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What is happening in Cameroon’s real estate market? Are prices going up or down? Is Douala still a hotspot for foreign investors? How is Cameroon’s government impacting real estate policies and taxes in 2025?
These are the questions everyone is asking us every day—professionals, buyers, and sellers alike, from Yaoundé to Bafoussam and beyond. Perhaps you’re wondering the same thing.
We know this because we stay deeply connected with local professionals and people like you, diving into the Cameroonian real estate market every single day. That’s why we created this article: to provide clear answers, insightful analysis, and a well-rounded perspective on market trends and dynamics.
Our goal is simple: to ensure you feel informed and confident about the market without needing to look elsewhere. If you think we missed the mark or could do better, we’d love to hear your thoughts. Feel free to message us with your feedback or comments, and we’ll work hard to improve this content for you.
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1) Government policies will increasingly prioritize sustainable housing development
In Cameroon, government policies are increasingly focusing on sustainable housing development.
One standout initiative is the SHIFT HOUSE project, which has received substantial funding to promote energy-efficient and sustainable housing across the country's diverse climatic zones. This project is a significant leap forward in modernizing the construction sector and tackling the challenges of creating a sustainable urban environment.
The government is also introducing stricter building codes that emphasize energy efficiency, showing a strong commitment to sustainable construction practices. The SHIFT HOUSE project aligns with the Cameroonian Government Code for Sustainable Homes, indicating a shift towards more rigorous standards in building practices.
Moreover, the government has set ambitious targets for renewable energy, aiming for 25% of the energy mix to come from renewable sources by 2035. This goal supports the integration of renewable energy in housing, making homes not just sustainable but also energy-independent.
Public statements by government officials further highlight the focus on eco-friendly housing. Prime Minister Joseph Dion Ngute announced plans to construct 675 new housing units in 2025, underscoring the government's dedication to sustainable housing development.
Additionally, the government's program to build 10,000 social housing units and develop 50,000 plots of land shows a broader commitment to addressing housing shortages with sustainable solutions. This initiative is a clear indication of the government's strategy to combine housing development with sustainability.
Sources: Climate Chance, USAID, Business in Cameroon
2) Cameroon's property prices will rise moderately due to inflationary pressures
In Cameroon, inflation is on the rise, with rates hitting 4.40% in September 2024.
This upward trend in inflation is expected to continue, potentially reaching 5.00% by 2026. Higher inflation means increased costs for everything, including housing. As prices climb, buying a home becomes more expensive, impacting both new and existing properties.
Building new homes isn't getting any cheaper either. The cost of construction materials is climbing, making it pricier to develop new housing. Add in some regulatory hurdles, and you have a recipe for slower growth in new housing projects. When fewer new homes are built, existing properties become more valuable, pushing their prices up.
Urbanization is another factor at play. Cities like Douala and Yaoundé are seeing more people move in, boosting the demand for housing. This influx often outpaces the available supply, creating a gap that can lead to higher property prices.
With more people flocking to urban areas, the demand for housing is outstripping supply. This imbalance is a key driver of rising property prices, especially in major cities. Limited housing options mean higher prices for those looking to buy.
Sources: Trading Economics, Cameroon Price Forecasts, African Property Magazine
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.
3) Interest in gated communities will rise due to security concerns
In Cameroon, crime rates have been climbing, especially in cities, causing people to worry more about their safety.
Recent years have seen increased media coverage of security issues, with reports of clashes between armed groups and government forces. These conflicts have led to serious consequences for civilians, including unlawful killings and abductions, as highlighted by Human Rights Watch.
Surveys by the Protection Cluster Cameroon show that non-state armed groups are responsible for many security incidents. Between August 2022 and August 2023, there was a 38% rise in protection-related incidents, reflecting a growing sense of insecurity.
With these safety concerns, interest in gated communities is on the rise. People are looking for secure living environments, and these communities offer a sense of safety and peace of mind.
Gated communities provide not just security but also a sense of community and exclusivity, which is becoming increasingly appealing. This trend is expected to continue as security remains a top priority for many potential property buyers.
As crime rates continue to rise, the demand for properties in secure, gated communities is likely to grow, making them a smart investment choice for those prioritizing safety.
Sources: Crime Rate Statistics, Human Rights Watch Report, Protection Cluster Cameroon Report
4) Foreign buyers will increasingly target Cameroon's coastal properties
Foreign buyers are showing increased interest in Cameroon's coastal properties for several compelling reasons.
With the introduction of an electronic visa system in 2023, tourism in Cameroon has surged, making it easier for visitors to explore the country. This uptick in tourism is sparking interest in coastal properties, as people see them as ideal spots for vacation homes or rental investments. Imagine owning a piece of paradise where the Atlantic Ocean meets lush landscapes, offering both relaxation and adventure.
