Buying real estate in Cameroon?

We've created a guide to help you avoid pitfalls, save time, and make the best long-term investment possible.

Bonamoussadi Douala property: why prices rising so fast?

Last updated on 

Authored by the expert who managed and guided the team behind the Cameroon Property Pack

buying property foreigner Cameroon

Everything you need to know before buying real estate is included in our Cameroon Property Pack

Bonamoussadi in Douala has become one of Cameroon's hottest property markets with prices surging by 20-30% over five years. As of September 2025, residential properties in this emerging district average $1,100-$1,400 per square meter, significantly higher than other Douala suburbs. Young professionals and infrastructure improvements are driving this unprecedented growth in what was once considered an outer area of the economic capital.

If you want to go deeper, you can check our pack of documents related to the real estate market in Cameroon, based on reliable facts and data, not opinions or rumors.

How this content was created 🔎📝

At The Africanvestor, we explore the Cameroonian real estate market every day. Our team doesn't just analyze data from a distance—we're actively engaging with local realtors, investors, and property managers in cities like Douala, Yaoundé, and Bafoussam. This hands-on approach allows us to gain a deep understanding of the market from the inside out.

These observations are originally based on what we've learned through these conversations and our observations. But it was not enough. To back them up, we also needed to rely on trusted resources

We prioritize accuracy and authority. Trends lacking solid data or expert validation were excluded.

Trustworthiness is central to our work. Every source and citation is clearly listed, ensuring transparency. A writing AI-powered tool was used solely to refine readability and engagement.

To make the information accessible, our team designed custom infographics that clarify key points. We hope you will like them! All illustrations and media were created in-house and added manually.

photo of expert cedella besong

Fact-checked and reviewed by our local expert

✓✓✓

Cedella Besong 🇨🇲

Co-Founder & CEO, CFB Holding

Cedella Besong is the Co-Founder & CEO of CFB Holding, leading the company's mission to drive social and economic development across Cameroon. With a strong background in global business and marketing, she is deeply committed to projects that create lasting impact—whether in real estate, education, or sustainable agriculture. Cedella believes that investment should go beyond profit, focusing on innovation and community empowerment to build a brighter future for Cameroon.

What is the current average price per square meter for residential properties in Bonamoussadi, Douala?

As of September 2025, residential properties in Bonamoussadi, Douala cost between $1,100 and $1,400 per square meter.

This pricing makes Bonamoussadi significantly more expensive than other outer areas of Douala, which typically average around $920 per square meter. The district has gained recognition as an "emerging area" with strong investment appeal, justifying these premium prices.

Modern apartments and gated complexes command the highest prices within this range, often reaching the $1,400 mark. Older residential buildings and houses without modern amenities tend to fall closer to the $1,100 threshold.

These current prices reflect sustained demand from young professionals and investors attracted to the area's ongoing transformation and improved connectivity to Douala's business centers.

The pricing trend shows Bonamoussadi has evolved from an affordable suburb to a mid-range residential district within just five years.

How has the price trend for properties in Bonamoussadi changed over the past 5 years?

Property prices in Bonamoussadi have increased by 20-30% over the past five years, representing an average annual growth rate of 3-7%.

This growth pattern started around 2020 when the district began attracting more attention from developers and young professionals. The initial surge was modest, but momentum accelerated significantly after 2022 when infrastructure improvements became visible.

The appreciation rate in Bonamoussadi has actually outpaced the broader Douala market, which also recorded 20-30% growth during the same period. This indicates that Bonamoussadi benefited from both citywide trends and location-specific advantages.

Year-over-year growth has been most pronounced in 2024 and 2025, with some micro-locations near new transport links experiencing even steeper increases. The consistent upward trajectory reflects strong fundamentals rather than speculative bubbles.

It's something we develop in our Cameroon property pack.

What factors are contributing to the rising demand for properties in Bonamoussadi, Douala?

Young professionals represent the primary driver of rising demand in Bonamoussadi, attracted by new transport links and proximity to business hubs.

The ongoing gentrification process has transformed the area's appeal, with infrastructure upgrades including improved roads, better utilities, and mixed-use developments creating an emerging urban lifestyle. These improvements have made Bonamoussadi particularly attractive to educated, middle-income buyers and renters.

High rental yields make the district appealing to both local and foreign investors seeking income-generating properties. The combination of rising rents and relatively moderate purchase prices compared to central Douala creates attractive investment opportunities.

