Property Development - how it works

All you need to know to make an easy move to the Gambia

Purchasing an existing property

If you have an idea of what area you want to live in let us know and we will try and locate a property for sale and advise you. If not we have various properties already on our books for sale in the locality that you may wish to view. If you want to build your own custom home we can try and locate a plot of land for you. Click here to see houses and villas for sale and rent.

Buying land for a custom build

All land in the gambia is leasehold and any land you purchase has to be registered with the local Alkalo (village chief), Seyfo (district chief) and the relevant local government body. This might sound imposing but our solicitors will act on your behalf to cover all of the legalities.

Buying land in the Gambia is perfectly safe provided you do not select a place directly adjacent to the sea as this might be used for new hotels. In reality this is no more of a risk than compulsory purchase is in the UK.

A lease runs for 99 years and is automatically renewed. Once your land is purchased, the first stage in the development process is to build a wall around the land and a gatehouse, then a borehole. Once water is available then building can be started on your property.

Location location location...

Whether you are buying an existing property or buying land to build your home to your own specifications, we can provide you with a portfolio of available plots and villas to help you make your choice. We are able to send example floor plans and information about fixtures and fittings. You can either use these examples for your own place or use them to stir your creative side if you want to discuss variations

Financial arrangements for new developments

We can only provide estimates once we have discussed your individual requirements; your wish list. However, See below for the standard payment profile for the various stages of building development. Note: The payment profile is subject to negotiation and circumstantial variations

60% up front deposit
30% prior to the roof being put in place
10% on completion

Visiting during developments

Should you wish to visit during development we can arrange for a place for you to stay or if you have made your own arrangements we will collect you from your hotel for a tour of the property. Whether or not you visit we will keep you posted with pictures of your property as the development progresses.

Shipping your possessions

After the property is completed and you are ready to move in there are a number of shipping agents who can help you. They can arrange for a container to be delivered to your house which, once loaded, is sealed and shipped to your new home in the Gambia. Alternatively you can purchase your own container which will stay with you after delivery. Some people use these containers as workshops. See our useful links page for a list