Buying real estate in Senegal?

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

How much for a property in Senegal now?

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

buying property foreigner Senegal

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

Senegal's property market is offering significant opportunities in 2025, with prices ranging from 500,000 CFA/m² in suburban areas to over 5.5 million CFA/m² in prime Dakar locations.

Property prices in Dakar have increased 23% over the past five years, driven by urbanization, infrastructure investments, and strong diaspora demand. Whether you're considering a luxury villa in Almadies, a mid-market apartment in Fann, or land in the fast-developing Diamniadio area, understanding the current pricing structure and market dynamics is essential for making informed investment decisions.

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

How this content was created 🔎📝

At The AfricanVestor, we explore the Senegalese 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 Dakar, Rufisque, and Diamniadio. 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.

What type of property are you considering—apartment, villa, land, new-build, or fixer-upper?

The Senegalese property market offers five main property types, each with distinct price ranges and investment characteristics as of September 2025.

Apartments dominate Dakar's prime districts like Almadies, Point E, and Ngor, where luxury units range from 60-200 m² with modern amenities and dedicated parking. These properties attract expat and investor demand, driving consistent price appreciation of 15-20% annually in top-tier locations.

Luxury villas are concentrated in prestigious neighborhoods, particularly Almadies and Ngor, where properties exceed 200 m² and command premium prices of 3.5-5.5 million CFA per square meter. These villas often feature private gardens, pools, and security systems, making them popular among high-net-worth individuals and expatriate professionals.

Land purchases are particularly attractive in fast-developing areas like Diamniadio and coastal towns such as Ngaparou, Saly, and Toubab Dialaw. Infrastructure projects and resort developments are driving land values up by 15-20% annually, making serviced plots an excellent choice for long-term appreciation.

New-build properties dominate gated communities and high-rise districts in urbanizing zones, offering modern construction standards and contemporary amenities that appeal to both local and international buyers seeking move-in ready solutions.

Fixer-uppers present value opportunities in historic areas like Plateau and budget-friendly districts such as Pikine, where renovation projects can yield significant returns for investors willing to manage construction and permits.

Which city and neighborhood in Senegal are you focused on, and do you have a second-choice area?

Dakar remains the primary focus for property investment, with distinct neighborhoods serving different market segments and investment strategies.

Almadies stands as Senegal's most prestigious neighborhood, commanding 3.5-5.5 million CFA per square meter for luxury properties. This coastal area attracts expatriates, diplomats, and wealthy locals, offering excellent security, international amenities, and strong rental yields for short-term holiday rentals.

Point E serves as the professional hub, with prices ranging from 2.5-4 million CFA per square meter. This neighborhood appeals to business executives and established families, providing excellent schools, healthcare facilities, and reliable infrastructure that supports consistent property values.

Fann emerges as a top up-and-coming area, balancing affordability with future appreciation potential at 1.5-2.5 million CFA per square meter. The green, residential character attracts middle-class families and investors seeking value plays in established neighborhoods.

Diamniadio represents the fastest-growing opportunity outside central Dakar, with prices at 1-2 million CFA per square meter driven by planned infrastructure projects and new city development initiatives.

Secondary markets include Rufisque for industrial and logistics access, coastal towns like Saly and Ngaparou for tourism-related investments, and Pikine for entry-level housing with strong local community ties and budget-friendly pricing at 500,000-1 million CFA per square meter.

What size and layout do you need (bedrooms, bathrooms, interior m², outdoor space, parking)?

Property Size Typical Layout Target Market Price Range (Almadies)
60-80 m² 2 bed, 1-2 bath, 1 parking Young professionals, couples 210-280M CFA
90-120 m² 3 bed, 2 bath, 1-2 parking Small families, investors 315-420M CFA
130-160 m² 3-4 bed, 2-3 bath, 2 parking Growing families, executives 455-560M CFA
170-200 m² 4-5 bed, 3-4 bath, 2-3 parking Large families, luxury market 595-700M CFA
200+ m² 5+ bed, 4+ bath, 3+ parking Ultra-luxury, diplomatic 700M+ CFA

What is your all-in budget today, including notary fees, agency commissions, registration, and any other closing costs?

