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Real Estate in Lebanon | Expat Exchange
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Real Estate in Lebanon

By Joshua Wood, LPC

Last updated on Mar 10, 2024

Summary: An expat looking to buy a home in Lebanon should start by researching the different areas of the country and the types of properties available. It is important to consider the cost of living, the local infrastructure, and the availability of amenities in the area. Foreigners are allowed to purchase property in Lebanon, however, there are certain restrictions in place. For example, foreigners are not allowed to purchase property in certain areas, such as military zones or areas near the border. Houses in Lebanon typically include amenities such as air conditioning, central heating, and modern appliances. Many homes also have balconies, terraces, and gardens.

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How do I find a place to live in Lebanon?

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 Lebanon is to search online for rental listings. Websites such as Lamudi, Zameen, and Property Finder are great resources for finding apartments, villas, and other types of housing in Lebanon. Additionally, you can also search for rental listings on social media platforms such as Facebook and Twitter. Additionally, you can also contact local real estate agents who can help you find a suitable place to live in Lebanon. Finally, you can also ask friends and family who live in Lebanon for recommendations on where to look for housing," explained one person living in Lebanon.

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

"Expat homes and apartments in Lebanon tend to be modern and luxurious, with high-end amenities such as marble floors, granite countertops, and stainless steel appliances. Many expats choose to live in Beirut, the capital city, where they can enjoy the vibrant nightlife and cultural attractions. Expat homes and apartments in other parts of the country tend to be more traditional, with tiled floors and balconies overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. Expats can also find furnished apartments in many of the larger cities, which provide a convenient and comfortable living space," said one person in Lebanon.

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What is the average cost of housing in Lebanon?

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

"The cost of housing in Lebanon varies depending on the location and type of property. Generally, the cost of renting an apartment in Lebanon is relatively high, with prices ranging from around $500 to $2,000 per month. The cost of buying a house in Lebanon is also quite high, with prices ranging from around $100,000 to $1 million," said one expat who made the move to Lebanon.

Should I buy or rent a home in Lebanon?

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

"When deciding whether to buy or rent a home in Lebanon, it is important to consider your financial situation, lifestyle, and long-term goals. Buying a home can be a great investment, as it can provide you with a stable place to live and the potential for appreciation in value. However, it also requires a large upfront investment and ongoing maintenance costs. Renting a home can be a more affordable option, as it requires less of an upfront investment and no maintenance costs. However, it does not provide the same potential for appreciation in value. Ultimately, the decision to buy or rent a home in Lebanon should be based on your individual needs and preferences," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Lebanon.

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

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

"1. It is important to research the local market and understand the current trends in the area before making a purchase. 2. It is important to hire a qualified lawyer to help you navigate the legal process of buying property in Lebanon. 3. It is important to understand the tax implications of buying property in Lebanon, as there are various taxes that may be applicable. 4. It is important to understand the zoning regulations in the area where you are buying property, as this may affect the type of property you can purchase. 5. It is important to understand the local customs and culture when buying property in Lebanon, as this may affect the process. 6. It is important to understand the financing options available when buying property in Lebanon, as this may affect the cost of the purchase. 7. It is important to understand the maintenance and upkeep requirements of the property you are buying, as this may affect the cost of ownership," said one expat in Lebanon.

Are foreigners allowed to own property in Lebanon?

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

"Foreigners are allowed to own property in Lebanon, but there are certain restrictions in place. Foreigners are not allowed to own property in certain areas, such as military zones, and they must obtain permission from the Ministry of Interior before they can purchase property. Additionally, foreigners are not allowed to own more than 10% of the total land area in any given municipality. Finally, foreigners are not allowed to own property in Lebanon for more than 25 years," explained one person living in Lebanon.

What appliances are typically included in a rental?

We asked foreigners in Lebanon 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:

"Rental properties in Lebanon typically include a refrigerator, stove, oven, and washing machine. Other common appliances may include a dishwasher, microwave, and air conditioning unit. Depending on the property, additional amenities such as a dryer, hot tub, or pool may also be included," said one person in Lebanon.

Additional Information about Searching for a Home in Lebanon:

We asked foreigners in Lebanon 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 typically search for homes in Lebanon by looking for real estate agents who specialize in helping expats find homes in the area. They can also search online for listings of available homes, or look for classified ads in local newspapers. Additionally, expats can ask friends and family who live in Lebanon for recommendations on real estate agents or homes that may be available," explained one person living in Lebanon.

About the Author

Joshua Wood Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.

Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.

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