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Real Estate in Kathmandu, Nepal | Expat Exchange
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Real Estate in Kathmandu, Nepal

By Betsy Burlingame

Last updated on Nov 11, 2024

Summary: The average cost of a nice 2 bedroom home in Kathmandu, Nepal is around $150,000 USD. A nice 3 bedroom home in Kathmandu is around $200,000 USD. These properties typically include modern amenities such as air conditioning, hot water, and modern kitchen appliances. There are no restrictions on foreign ownership for properties in Kathmandu. An expat should search for a home to buy in Kathmandu by researching the local real estate market, visiting the area, and speaking with local real estate agents. The most desirable neighborhoods in Kathmandu include Thamel, Boudha, and Patan.

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How do I find a place to live in Kathmandu?

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

"One option for finding a place to live in Kathmandu is to search online for rental listings. Websites such as Nepal Real Estate, Nepal Property, and Nepal Home offer a variety of listings for apartments, houses, and other types of rental properties. Additionally, there are many real estate agents in Kathmandu who can help you find a place to live. You can also ask friends and family who live in Kathmandu for recommendations. Finally, you can look for rental listings in local newspapers and magazines," explained one person living in Kathmandu, Nepal.

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William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
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What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Kathmandu?

"Expat homes and apartments in Kathmandu tend to be modern and comfortable, with amenities such as air conditioning, hot water, and internet access. Many expats choose to live in gated communities, which offer a greater sense of security and privacy. Expat homes and apartments in Kathmandu are typically spacious and well-furnished, with plenty of room for entertaining guests. Many expats also enjoy the convenience of having access to a variety of restaurants, shops, and other services within walking distance," said one expat who made the move to Kathmandu.

William Russell

William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.

Learn MoreGet Quote

William Russell

William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.

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What is the average cost of housing in Kathmandu?

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

"The cost of housing in Kathmandu can vary greatly depending on the size and location of the property. Generally, the cost of renting an apartment in Kathmandu is relatively affordable compared to other cities in the region. Prices for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center can range from around $200 to $500 per month, while a two-bedroom apartment can cost anywhere from $400 to $800 per month. Outside of the city center, prices can be significantly lower," said one expat who made the move to Kathmandu.

Should I buy or rent a home in Kathmandu?

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

"Buying a home in Kathmandu 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 Kathmandu, as well as the availability of housing. Renting a home in Kathmandu can be a more affordable option, and it can also provide more flexibility if you are not sure how long you will be living in the city. Ultimately, the decision to buy or rent a home in Kathmandu should be based on your individual needs and budget," remarked one member in Kathmandu.

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

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

"When buying property in Kathmandu, it is important to research the local laws and regulations regarding property ownership. It is also important to understand the local market and the current prices of properties in the area. It is also important to have a clear understanding of the terms of the sale, including any taxes or fees that may be associated with the purchase. It is also important to have a reliable real estate agent who can help you navigate the process. Finally, it is important to have a clear understanding of the local infrastructure and amenities in the area, as well as any potential risks associated with the property," explained one expat in Kathmandu.

Are foreigners allowed to own property in Kathmandu?

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

"Foreigners are generally not allowed to own property in Kathmandu. The Nepalese government has strict regulations in place that prohibit foreign nationals from purchasing land or property in the country. However, there are some exceptions, such as foreign investors who have obtained special permission from the government to establish businesses or industries in Nepal. In such cases, they may be allowed to own property for the purpose of their business operations. Additionally, foreigners married to Nepali citizens may be able to own property jointly with their spouse, but the property will be registered under the Nepali spouse's name," said one person in Kathmandu.

What appliances are typically included in a rental?

We asked foreigners in Kathmandu 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 Kathmandu, rental properties typically include a refrigerator, stove, oven, washing machine, and air conditioner. Other common appliances may include a microwave, water heater, and dishwasher," explained one expat in Kathmandu.

Additional Information about Searching for a Home in Kathmandu:

We asked foreigners in Kathmandu 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 Kathmandu often start by browsing online property portals and websites that cater specifically to the expat community. They may also join expat forums and social media groups to seek advice and recommendations from fellow expats who have already gone through the process of finding a home in Kathmandu. Another popular method is to engage the services of a local real estate agent who is familiar with the needs and preferences of expats. These agents can help navigate the local property market and provide valuable insights into the best neighborhoods and types of properties available. Word of mouth is also a powerful tool for expats searching for homes in Kathmandu. Networking with other expats, colleagues, and local friends can lead to potential housing opportunities that may not be advertised online or through real estate agents. Visiting popular expat neighborhoods and exploring the local housing market in person can also be helpful. This allows expats to get a feel for the area, assess the availability of amenities, and potentially spot rental signs or notices posted by landlords. Lastly, expats may consider reaching out to their employer or relocation company for assistance in finding a suitable home in Kathmandu. Many companies offer support and resources to help their employees settle into their new surroundings, including housing assistance," explained one person living in Kathmandu, Nepal.

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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SJB Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model.
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