Before Buying: Essential Checks
Buying property in Tunisia requires special attention. Here are the points to verify before signing:
Title Deed Verification
This is the crucial first step. Make sure that:
- The property is registered at the Land Registry Office
- The seller is the legal owner
- There are no mortgages or encumbrances on the property
- The land boundaries match the cadastral plan
Types of Property
- Registered land — The safest option, with an official title deed
- Unregistered land — Requires a prior registration procedure
- Agricultural land — Restrictions for foreigners and non-farmers
Steps to Purchase
- Promise of sale — Preliminary agreement between buyer and seller, usually with a 10% deposit.
- Legal verification — Consult a lawyer to verify the title and documents.
- Sales contract — Drafted by a notary or lawyer, signed by both parties.
- Registration — Register the contract at the tax office (registration fees).
- Land Registry update — Update the title deed in the buyer's name.
Expected Costs
- Registration fees: approximately 6% of the sale price
- Notary fees: 0.5% to 1%
- Land Registry fees: variable depending on the type of transaction
- Tax stamps and miscellaneous fees
Special Case: Purchase by Tunisians Abroad
Tunisians living abroad can buy without special authorization. However, fund transfers must be made through a foreign currency bank account and require a certificate from the Central Bank of Tunisia for certain transactions.
Need support? Kifech Naamel verifies land titles, coordinates with notaries, and supports you through to the final signature.