Cameroon's real estate sector is also seeing a boost from rising foreign direct investment. This influx of capital is a testament to the country's growth potential and its strategic location in Central Africa. Investors are eyeing coastal areas, anticipating property price increases and seeking profitable opportunities. The allure of owning property in a region poised for economic growth is hard to resist.
Government initiatives are playing a crucial role in making coastal areas more accessible and attractive. The development of the deepwater port at Kribi is a game-changer, enhancing connectivity and opening up new possibilities for property investment. These infrastructure improvements, coupled with media coverage showcasing the stunning beauty of Cameroon's coastline, are drawing the attention of foreign buyers.
Imagine the potential of investing in a region where infrastructure is rapidly improving, making it easier to access pristine beaches and vibrant communities. The deepwater port at Kribi is not just a logistical hub; it's a gateway to a world of opportunities for those looking to invest in coastal properties.
As more people discover the charm and potential of Cameroon's coastline, the demand for coastal properties is expected to rise. This trend is fueled by a combination of factors, including increased tourism, foreign investment, and government efforts to improve infrastructure. The future looks bright for those considering investing in this beautiful and strategically located region.
5) Regulations will become more favorable, boosting international investments from foreign buyers
Cameroon is making it easier for foreigners to buy property, boosting international investments.
The government has simplified the property acquisition process for foreigners, requiring just the minister's endorsement for private purchases. This change is part of a broader effort to attract more international investors by showcasing Cameroon's diverse economy and strategic location. The success stories of companies like Dangote Cement and MTN, which have thrived in Cameroon, further highlight the country's potential.
Buying property in Cameroon is now less of a hassle for foreigners, thanks to reduced bureaucratic hurdles. This streamlining is drawing more interest from international buyers, with many real estate firms expanding their operations in the country. The government's proactive approach is evident in its efforts to promote a business-friendly environment, making Cameroon an attractive destination for foreign investments.
Foreign investors are increasingly eyeing Cameroon, drawn by the simplified property buying process and the country's commitment to improving its business climate. The government's amendments to land ownership laws are a clear signal of its intent to encourage more international participation in the real estate market. This shift is not only beneficial for foreign buyers but also for the local economy, as it brings in much-needed capital and expertise.
Cameroon's strategic location in Central Africa, coupled with its rich natural resources, makes it a prime spot for investment. The government's efforts to make regulations more favorable for foreign buyers are paying off, as evidenced by the growing number of international investors entering the market. This trend is expected to continue, with more foreign companies looking to establish a foothold in the country.
As Cameroon continues to open its doors to foreign investors, the real estate market is set to become even more dynamic. The government's commitment to creating a conducive environment for international investments is a positive step towards economic growth and development. With the ongoing regulatory changes, foreign buyers can expect a smoother experience when purchasing property in Cameroon.
Sources: Buying property in Cameroon as a foreigner, Unlocking Opportunities: Investing in Cameroon, How to buy land in Cameroon as a foreigner, Foreign Direct Investment, Net Inflows (BoP, Current US$)
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6) Rural property prices will drop as urban migration persists
In Cameroon, urban living is becoming the norm as more people flock to cities.
Back in 2023, over half of Cameroon's population was already settled in urban areas, and this number is climbing. By 2050, an estimated 70% of Cameroonians will be city dwellers. This shift is reshaping the real estate landscape, especially in rural regions.
As cities grow, rural areas are seeing fewer residents. In 2023, the rural population was just over 40% of the total, and it's been shrinking. This drop in rural inhabitants means less demand for properties in these areas, which is something potential buyers should consider.
Why the move to cities? It's all about opportunities. Younger folks are especially drawn to urban life for better jobs, education, and healthcare. Plus, the government is pouring resources into city infrastructure, making urban areas even more appealing.
Rural communities face hurdles like limited job prospects and poor infrastructure, which dampen interest in rural properties. This situation is reflected in the real estate market, where rural property prices are generally lower and expected to keep falling as urban migration continues.
Real estate agents and market analyses back this up, showing a clear trend: rural property prices are on a downward trajectory. If you're considering buying property in Cameroon, it's crucial to weigh these factors.
Sources: Migrants & Refugees, The Global Economy
7) Douala’s rental yields will rise with growing demand for rental properties
Rental yields in Douala are on the rise as more people flock to the city for its economic opportunities.
Douala is buzzing with activity, thanks to its status as an economic hub. This has led to a steady influx of people moving in, all looking for a place to call home. With the city's population growing, the demand for rental properties is naturally climbing.
Many newcomers are drawn by the promise of jobs and better living standards, but not everyone can buy a home right away. This means rental properties are in high demand, especially in the affordable and middle-income brackets.
Douala's job market is thriving, and with Cameroon's economy on the upswing, people have more money to spend. This increase in disposable income means more folks can afford to rent, adding fuel to the rental market's fire.
