarily owned by the state or local communities. Foreigners can, however, lease land for residential, commercial, or industrial purposes. These lease agreements can last for several decades, allowing foreigners to build and develop properties on the leased land. However, the ownership of the land itself remains with the Ethiopian government," explained one expat in Addis Ababa.

What appliances are typically included in a rental?

We asked foreigners in Addis Ababa 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:

"When renting a home in Addis Ababa, common appliances that could be included in the rental property are a refrigerator, an oven, a stove, a washing machine, and a television. It is not uncommon for some rental properties to also include air conditioning units, microwaves, and additional television sets," explained one foreigner living in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

Additional Information about Searching for a Home in Addis Ababa:

We asked foreigners in Addis Ababa 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 searching for homes in Addis Ababa typically start by researching online through various property listing websites and local real estate agencies. They may also join expat forums and social media groups to gather recommendations and insights from fellow expats who have already gone through the process. Additionally, they may seek the assistance of local real estate agents who have experience working with foreigners and can help navigate the local housing market. Word of mouth and networking with other expats and locals can also be helpful in finding suitable housing options. Once they have identified potential homes, expats usually schedule visits to view the properties in person before making a decision," said one foreigner living in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

About the Author

Betsy Burlingame 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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