How to Buy Property in Lebanon:

Buying property in Lebanon takes 7 main steps and costs roughly 6% of the property's value in government fees, on top of the price itself. The process is straightforward once you know the order, but skipping a check, especially on the title deed, is where most buyers get into trouble. This guide walks you through each step.

Step 1: Set your full budget, not just the price

Plan for more than the asking price. Add:

• Registration fees: around 6% of the declared value, paid when the property is transferred to your name.
• Agency commission: usually agreed with the agency, commonly a percentage of the price for each side.
• Lawyer fees: strongly recommended to review the deed and contract.
• Notary fees for the sale agreement.
• Moving, furnishing and renovation, plus monthly building fees (generator, maintenance, concierge).
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Step 2: Find the right property

Start by comparing price per m² in the areas you like (see our guide to apartment prices in Lebanon by area). Visit several properties at different times of day, check water supply, electricity and generator hours, parking and access in winter.

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Step 3: Check the title deed (ifadeh akariyeh)

Before paying anything, ask the seller for the property's number and area, then get an official real estate statement (ifadeh akariyeh) from the Land Registry. It confirms:

• who legally owns the property,
• its exact surface and plot number,
• whether there are mortgages, seizures or other claims registered on it.

If the apartment is in a building without separate title deeds (still registered as shares of the plot), ask your lawyer to explain what you are actually buying.

Step 4: Negotiate and agree on the payment method

Agree in writing on the final price, the payment method (fresh dollars, bank transfer, instalments), the handover date, and what is included (kitchen, AC units, solar, parking spot, storage).

Step 5: Sign the sale agreement at the notary

The buyer and seller sign a sale agreement in front of a notary (kateb el adel). Many buyers pay a deposit at this stage. Your lawyer should review the contract before signing, especially the penalty clauses and the deadline to complete the transfer.

Step 6: Pay the registration fees and register at the Land Registry

The property only becomes legally yours once it is registered in your name at the Land Registry. Registration fees of about 6% of the value are paid at this stage. Ownership is acquired upon registration, not upon signing the sale agreement.

Step 7: Receive your title deed and hand over

Once registration is complete, you receive the title deed in your name. Transfer utility subscriptions (EDL, water, generator) and get the building committee's contact details.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Paying a large deposit before checking the ifadeh akariyeh.
• Signing an informal agreement without a notary.
• Under-declaring the price to reduce fees, which can cause legal problems later.
• Ignoring building fees and generator costs when calculating your monthly budget.

Frequently asked questions

How much are property registration fees in Lebanon? Registration fees are approximately 6% of the property's value, according to PwC's Lebanon tax summary. Check the exact amount with your lawyer or the Land Registry before the transfer, as fees can change with budget laws.

How long does it take to buy property in Lebanon? If the title deed is clean and payment is ready, the process can take a few weeks. Delays usually come from missing documents or problems on the deed.

Do I need a lawyer to buy property in Lebanon? It is not legally required, but it is strongly recommended to verify the deed and review the contract.

Can expats and foreigners buy property in Lebanon? Yes, with some conditions. Read our guide: Can foreigners and expats buy property in Lebanon?

This guide is for general information and is not legal advice. Fees and procedures can change; confirm them with a lawyer or notary before any transaction.

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