Douala's rapid urbanization and substantial housing shortage are pushing demand higher across all affordable districts. Population influx from rural areas and other regions of Cameroon continues to strain housing supply, benefiting emerging areas like Bonamoussadi.

The district's transformation from a purely residential suburb to a mixed-use area with commercial and retail integration adds to its long-term appeal.

What types of properties are seeing the highest price increases in Bonamoussadi?

Apartments targeting long-term rentals are experiencing the steepest price increases, supported by high occupancy rates and steady rental turnover.

Mixed-use developments combining residential units with commercial spaces on ground floors have recorded exceptional appreciation. These properties appeal to both investors and owner-occupiers due to their income potential and modern amenities.

Modern villas and gated complexes catering to young professionals are also appreciating rapidly, particularly those featuring contemporary designs, security systems, and parking facilities. These properties command premium prices due to their appeal to higher-income buyers.

Newly constructed apartments with modern finishes, reliable electricity, and water supply significantly outperform older buildings without these features. The gap between modern and traditional properties continues to widen as buyers prioritize quality and convenience.

Properties located within walking distance of commercial areas or new transport routes experience the highest appreciation rates within the broader apartment and villa categories.

Don't lose money on your property in Cameroon

100% of people who have lost money there have spent less than 1 hour researching the market. We have reviewed everything there is to know. Grab our guide now.

investing in real estate in  Cameroon

Are there specific neighborhoods or streets within Bonamoussadi that have experienced more significant price growth?

Streets and micro-districts closest to new transport routes have recorded the most significant price and demand growth within Bonamoussadi.

Areas near business centers and commercial hubs within the district command premium prices due to reduced commute times and better access to services. Properties within 500 meters of major roads connecting to central Douala typically trade at the higher end of the price range.

Gentrifying pockets with planned commercial-retail integration are particularly strong performers, often exceeding the district average by 10-15%. These micro-locations benefit from both current amenities and future development potential.

Neighborhoods with better electricity and water infrastructure reliability experience stronger demand and pricing power. Consistent utility services have become a major differentiating factor for property values in the area.

While detailed street-level data remains limited, local real estate agents report that proximity to planned or completed infrastructure projects directly correlates with price appreciation across different parts of Bonamoussadi.

How does the infrastructure development in Bonamoussadi, like roads and utilities, impact property values?

Recent road upgrades and improved utilities have strongly enhanced property values throughout Bonamoussadi by reducing commutes and attracting more affluent buyers and renters.

Modern infrastructure makes properties significantly more attractive to high-income tenants and buyers, which becomes a key factor in sustained price growth. Properties with reliable electricity and water supply can command 15-20% premium prices compared to those with intermittent services.

Improved road connectivity has reduced travel time to central Douala business districts, making Bonamoussadi a viable option for professionals who previously would have chosen more central but expensive locations. This expanded buyer pool directly supports higher property values.

Utility improvements including better drainage systems and waste management have enhanced the overall living quality, attracting families and professionals who prioritize modern amenities. These infrastructure investments create a positive feedback loop of continued area improvement.

Future infrastructure projects already announced or under construction continue to support property value expectations, with buyers willing to pay premium prices based on anticipated improvements.

What is the level of foreign investment in Bonamoussadi real estate?

Foreign direct investment in Douala real estate has increased by an estimated 12% annually since 2020, with Bonamoussadi specifically noted as a rising interest area.

International buyers are especially attracted to new projects offering higher rental returns compared to more established districts. The combination of moderate entry prices and strong rental yields makes Bonamoussadi appealing to foreign investors seeking income-generating properties.

The majority of buyers remain Cameroonian, but foreign interest is growing particularly among West African diaspora investors and some European nationals familiar with the region. These international buyers often target modern apartment complexes and gated developments.

Foreign investment tends to focus on newer developments with formal documentation and reliable property management services. International buyers prioritize properties with clear titles and professional management structures.

The growing appeal to both local and international investors contributes to sustained demand pressure and continued price appreciation in the district.

How does the local economy and employment rate in Douala influence the property market in Bonamoussadi?

Douala's status as Cameroon's business capital leads to robust employment-driven migration, directly boosting property demand in Bonamoussadi.

The city's economic strength attracts workers from across Cameroon and neighboring countries, creating sustained housing demand that benefits emerging districts like Bonamoussadi. Job growth in logistics, finance, and services sectors provides the income base supporting property purchases and rentals.

