A Guide to the legalities when buying property in Morocco

The first step to buying property in Morocco is to choose your property and then secure it by paying the “holding deposit”.

At this stage, it is wise to appoint a lawyer who is fluent in your language so you fully understand all the legalities and exactly what is happening. We can recommend a good lawyer who can carry out the necessary checks on the property in Morocco and complete the legal requirements of the sale. Alternatively you may have been recommended another lawyer you wish to instruct.

You will then be expected to sign a 'Sale contract' in the presence of a notary. You will then be required to pay the full amount due before completion (usually 40%).

Please ensure you fully understand the exactly what payment structure is in place before committing to a property purchase in Morocco.

When the property is ready for occupation, you and the developer will sign the transfer of property and you will then be required to pay the remainder of the price (60%), the stamp duty and other fees, including notary fees.

At this stage temporary certificate of ownership will be issued by the notary and when all the paperwork and legal requirements are completed, the title deeds will be issued, (this normally takes a couple of months).

Taxes & Fees Payable on a property purchase

• Land registry fees: 1%
• Registration fees: 5% if property is sold within 5 years, 3% after that period
• Notary fees: 1% to 2% (based on the purchase price and set on a sliding scale, these fees are levied at the Notary and paid to the relevant Government department or Local Authority)
• Notary tax: 0.5%

Please note: Several tax exemptions are applicable to new property purchasers

Click here to view our selection of lawyers who can help you with your Moroccan property purchase

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