Buying real estate in Casablanca: how does the purchasing process work?

Can foreigners buy real estate in Morocco?

Yes. Foreigners may acquire full ownership of residential and commercial real estate in Morocco — apartments, villas, riads, and commercial properties. The only exception is agricultural land: it may not be purchased by non-Moroccans, unless the land has been rezoned as a building zone.

You do not need a residence permit or a specific visa to buy real estate. Many foreign buyers complete the purchase during a visit with a tourist visa. It is even possible to handle the entire purchase remotely via a power of attorney.

The purchasing process in 6 steps

Step 1: Due diligence

Before you sign anything, the property is thoroughly investigated. This includes verification of title deeds with the Land Registry (ANCFCC), checking for any debts, mortgages, or legal disputes, and assessing building permits and urban planning compliance. This is the most important step in the entire process — and precisely where many foreign buyers make mistakes when working without guidance.

Step 2: Preliminary Purchase Agreement (Compromis de Vente)

When the buyer and seller agree on the price, a preliminary purchase agreement is drawn up by a notary. At that time, you pay a down payment of typically 10% of the purchase price. This contract is legally binding for both parties.

Step 3: Open a bank account

As a foreign buyer, you must open a convertible dirham account at a Moroccan bank. This is mandatory: all payments must be processed through this account. It is also crucial for the future sale or repatriation of funds. Be Casa Estate assists you with opening this account.

Step 4: Document verification

The notary verifies all property documents: the deed of title, the cadastral plan, any building permits, and urban planning conformity. In the case of a co-owned apartment, the syndic's documents are also checked.

Step 5: Signing of the final deed (Acte de Vente)

The final deed of sale is signed at the notary's office in the presence of both parties (or their representatives). The notary ensures the correct drafting of the contract and the payment of all taxes and levies.

Step 6: Registration with the Land Registry

After signing, the deed is registered with the Conservation Foncière (the Moroccan land registry). This process typically takes 10 to 15 working days. After registration, you receive your final title deed — and you are officially the owner.

Which documents do you need?

• Valid passport (copy and original)
• Proof of address in your home country
• Confirmation of your Moroccan bank account
• Signed preliminary purchase agreement
• Proof of payment (bank transfers)
• Any power of attorney (for distance purchases)

All documents in a language other than French or Arabic must be translated by a sworn translator.

What does the purchasing process cost?

In addition to the purchase price, you should take into account additional costs of approximately 10% of the selling price. This includes:

• Registration fees: 4% of the selling price
• Notary fees: 0.5% to 1% of the selling price
• Land registry fees: 1.5% of the selling price
• Brokerage fees: usually 3% + VAT (20%)
• Legal assistance (optional): 1% to 2% of the selling price

Common mistakes with foreign buyers

• Buy without title verification — The biggest mistake foreign buyers make is purchasing a property that is not correctly registered with the Land Registry. You only discover this upon a potential resale.
• No convertible account — without the correct bank account, you cannot repatriate your money later.
• Working without local supervision — The Moroccan system works differently than in Europe. A local partner who knows the language, culture, and procedures is not a luxury but a necessity.

How Be Casa Estate guides you

At Be Casa Estate, Katrien and Nizar personally guide you through every step of the purchase process. From the initial due diligence to registration with the Land Registry — you have one dedicated point of contact who knows your situation and looks after your interests. Our guidance is available in Dutch, French, and English.