Urbanization is another key player here. As the city expands, the government is rolling out infrastructure projects, making Douala even more appealing for property investors. This development is driving up demand for rentals as the city becomes more livable.
For those considering property investment, Douala offers a promising landscape. The combination of economic growth, urbanization, and infrastructure improvements is creating a competitive rental market that's hard to ignore.
Sources: African Property Magazine, Douala Real Estate Market, Cameroon Price Forecasts
8) Rental yields in secondary cities will increase as more people leave major urban centers
In Cameroon, major cities like Douala and Yaoundé are bursting at the seams with people.
With Douala now home to over 3.6 million and Yaoundé surpassing 4 million, these cities are feeling the squeeze. High living costs and urban congestion are making it tough for folks to find affordable places to live. So, many are packing up and heading to secondary cities like Buea, Limbe, and Bamenda.
These smaller cities are becoming hotspots because they offer rental costs about 20% lower than Douala and Yaoundé. For those looking to cut down on expenses, this is a big draw. Plus, the rise of remote and hybrid work means people can live where they want, not just where they work.
Real estate agents are noticing this trend too. They’re seeing a growing demand for homes in these secondary cities. People are after larger homes and a better quality of life, which these areas can offer. It's not just about saving money; it's about living better.
As more people move away from the hustle and bustle of the big cities, rental yields in these secondary cities are expected to rise. This shift is creating new opportunities for property investors looking to tap into emerging markets.
So, if you're thinking about buying property in Cameroon, consider these secondary cities. They’re not just affordable; they’re on the rise, offering a promising future for both residents and investors.
Sources: Mobilise Your City - Douala, The Africa Logistics, African Property Magazine
We have made this infographic to give you a quick and clear snapshot of the property market in Cameroon. It highlights key facts like rental prices, yields, and property costs both in city centers and outside, so you can easily compare opportunities. We’ve done some research and also included useful insights about the country’s economy, like GDP, population, and interest rates, to help you understand the bigger picture.
9) Urban areas will see increased demand for affordable housing driven by the youth population
In Cameroon, 41.95% of the population is aged 0-14 as of 2023.
As these young people grow up, they'll be looking for jobs and places to live, especially in cities. Urbanization is on the rise, with 56% of Cameroonians living in urban areas in 2023, and it's expected to hit 70% by 2050. Young folks are flocking to cities like Yaoundé and Douala, hoping for better jobs and living conditions.
But here's the catch: affordable housing is hard to find. In Yaoundé, more than 60% of people live in informal settlements or slums. This shows just how tough it is to find a decent place to live without breaking the bank.
Cameroon is a lower middle-income country, which means many young people struggle to afford housing. The demand is there, but the supply of affordable options just isn't keeping up. This is a big deal for anyone thinking about investing in property here.
With the youth population growing and urbanization increasing, the need for affordable housing is only going to get bigger. If you're considering buying property, this is a trend worth watching. The potential for growth in the housing market is significant, especially if solutions to the housing shortage are found.
Investing in affordable housing could be a smart move, given the rising demand from young urban dwellers. It's a chance to be part of a solution while also tapping into a market with a lot of potential.
Sources: Trading Economics, World Bank, UN-Habitat
10) Kribi will emerge as a luxury real estate hotspot with its port expansion
Kribi is poised to become a prime spot for luxury real estate, thanks to its ongoing port expansion.
In 2024, the Port Authority of Kribi received new equipment, which boosted the port's handling capacity significantly. This upgrade set the stage for the next phase of the Kribi Deep Seaport expansion, starting in early 2025 and funded by China Eximbank. With this expansion, Kribi is expected to attract larger ships and more cargo, which will increase economic activity in the area.
The economic growth from the port expansion is already making waves in the property market. In 2024, over 300 direct jobs were created, and the industrial-port platform was strengthened, leading to a rise in property values. The Cameroonian government is pushing to make Kribi a business hub, with projects like the Kribi Industrial Zone, which is expected to draw more investors and further boost property values.
Kribi is also gaining fame as a tourist destination, thanks to its stunning beaches and vibrant fishing industry. This reputation is likely to increase demand for luxury real estate. Improved transportation links, such as new roads and the extension of the breakwater, make Kribi more accessible, enhancing its appeal to luxury real estate investors.
Real estate experts are predicting that these developments will lead to significant growth in Kribi's luxury real estate market. The combination of economic growth, government initiatives, and tourism appeal is setting the stage for Kribi to become a sought-after location for luxury properties.
Sources: SCMP, Business in Cameroon, Trends in Africa
11) Coastal area rents will rise as they gain popularity with tourists
Coastal areas in Cameroon are becoming a hot spot for tourists, boosting the number of visitors significantly.
