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Everything you need to know before buying real estate is included in our Gabon Property Pack
Gabon's property market in 2025 is stable at a high price level, with sharp increases seen in recent years but now plateauing. Libreville remains the country's most expensive market, while Port-Gentil offers slightly lower prices and stronger rental yields, driven by oil industry demand.
If you want to go deeper, you can check our pack of documents related to the real estate market in Gabon, based on reliable facts and data, not opinions or rumors.
Property prices in Gabon range from $45,000 for studio apartments in Port-Gentil to over $1 million for luxury homes in Libreville. The all-in purchase cost includes 12-20% in additional fees beyond the property price.
Rental yields are strongest in Port-Gentil (6-8%) compared to Libreville (5-7%), with short-term rentals averaging $90 per night in the capital.
| City | Average Price per m² | Studio/1BR Range | 2-3BR Range | Rental Yield |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Libreville | $950-$1,350 | $55,000-$80,000 | $95,000-$180,000 | 5-7% |
| Port-Gentil | $800-$1,200 | $45,000-$65,000 | $80,000-$150,000 | 6-8% |
| Suburbs | $600-$1,000 | $35,000-$55,000 | $65,000-$120,000 | 4-6% |
| New Build Premium | +10-20% | - | - | - |
| Older Properties | -15-25% | - | - | - |
What are the current property prices in Libreville, Port-Gentil, and other areas of Gabon?
Libreville commands the highest property prices in Gabon, with apartments averaging $1,200 per square meter for new builds in September 2025.
In Libreville's prime areas like Louis, Sablière, and Batterie IV, property prices reach $1,350-$1,500 per square meter for 2-3 bedroom units. Studio and one-bedroom apartments typically cost between $55,000 and $80,000, while larger 2-3 bedroom units range from $95,000 to $180,000. Luxury properties with 4+ bedrooms can reach $220,000 to $1,000,000.
Port-Gentil offers more affordable options, with prices approximately 20% lower than Libreville. The average price per square meter in Port-Gentil is around $960, making studio apartments available from $45,000-$65,000 and 2-3 bedroom units from $80,000-$150,000. The oil industry presence maintains strong demand and supports these price levels.
Suburban areas and satellite towns present significant savings, with prices 20-40% below city center averages. These areas are experiencing rapid urbanization and infrastructure development, making them attractive for budget-conscious buyers.
Land prices vary dramatically by location, with prime plots in Libreville starting at $50,000 for small sites, while Port-Gentil urban plots typically range from $35,000-$60,000.
How much do properties cost per square meter based on size and condition?
| Property Category | Libreville Price/m² | Port-Gentil Price/m² | Price Adjustment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio/1BR | $950-$1,350 | $800-$1,200 | Base rate |
| 2-3BR Standard | $1,150-$1,500 | $1,000-$1,350 | Base rate |
| 4+BR/Luxury | $1,500-$2,000 | $1,300-$1,700 | Premium category |
| New Build | +10-20% premium | +8-16% premium | Above base rates |
| Older/Renovation Needed | -15-25% discount | -10-20% discount | Below base rates |
| Suburban Properties | -20-40% discount | -20-40% discount | Below city centers |
What are the total all-in costs when buying property in Gabon?
The total purchase cost in Gabon extends well beyond the advertised property price, with additional fees ranging from 12-20% of the purchase price.
Notary fees represent the largest additional cost at 7-10% of the property value. These fees cover registration, legal documentation, and government taxes required for property transfer. Real estate agency fees typically add another 2-5% to your total cost.
VAT and transfer taxes contribute an additional 5-7% to the final bill. When combined, buyers should budget for total closing costs of 12-20% above the property price. For example, a $100,000 apartment in Libreville will require an additional $14,000-$20,000 in fees and taxes, bringing your total investment to $114,000-$120,000.
It's something we develop in our Gabon property pack.
These costs are mandatory and cannot be avoided, making it crucial to factor them into your budget from the beginning. The higher end of the range typically applies to more expensive properties or complex transactions involving foreign buyers.
What mortgage and financing options are available for buying property in Gabon?
Local banks in Gabon offer mortgage financing primarily to residents, with loan terms typically spanning 10-20 years at interest rates of 8-10% for CFA franc-denominated loans.
For Gabonese residents and legal residents, down payment requirements are generally 20-30% of the property value. Foreign buyers face more restrictive conditions, with down payments often requiring 30-50% of the purchase price. Interest rates for non-residents or USD-linked loans tend to be higher than the standard 8-10% range.
Monthly payment calculations for a typical scenario show the financial commitment involved. For a median property valued at $100,000 with a 10% interest rate on a 15-year loan, monthly payments would be approximately $1,000-$1,100. Qualification requirements include proof of income, residence status, and investment track record.