Ongoing urbanization combined with relative political stability further stimulates the local real estate market. Young professionals moving to Douala for career opportunities represent a key demographic driving demand for modern housing in accessible locations.

The port city's strategic economic importance ensures continued job creation and population growth, supporting long-term property market fundamentals. Industries including import-export, manufacturing, and services provide diverse employment opportunities.

It's something we develop in our Cameroon property pack.

infographics rental yields citiesCameroon

We did some research and made this infographic to help you quickly compare rental yields of the major cities in Cameroon versus those in neighboring countries. It provides a clear view of how this country positions itself as a real estate investment destination, which might interest you if you're planning to invest there.

Are property taxes or regulations changing in Bonamoussadi, and how does that affect prices?

No major new property tax hikes specific to Bonamoussadi have been reported for 2025, maintaining relative stability for property owners and investors.

Rising transaction fees and stricter enforcement of building and registration codes could influence costs for both foreign and local investors. These regulatory changes primarily affect new purchases and developments rather than existing property owners.

Stable or gradually increasing municipal taxes generally encourage more formal property market activity, which aids price growth by improving market transparency and buyer confidence. Proper documentation requirements benefit legitimate property transactions.

Stricter building code enforcement has raised construction costs for new developments, which indirectly supports prices for existing properties that meet modern standards. This regulatory environment favors quality construction and proper documentation.

The government's focus on formalizing property transactions through improved registration systems helps stabilize the market and supports long-term value appreciation.

What is the average time on the market for properties in Bonamoussadi before they are sold?

Properties in Bonamoussadi, especially those well-located or in newer developments, typically sell within 2-4 months due to the mismatch between demand and supply.

Modern apartments and houses with reliable utilities often sell faster, sometimes within 6-8 weeks, particularly if priced competitively within the $1,100-$1,400 per square meter range. Properties with unique features like parking spaces or security systems command immediate attention.

Older properties or those requiring significant repairs may take 4-6 months to find buyers, but still move faster than in many other Douala districts. The overall housing shortage in the area ensures most properties eventually find buyers.

Properties priced above market rates or lacking modern amenities can take 6 months or longer to sell, highlighting the importance of competitive pricing and property condition. Location within Bonamoussadi also affects sales speed.

The quick turnover reflects strong underlying demand and limited supply, creating favorable conditions for sellers willing to price properties realistically.

How have recent government policies or projects affected property prices in Bonamoussadi?

Government-backed infrastructure and transport projects have been key catalysts for price appreciation, directly benefiting Bonamoussadi real estate by increasing accessibility and desirability.

The ongoing urban redevelopment strategy for Douala supports further development in target districts like Bonamoussadi, providing official backing for continued area improvement. These policies signal government commitment to developing emerging districts.

Public investment in road networks and utility infrastructure has reduced development costs for private developers, encouraging more construction projects that increase area attractiveness. Government spending leverages additional private investment.

Policies promoting formal property registration and clearer land titles have improved buyer confidence in emerging districts, supporting sustained price growth. Legal clarity reduces investment risks and attracts more serious buyers.

Housing policy initiatives aimed at addressing Douala's accommodation shortage indirectly benefit areas like Bonamoussadi by channeling development toward accessible, well-connected locations.

What are the expected price forecasts for Bonamoussadi properties in the next 2-3 years, based on current trends?

Property prices in Bonamoussadi are expected to continue rising by 4-7% yearly through 2027, especially in areas nearest new transit and key business clusters.

Given high demand, persistent housing shortages, and steady infrastructure investment, most market indicators support continued appreciation at or above historical rates. The fundamentals driving current growth remain strong and sustainable.

Areas closest to completed or planned transport improvements are likely to experience the highest appreciation rates, potentially reaching 8-10% annually. These premium locations benefit from both current improvements and future development potential.

The forecast assumes continued political stability and economic growth in Cameroon, along with sustained urban migration to Douala. Any significant changes in these fundamentals could affect price trajectories.

It's something we develop in our Cameroon property pack.

Conclusion

This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. Readers are advised to consult with a qualified professional before making any investment decisions. We do not assume any liability for actions taken based on the information provided.

Sources

  1. Average Price per Square Meter in Douala
  2. Average Property Price in Douala
  3. Is Douala Worth It for Property Investment
  4. Should You Buy Property in Douala
  5. Best Areas for Property Investment in Cameroon
  6. Gnosi Journal Real Estate Study
  7. Cameroonian Real Estate Market Analysis
  8. Numbeo Property Investment Data for Douala