By 2023, Cameroon was ranked third in Central Africa for tourist numbers, with many heading to the coast. The introduction of an electronic visa application process has made visiting even easier, further increasing tourist numbers.
With more tourists, the demand for accommodations has naturally risen. Back in 2019, the occupancy rate for hotels and similar accommodations was already climbing, reaching 29.5 percent. This trend continues as more people seek places to stay in these popular coastal spots.
The government is actively promoting tourism, which is likely to attract even more visitors. New attractions and infrastructure, like the Kribi Deep Seaport, are being developed to enhance the appeal of these areas. This development is expected to lead to increased rental demand as more tourists seek accommodations.
Investing in property here could be a smart move. As these coastal areas become more popular, rents are likely to increase, offering potential returns for property investors.
With the ongoing development and rising tourist numbers, the coastal regions of Cameroon are poised for growth, making them an attractive option for property buyers.
Sources: Nkafu, Statista, Cameroon Property Investment
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12) Rents will drop in insecure areas as people relocate to safer places
In 2023 and 2024, Cameroon faced significant security challenges, causing people to rethink where they live.
Over a million people packed up and moved to safer areas, seeking peace and stability. This shift was highlighted by the IMF report, which noted that as folks left conflict zones, the demand for housing there dropped.
With fewer people wanting to live in these troubled regions, property values and rental prices likely took a hit. The ADB report also mentioned that these areas are economically and socially vulnerable, which doesn't help property values either.
On the flip side, areas considered safer saw a boom in demand. This led to rising rents, as predicted by the CoStar Group. It's a clear sign of how much security concerns can shake up the housing market.
People are naturally drawn to places where they feel secure, and this migration trend is a testament to that. As more people move to these safer areas, rents are expected to keep climbing.
So, if you're thinking about buying property in Cameroon, keep an eye on these trends. Security issues are reshaping the real estate landscape, and understanding these shifts can help you make a smart investment.
Sources: IMF Report, ADB Report, CoStar Group Forecast
13) Rents in university towns like Buea will rise with growing student populations
The University of Buea is seeing a surge in student enrollment, and this trend is set to continue.
With a student body of 36,000, the university can only house 100 students in its residence halls, creating a huge gap in on-campus housing. This means students are scrambling to find places to live, often planning months ahead to secure a spot near campus.
Even though the government tries to keep rent prices in check, rents have been steadily climbing. Fixed prices for single and double rooms haven't stopped these increases, showing that demand is outpacing supply.
During the academic year, reports of housing shortages highlight the limited on-campus options, pushing students to look off-campus. Many are willing to pay more just to be close to their classes, which keeps the demand for nearby housing strong.
In university towns like Buea, this growing student population is a key factor driving up rents. The lack of on-campus housing forces students to compete for limited off-campus options, leading to higher rental prices.
As more students flock to Buea, the pressure on the housing market will likely increase, making it a hot spot for property investors. The combination of a growing student body and limited housing options means rents are poised to rise even further.
Sources: University World News, Multi-Housing News
14) Stricter property ownership rules will affect foreign investors
Stricter regulations on property ownership in Cameroon are shaking up the landscape for foreign investors.
In Cameroon, foreigners can buy buildings, but they often have to deal with leasehold arrangements for the land. This is different from local citizens who can own both the land and the buildings, making it a bit tricky for outsiders. Imagine wanting to invest but realizing you can't fully own the land your building sits on. This can make property investment less appealing to those from abroad.
Then there's the whole process of buying real estate as a foreigner, which can be a real headache. You have to interact with various government agencies and go through complex property registration and transfer procedures. It's not just a quick sign-and-go deal. This complexity can be a turn-off for investors who prefer straightforward opportunities.
Taxes are another hurdle. Foreign-owned properties face a range of taxes, including property tax, VAT on new property sales, Transfer Tax, and Capital Gains Tax. These can really add up, increasing the cost of investment and cutting into potential profits. For someone looking to maximize returns, this can be a significant downside.
These regulations and taxes are part of a broader effort to control property ownership and ensure that local citizens have more access to land. While this is great for locals, it means foreign investors have to navigate a more challenging landscape to make their investments work.
So, if you're thinking about investing in property in Cameroon, it's crucial to understand these regulations and how they might affect your plans. It's not just about finding the right property; it's about understanding the whole picture, from ownership rules to tax implications.
Sources: Cameroon Real Estate for Foreigners, Cameroon Price Forecasts, Kinsmen Advocates
While this article provides thoughtful analysis and insights based on credible and carefully selected sources, it is not, and should never be considered, financial advice. We put significant effort into researching, aggregating, and analyzing data to present you with an informed perspective. However, every analysis reflects subjective choices, such as the selection of sources and methodologies, and no single piece can encompass the full complexity of the market. Always conduct your own research, seek professional advice, and make decisions based on your own judgment. Any financial risks or losses remain your responsibility.