Buying a Property in Morocco

Why Buy Property in Morocco?

Despite being only a three-hour flight from the UK, Morocco is a world apart. From the ancient cities of Tangier, Marrakech, Fez and Casablanca to the sprawling arid desert, Morocco certainly provides something different for today’s overseas property buyer.

Bustling towns and cities provide some of the liveliest markets on the planet, while the sandy white coastline offers rest and relaxation set to rival some of the world’s most popular beach destinations. Morocco benefits from having coasts on both the Atlantic and the Mediterranean, giving visitors the choice of beach locations. It is even possible to ski on the snow-capped Atlas mountains, proving that Morocco really is one of the most diverse locations around.

The choice of property in Morocco is just as varied, with new-build apartments, townhouses and villas competing with traditional riads and dars. It is this mixture of old and new which makes property in Morocco unique – thanks to clever planning and design, old architecture is complimented by its modern counterparts. But the real icing on the cake is the country’s property prices, as no matter what type of home you go for, it simply won’t break the bank.

Popular property buying locations

If you are after a city home, the choice tends to be between Fez and Marrakech. Fez was Morocco’s first Islamic city, and today these roots are still clearly visible. The city obtained UNESCO World Heritage site status in 1981, and the funding received enabled the old medina to be fully restored.

Meanwhile, Marrakech has the advantage of an established tourist and property market – it was here that the trend for riad restoration took off. However, as a result, property prices in the city can be higher than elsewhere in the country. Despite this, land has always been available in Marrakech, meaning that there is a wide range of modern villas with slightly more reasonable price tags situated on the outskirts of the city.

Property on Morocco’s coastline is also proving increasingly popular, and the resort of Mediterranea Saidia is a prime example. Home to huge inward investment, this coastal town will soon be home to five golf courses, an 850-berth marina, a wide range of bars and restaurants, no less than ten four- and five-star hotels and beach clubs. This part of the northern coastline is attracting considerable government investment under the ‘Plan Azul’ to attract tourists in huge amounts to Morocco in the next few years. A new airport is being built to provide improved access to the area, and high-end shopping has been attracted to take up retail opportunities.

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