Foreign buyers should expect limited financing options compared to residents, making cash purchases more common among international investors. Banks require extensive documentation and may request additional guarantees for non-resident borrowers.
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Can you provide real examples of recent property sales and listings in Gabon?
Recent market activity in September 2025 demonstrates current pricing trends across different property types and locations in Gabon.
In Libreville, a 2-bedroom apartment measuring 85 square meters in a new build development sold for $102,000 in June 2025. This central location property exemplifies the premium prices commanded in the capital's prime areas. The sale price translates to approximately $1,200 per square meter, consistent with current market averages for new construction.
Port-Gentil's market shows strong rental demand alongside sales activity. A renovated 1-bedroom apartment of 60 square meters near the oil district was recently listed for $55,000 and attracted a tenant within two weeks of listing. This rapid rental success demonstrates the strong demand driven by oil sector workers in the area.
Suburban market examples show different dynamics, with a 3-bedroom family house in older construction measuring 130 square meters selling for $112,000. This property required renovations, which was reflected in the discounted price compared to similar properties in better condition.
These examples illustrate the price variations between locations, property conditions, and the strong rental market that supports investment decisions in both major cities.
Which neighborhoods offer the best value and investment potential in different price ranges?
Gabon's property market divides into distinct tiers based on location, amenities, and investment potential, each offering different opportunities for buyers and investors.
The most expensive neighborhoods center around Libreville's prime districts including Louis, Sablière, and Batterie IV. These areas command premium prices due to their urban amenities, business district proximity, embassy locations, and superior safety levels. Investment yields in these areas typically reach around 5%, supported by consistent demand from diplomatic staff and business executives.
Port-Gentil's CBD and waterfront areas represent the highest-priced locations outside Libreville, with strong resale and rental potential driven by oil industry demand and the expatriate workforce. These areas offer some of the best rental yields in the country due to consistent occupancy from well-paid oil sector employees.
Budget-friendly and up-and-coming areas present the strongest growth potential. Libreville suburbs like Owendo and Glass are experiencing rapid urbanization with new infrastructure development and affordable housing projects. These areas offer entry points for budget-conscious investors while benefiting from proximity to employment centers.
Port-Gentil's industrial edge provides cheaper entry points while maintaining strong workforce demand. Smart investment picks include upper-middle-range properties such as new or renovated apartments in emerging neighborhoods close to transport links and oil industry jobs.
It's something we develop in our Gabon property pack.
What areas and property types offer the best quality of life for residents?
For owner-occupiers prioritizing quality of life, Libreville's Louis and Batterie IV districts offer the highest safety levels, best schools, comprehensive amenities, and convenient commutes to business districts.
These premium areas provide international-standard infrastructure, reliable utilities, quality healthcare facilities, and established expatriate communities. Housing options range from modern apartments to standalone houses with gardens, catering to different family sizes and preferences.
Budget-conscious families should consider Libreville suburbs like Owendo and Glass, which offer good family life with new schools, lower costs, and growing community amenities. These areas benefit from ongoing infrastructure improvements while maintaining more affordable property prices and living costs.
Port-Gentil's central and expatriate areas provide higher safety levels, walkability, strong community networks, and modern services. The oil industry presence ensures good infrastructure maintenance and reliable utilities, making it suitable for international residents working in the energy sector.
Transportation links, proximity to quality schools, healthcare facilities, and shopping centers should factor into residential decisions. Areas with planned infrastructure improvements often offer the best combination of current livability and future property appreciation potential.
Where do short-term rentals perform best and what regulations apply?
Libreville's short-term rental market shows strong performance with average occupancy rates of 28% and nightly rates averaging $90 as of September 2025.
Properties in central Libreville generate average monthly Airbnb revenues of $3,749, making short-term rentals attractive for investors with suitable properties in tourist and business areas. Port-Gentil maintains strong short-term demand from oil sector professionals and business travelers, with nightly rates slightly below Libreville levels but often with higher occupancy due to consistent business travel.
Regulatory requirements include registration with city authorities and payment of short-term rental taxes ranging from 1-2% of revenue. Property owners must obtain temporary licenses, which are usually straightforward to acquire but require proper documentation and compliance with local safety standards.
Success factors for short-term rentals include proximity to business districts, airports, tourist attractions, and oil industry facilities. Properties with modern amenities, reliable internet, and professional management tend to achieve higher occupancy rates and premium pricing.
The regulatory environment remains relatively business-friendly, though owners should stay informed about potential changes to taxation or licensing requirements as the market develops.
We did some research and made this infographic to help you quickly compare rental yields of the major cities in Gabon 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.
Which areas provide the strongest long-term rental demand and yields?
