Buying property in Morocco

Buying Property in Morocco

The property purchase process in Morocco can be fairly complicated, and it is a good idea to have an English speaking lawyer. Foreigners may purchase property in Morocco, but they can not buy agricultural land. It is a good idea to have a Moroccan bank account with a bank that can convert foreign currency to the Dirham. If you are interested in older property, it is also a good idea to have an agent to help you get the best price, though most agents do not speak English.

Once you have found a property, your lawyer should perform a title search. This can be a bit tricky in Morocco, as in some places there are no official titles but “scrolls” that relate the title. Once one of these properties has been acquired, it is possible to get a title through a notary. It is vital to perform the title search prior to making any offer, and the legality of the sale should be validated by the buyer’s lawyer or solicitor. With off plan properties this process is much simpler and easier to validate.

After finding a property, checking its title and inspecting it, an official offer is made. If accepted, often a substantial deposit is made and the sale is closed immediately. This is done to ensure the sale, but it will obviously take time for the owner to move out. A notary will prepare the sale papers and acts for both sides. Signing the sales agreement and deed should be done in front of the notary.

Once the final agreement is signed, then the buyer has 30 days to register the property and pay the registration fees. If the previous owner has not moved out, then the taxes should not be paid and your lawyer can advise you how to proceed. After the sale is registered, the buyer can then apply for a listing of the registered deed to the land office. Registration fees, notary expenses and other costs amount to about 8% of the property cost.

Useful Morocco resources

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