Buying and renting property in Tunisia
Tunisia is a great place to visit and an excellent country to invest in. The tourist industry is booming due to its Mediterranean temperatures, great locations and quality developments and redevelopments of many locations funded by the government and investors. With the popularity of Tunisia growing all the time and more people traveling to Tunisia each year, investing into Tunisia is a real possibility, with many chances to buy property in top locations, like Djerba, Monastir and Hammamet. With property in locations like these it can be easily rented out as holiday homes. Buying property is becoming easier for foreigners although there are still strict guidelines but with a lawyer and help from agencies it is very achievable.Can a British Citizen own property in Tunisia?
Yes, as long as it is within town boundaries. A non-Tunisian cannot own agricultural land.
Are there formalities specific to a foreigner as regards owning property?
Yes. A written authorisation is required from the Governor of the region. This may take several months. We strongly advice that you do not, in any circumstances, agree to purchase land or property in someone else's name pending formalities. Hand over no money until you have seen, and all parties concerned have signed proper deeds of sale. Accept no promises not supported by legal documents, however friendly your associate. If he/she is serious, you should expect this to be seen in legal paperwork.
How can I find a house or apartment or land for sale?
Daily newspapers run small ads which are often helpful. Or you could place an ad yourself in, for example, "La Presse" (6 Rue Ali Bach Hamba, Tunis). House agents exist in all towns and larger villages and are often listed (under "agences immobili?res") in the phone book. You may consult them, or ask around in the locality you are interested in.
What about prices?
As you would expect these vary so much, depending on locality, size, age and building materials. Only by looking around locally will you get any idea.
What form would payment be expected in?
By arrangement. If payment in sterling is being transferred for the purpose, consult a bank and/or a lawyer before committing your capital.
What about resale, transfer of proceeds of sale or of rents, title deeds, rights to expand or modify existing constructions?
Answers to any of these questions should be sought from a lawyer. A list of local lawyers is available from this link, if required.
What are rental procedures?
A contract is drawn up between the landlord and the tenant, setting out the agreed rent and other conditions such as length of tenancy, renewal of lease, redecoration etc. The contract needs to be registered at the local town hall. Your landlord will normally do it but may charge you a proportion of the fees.
Can I get advice on the terms of the contract before signing?
Yes, and we certainly do advise you to consult a local lawyer on this.
Information from www.britishembassy.gov.uk/tunisia
As well as this information please use our forums at www.tunisia.com where you can ask questions and chat about your plans for buying property in Tunisia.
There is also the Channel 4 property forum for you to get further information. www.channel4.com
For a list of properties for sale and to rent please visit our properties section http://properties.Tunisia.com