Closing costs in Senegal typically add 10-12% above the purchase price, making budget planning essential for accurate financial projections.

Notary fees represent 2-3% of the property value, covering legal documentation, title verification, and official registration processes. These fees are mandatory and non-negotiable, calculated based on standardized government rates.

Agency commissions range from 3-5% of the purchase price, typically split between buyer and seller depending on market conditions and negotiation. Premium properties in Almadies often command higher commission rates due to specialized marketing requirements.

Registration and administrative costs add another 2-3% for property title transfer, municipal taxes, and government processing fees. These costs vary slightly by commune but remain relatively consistent across Dakar's main districts.

Additional expenses may include property surveys (500,000-1,500,000 CFA), legal consultation (300,000-800,000 CFA), and mortgage arrangement fees if financing is required.

For example, a 75 million CFA apartment will require approximately 83-84 million CFA all-in budget, while a 200 million CFA villa needs around 222-224 million CFA total investment.

Will you need a mortgage, and if so what down payment, rate, term, and monthly payment range work for you?

Senegalese mortgage market requires substantial down payments and offers limited terms compared to international standards, making cash purchases common among serious investors.

Down payment requirements range from 20-30% of property value, with banks preferring higher ratios for non-resident buyers. Local banks typically require 25% minimum, while international lenders may accept 20% for qualified borrowers with strong credit profiles.

Interest rates currently span 6.5-8.5% annually, depending on borrower profile, loan amount, and property type. Prime borrowers with local income sources access lower rates, while foreign investors face higher financing costs.

Loan terms are typically limited to 15-20 years maximum, with most banks preferring shorter durations to minimize risk exposure. This creates higher monthly payments compared to longer-term international mortgages.

For a 75 million CFA apartment with 25% down (18.75M CFA down payment), monthly payments range from 500,000-700,000 CFA depending on rate and term. A 150 million CFA villa with 30% down would require monthly payments of 900,000-1,200,000 CFA.

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Is the goal to live in it, rent it short-term, rent it long-term, or buy–renovate–resell, and what target net yield or profit are you aiming for?

Investment strategy determines optimal property selection and location focus, with each approach offering distinct return profiles in Senegal's market.

Owner-occupancy works best in central, secure, well-serviced areas like Almadies, Point E, and Plateau, where infrastructure reliability, security, and amenities support comfortable daily living. These areas maintain stable values and offer excellent resale potential when relocation becomes necessary.

Short-term rental strategies yield highest returns in coastal and luxury zones, generating up to 7-8% net annual returns in prime tourist areas. Properties in Almadies, Ngor, and coastal developments attract international visitors, business travelers, and expatriate short-term housing needs.

Long-term rental investments perform strongest in mid-market communities like Fann, Sacré-Coeur, and Diamniadio, where stable tenant demand from growing professional classes supports consistent 4-6% annual yields with lower vacancy risks.

Buy-renovate-resell strategies work best in Plateau, Fann, and Diamniadio, where renovation projects can achieve 8-12% returns on high-growth assets. Historic properties in Plateau offer particular value for investors with construction expertise and patience for permit processes.

Government-backed and diaspora-supported affordable housing projects provide moderate 3-5% annual appreciation with lower risk profiles, suitable for conservative investors seeking steady returns without active management requirements.

In your target areas, what are recent closing prices for comparable properties at entry-level, mid-market, and prime tiers?

Recent closing prices vary significantly across Dakar's neighborhoods, reflecting distinct market segments and buyer profiles as of September 2025.

Entry-level properties in suburban areas like Pikine and Yoff close at 500,000-1,000,000 CFA per square meter, typically offering basic 2-3 bedroom apartments of 60-80 m² with limited amenities but strong community connections.

Mid-market transactions in Sacré-Coeur, Fann, and Diamniadio range from 1.2-2.5 million CFA per square meter, featuring 3-4 bedroom properties of 90-140 m² with modern finishes, parking, and access to good schools and transport links.