Port-Gentil leads Gabon's long-term rental market with yields of 6-8%, driven by consistent demand from oil industry workers and stable employment in the energy sector.
Rental rates in Port-Gentil range from $350-$600 monthly for apartments, with strong tenant retention due to the specialized workforce and limited housing supply relative to demand. The oil industry provides employment stability that translates into reliable rental income for property owners.
Libreville apartments typically command monthly rents of $400-$700 for 1-2 bedroom units, generating yields of 5-7%. The capital's diverse economy, government employment, international organizations, and business activity create steady rental demand across different property types.
Suburban houses in both cities rent for $600-$1,000 monthly, generating yields of 4-6%. These properties appeal to families and professionals seeking more space and garden areas while remaining accessible to employment centers.
Net yields after management costs, maintenance, taxes, and vacancy periods typically range from 3.5-7% depending on location and property management efficiency. Properties in established areas with good transport links and amenities tend to achieve the higher end of yield ranges.
What catalysts support property resale potential and what holding costs should I expect?
Key catalysts for property appreciation in Gabon include infrastructure development such as new roads and bridges, government incentives for real estate development, Chinese investment in infrastructure projects, and new oil and industrial developments.
Areas near planned infrastructure improvements or commercial expansion projects show the greatest resale potential. Government initiatives supporting urban development and foreign investment create positive conditions for property value growth in targeted areas.
Holding costs for investment properties include utilities averaging $120-$200 monthly, annual property taxes of 1-1.5% of property value, and renovation costs of $75-$130 per square meter for improvements. Insurance, management fees, and periodic maintenance add to ongoing expenses.
Renovation projects can significantly improve property values, particularly in older buildings or emerging neighborhoods where improvements stand out in the local market. However, renovation costs must be carefully calculated against potential value increases and rental income improvements.
It's something we develop in our Gabon property pack.
Market timing for resale depends on local economic conditions, oil prices, and infrastructure completion timelines. Properties in areas benefiting from completed infrastructure projects typically see faster appreciation than those still awaiting improvements.
How have property prices, rents, and yields changed over recent years?
Gabon's property market has experienced significant volatility over different time periods, with recent stabilization following earlier dramatic changes.
Over the past year through September 2025, prices have remained stable after previous increases, with rents and yields holding strong particularly in oil industry and central market areas. This stability suggests the market has found a sustainable level after earlier adjustments.
The five-year trend shows dramatic growth, with Libreville property prices increasing by +86.65% while net rental yields also improved. This substantial appreciation reflected increased foreign investment, infrastructure development, and economic growth driven by natural resource developments.
However, the 10-year view reveals more complex patterns, with the long-term average showing -13.29% according to market indices. This reflects an earlier boom period followed by stabilization and some correction, demonstrating the cyclical nature of emerging market real estate.
Key drivers of these trends include oil sector performance, foreign investment levels, public housing policies, infrastructure progress, and overall GDP and inflation stability. The oil industry remains a crucial factor in property demand, particularly in Port-Gentil and related employment centers.
What's the outlook for Gabon's property market over the next 1, 5, and 10 years?
The short-term outlook for 2025-2026 suggests continued market stability with potential for slight price declines, though dramatic crashes appear unlikely given current economic fundamentals and demand patterns.
Medium-term prospects over the next five years depend heavily on new infrastructure projects, continued investment, and oil demand levels. Government infrastructure initiatives and foreign investment should support moderate growth, particularly in areas benefiting from completed projects.
Long-term projections over 10 years show strongest growth potential in Port-Gentil and emerging Libreville suburbs, driven by urbanization trends and government policy initiatives. Infrastructure development, population growth, and economic diversification efforts will likely determine market performance.
Compared to regional markets, Libreville property prices exceed those in Brazzaville but lag behind major centers like Luanda and Lagos. Port-Gentil's higher rental yields due to oil demand make it competitive regionally for income-focused investors.
Success factors include continued political stability, oil market performance, infrastructure completion, and government policies supporting real estate investment. Diversification of the economy beyond oil dependence will also influence long-term market sustainability and growth potential.
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.
Libreville offers premium stability and urban lifestyle opportunities for those prioritizing location and amenities.
Port-Gentil excels in rental demand and yields driven by oil industry employment, while suburban and up-and-coming zones present value opportunities and long-term growth potential.
Sources
- TheAfricanVestor - Gabon Real Estate Forecasts
- TheAfricanVestor - Gabon Price Forecasts
- TheAfricanVestor - Gabon Real Estate Market
- AirROI - Libreville Property Report
- Expatistan - Gabon Cost of Living
- European External Action Service - Gabon Real Estate
- Numbeo - Libreville Cost of Living
- Global Property Guide - Gabon Square Meter Prices