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Real Estate in Ethiopia | Expat Exchange
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Real Estate in Ethiopia

By Betsy Burlingame

Last updated on Sep 22, 2023

Summary: An expat looking to buy a home in Ethiopia should start 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. Homes in Ethiopia typically include basic amenities such as running water, electricity, and a kitchen. Some homes may also include air conditioning, a garden, and a garage. Foreigners are allowed to own property in Ethiopia, but there are certain restrictions. For example, foreigners are not allowed to own land, and they must obtain permission from the Ethiopian government before purchasing a home.

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How do I find a place to live in Ethiopia?

We asked expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:

"Finding a place to live in Ethiopia can be a challenge, but there are a few options available. One option is to look for rental properties in the major cities such as Addis Ababa, Dire Dawa, and Mekelle. You can search online for rental listings or contact a local real estate agent for assistance. Another option is to look for furnished apartments or houses for rent in the suburbs of the major cities. You can also look for shared housing options such as hostels, guesthouses, and homestays. Finally, you can look for long-term rental options in rural areas, which may be more affordable than urban areas," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Ethiopia.

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

"Expat homes and apartments in Ethiopia tend to be modern and comfortable, with amenities such as air conditioning, internet access, and satellite television. Many expats choose to live in gated communities, which offer additional security and access to amenities such as swimming pools and gyms. Expat homes and apartments in Ethiopia are typically spacious and well-furnished, with plenty of room for entertaining guests," said one person in Ethiopia.

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What is the average cost of housing in Ethiopia?

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

"The cost of housing in Ethiopia varies greatly depending on the location and type of housing. Generally, housing in Ethiopia is relatively inexpensive compared to other countries, with basic housing costing significantly less than more luxurious options. Renting a one-bedroom apartment in a city center can cost anywhere from a few hundred to a few thousand Ethiopian Birr per month, while a three-bedroom apartment in a suburban area can cost around two to three thousand Birr per month," said one person in Ethiopia.

Should I buy or rent a home in Ethiopia?

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

"Buying a home in Ethiopia can be a great investment, as the country is experiencing rapid economic growth. However, it is important to consider the cost of living in Ethiopia, as well as the availability of housing in the area you are looking to buy in. Renting a home in Ethiopia can be a great option for those who are not ready to commit to a long-term purchase, as it allows for more flexibility and can be more cost-effective in the short-term. Ultimately, the decision to buy or rent a home in Ethiopia should be based on your individual needs and financial situation," said one expat who made the move to Ethiopia.

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

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

"1. It is important to research the local laws and regulations regarding property ownership in Ethiopia before making any purchase. 2. It is advisable to hire a local lawyer to assist with the purchase process and to ensure that all legal requirements are met. 3. It is important to obtain a title deed for the property, which is the legal document that proves ownership. 4. It is important to be aware of the local taxes and fees associated with purchasing property in Ethiopia. 5. It is important to be aware of the local customs and traditions when purchasing property in Ethiopia. 6. It is important to be aware of the local infrastructure and services available in the area where the property is located. 7. It is important to be aware of the local market conditions and prices when purchasing property in Ethiopia," wrote one expat who made the move to Ethiopia.

Are foreigners allowed to own property in Ethiopia?

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

"Foreigners are not allowed to own property in Ethiopia. The Ethiopian government does not permit foreign nationals to purchase land or real estate in the country. However, foreigners may lease property for up to 50 years with the approval of the Ministry of Urban Development and Construction. Additionally, foreign investors may own shares in Ethiopian companies, but they are not allowed to own more than 49% of the company," said one person in Ethiopia.

What appliances are typically included in a rental?

We asked foreigners in Ethiopia 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 Ethiopia, rental properties typically include basic kitchen appliances such as a refrigerator, stove, and oven. Other common appliances include a washing machine, air conditioner, and water heater. Depending on the property, some landlords may also provide additional amenities such as a microwave, dishwasher, and television," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Ethiopia.

Additional Information about Searching for a Home in Ethiopia:

We asked foreigners in Ethiopia 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 Ethiopia by looking online for real estate listings, contacting local real estate agents, and networking with other expats who may have knowledge of the local housing market. Additionally, expats can look for housing options in local newspapers and magazines, as well as on social media platforms such as Facebook and Twitter," explained one person living in Ethiopia.

About the Author

Betsy Burlingame Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat 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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