Prime tier sales in Almadies, Point E, and Ngor command 3.5-5.5 million CFA per square meter for luxury apartments and villas exceeding 120 m², offering premium amenities, security, sea views, and proximity to international facilities.

Specific recent transactions include a 60 m² apartment in Almadies selling for 77-80 million CFA, representing strong demand for compact luxury units. A 200 m² coastal villa recently closed at 320 million CFA, demonstrating continued appetite for luxury properties among expatriate buyers.

Land transactions in Diamniadio show serviced plots selling for 15,000-25,000 CFA per square meter, while coastal land in Saly commands 30,000-50,000 CFA per square meter depending on proximity to beach access and infrastructure.

Which neighborhoods are currently the most expensive, which are up-and-coming, and which offer the best value on a budget?

1. **Most Expensive Neighborhoods:** - Almadies leads at 3.5-5.5M CFA/m² with diplomatic and expatriate premium - Point E commands 2.5-4M CFA/m² for established professional market - Ngor coastal area reaches 3-4.5M CFA/m² for beachfront luxury - Plateau historic center maintains 2-3.5M CFA/m² for prime commercial access - Les Mamelles achieves 2.5-3.5M CFA/m² for elevated residential prestige2. **Up-and-Coming Areas:** - Fann balances green spaces with 1.5-2.5M CFA/m² pricing and 10-15% annual growth - Diamniadio new city development shows 15-20% growth at 1-2M CFA/m² base prices - Sacré-Coeur residential community growth at 1.2-2M CFA/m² with family appeal - Rufisque industrial corridor benefits from port expansion and logistics development - Coastal developments in Ngaparou and Saly for tourism and retirement markets3. **Best Budget Value:** - Pikine offers 0.5-1M CFA/m² with authentic local culture and transport access - Yoff provides 0.8-1.2M CFA/m² near airport with community atmosphere - Guédiawaye shows 0.6-1.1M CFA/m² for growing working-class families - Thiaroye coastal access at 0.7-1.3M CFA/m² with fishing community heritage - Parcelles Assainies planned development at 0.9-1.4M CFA/m² with infrastructure potential
infographics rental yields citiesSenegal

We did some research and made this infographic to help you quickly compare rental yields of the major cities in Senegal 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.

Given your goals, what are the smartest options right now by property type and area (with example listings or comps to validate)?

Smart property choices depend on investment timeline, risk tolerance, and return objectives, with specific opportunities emerging across different market segments.

For growth-focused investors, new-build apartments and serviced land plots in Diamniadio offer 15-20% annual appreciation potential. Example opportunities include 90 m² new apartments priced at 140-160 million CFA, positioned for infrastructure-driven value increases as the new administrative capital develops.

Prestige seekers should target luxury villas in Almadies, Ngor, or Point E, where properties maintain values and attract premium tenant demand. A typical example is a 180 m² villa in Almadies listing at 630-680 million CFA, offering sea views, security, and strong rental potential for diplomatic or expatriate tenants.

Value investors find opportunities in mid-market units or renovation projects in Fann, Sacré-Coeur, and Pikine. Example listings include 120 m² fixer-uppers in Fann for 150-180 million CFA, offering renovation potential with 25-35% total return projections after improvements.

Rental income strategies work best with 2-3 bedroom apartments in Sacré-Coeur or Point E, where 100-130 m² units priced at 180-250 million CFA generate steady monthly rents of 800,000-1,200,000 CFA for professional tenants.

Land banking strategies should focus on coastal plots in Saly or Ngaparou, where serviced lots of 500-1000 m² cost 15-35 million CFA and benefit from tourism development and retirement community growth.

How have prices in your target areas moved versus 5 years ago and versus 1 year ago, and what's driving the change?

Senegal's property market shows robust price appreciation driven by multiple structural factors, with Dakar leading regional growth trends.

Five-year price movements reveal strong appreciation across all market segments: Almadies luxury properties increased 20%, Point E professional housing rose 15-18%, Fann up-and-coming areas gained 10-15%, Sacré-Coeur mid-market expanded 10-12%, while even budget Pikine properties appreciated 8-10%.

One-year price changes show continued momentum with Dakar apartments increasing 3-7% annually, driven by sustained demand and limited quality supply. Prime areas like Almadies and Point E outperformed with 5-7% gains, while emerging areas maintained steady 3-5% growth.

Urbanization drives fundamental demand as rural populations migrate to Dakar for economic opportunities, creating sustained pressure on housing supply and supporting price appreciation across all market segments.

Infrastructure investments fuel growth through planned projects including new administrative capital development in Diamniadio, improved transport links, and expanded utilities reaching previously underserved areas.

Political stability under current leadership encourages both domestic and international investment confidence, supporting property market liquidity and cross-border capital flows into real estate assets.

Diaspora investment represents significant demand from Senegalese living abroad who purchase properties for family use, rental income, or retirement planning, creating consistent buying pressure especially in middle and upper market segments.

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

What is the realistic price outlook (base case, upside, downside) for 1, 5, and 10 years, and what indicators will you track?

Timeframe Base Case Upside Scenario Downside Risk
1 Year (2026) 4-6% growth 7-9% growth 1-2% growth
5 Years (2030) 25-35% cumulative 45-55% cumulative 10-15% cumulative
10 Years (2035) 60-80% cumulative 100-130% cumulative 25-35% cumulative
Prime Districts Bonus +2-3% annually +4-5% annually +1% annually
Emerging Areas Bonus +3-5% annually +8-12% annually 0-2% annually

Key monitoring indicators include GDP growth rates, which should maintain 4-6% annually to support property demand and purchasing power. Infrastructure project completion timelines, particularly Diamniadio development and transport improvements, will drive location-specific price movements.

Foreign direct investment levels indicate international confidence and capital availability for real estate transactions. Government housing policy changes, including affordable housing initiatives and foreign ownership regulations, may impact market dynamics significantly.

Inflation rates affect both construction costs and buyer affordability, with target ranges of 2-4% annually supporting sustainable market growth without undermining purchasing power or development economics.

How do prices, yields, fees, and growth prospects in your target areas compare to similar cities in West Africa and beyond?

Dakar's property market positions competitively within West Africa, offering unique advantages and challenges compared to regional peers and international alternatives.

Price comparisons show Dakar's prime real estate outpacing Abidjan, Accra, and Lomé in absolute terms, with Almadies luxury properties commanding higher per-square-meter rates than comparable neighborhoods in neighboring capitals. However, this premium reflects superior infrastructure, political stability, and international connectivity.

Rental yields remain competitive for both short and long-term strategies, with Dakar's 4-8% annual returns matching or exceeding regional averages. Tourist areas particularly outperform, benefiting from Senegal's stable tourism sector and French-language advantage for European visitors.

Closing costs and fees present challenges, with Senegal's 10-12% transaction costs among West Africa's highest, compared to 6-8% in Ghana or Côte d'Ivoire. This affects investor returns and market liquidity, requiring careful financial planning for acquisition strategies.

Mortgage accessibility lags more mature African markets, with limited financing options and high down payment requirements restricting buyer pools compared to South Africa, Kenya, or Morocco where financing infrastructure supports broader market participation.

Growth prospects favor Dakar due to planned infrastructure investments, particularly Diamniadio new city development, which exceeds similar urban planning initiatives in regional competitor cities. Political stability and diaspora connections provide additional demand support not available in all regional markets.

It's something we develop in our Senegal 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. TheAfricanVestor - Best Areas in Senegal
  2. TheAfricanVestor - Dakar Property Market
  3. Reddit - Best Areas to Buy Land in Senegal
  4. Statista - Senegal Residential Real Estate Outlook
  5. Loger Dakar - Real Estate Market in Senegal
  6. TheAfricanVestor - Dakar Price Forecasts
  7. TheAfricanVestor - Senegal Price Forecasts
  8. Knight Frank - Africa Report 2024