Complete Guide to Buying Property in Botswana

Everything you need to know — from mortgage pre-approval to transfer of title. Updated for 2024–2025.

How to Buy Property in Botswana

Buying property in Botswana is a structured, legally transparent process. This guide walks you through every step so you can buy with confidence — whether you're a first-time buyer or an experienced investor.
Set Your Budget & Get Pre-Approved
Before searching for property, understand your finances. In Botswana, mortgage loans are available through commercial banks including Access, FNB, Stanbic, ABSA and BBS. Most banks lend up to 90% of property value for citizens and 70% for non-citizens.
Transfer duty (paid by the buyer) is calculated as follows: 0% on the first P200,000 — then 5% on the balance. Factor this into your budget.
Find a Registered Real Estate Agent
Always use a REAC-registered agent. In Botswana, unregistered agents operate illegally. Sam Associates agents are all REAC-certified and can represent you as a buyer — at no extra cost, as commission is paid by the seller.→Meet our Gaborone agents
Search for Property
Browse our full listings for houses, apartments, plots and commercial properties for sale in Gaborone. Our agents also have access to off-market properties not yet advertised publicly.
→ Browse property for sale in Gaborone
Make an Offer
Once you've found your property, your agent will submit a written offer on your behalf. The seller can accept, reject or counter-offer. Once both parties agree, a Sale Agreement is drawn up by a conveyancing attorney.
Conveyancing & Legal Process
A conveyancing attorney (appointed by the seller) handles the legal transfer. You'll need to provide: copy of Omang/passport, proof of residence, PAYE number (for tax). The process typically takes 6–12 weeks.
Transfer Duty & Registration
Transfer duty must be paid to BURS before the property is registered at the Deeds Registry in your name. Once registered, the property is legally yours.Congratulations — you're a Botswana property owner. 🎉Foreign Buyers in Botswana
Non-citizens can buy property in Botswana. Key points: freehold land can be owned outright; state land (leasehold) has different rules. Foreign buyers must obtain BURS registration and are eligible for bank mortgage loans at slightly different terms. Our agents specialise in guiding international buyers.

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The Essential Home Buyer's guide by Sam Associates Botswana,

Buying a home in Gaborone's current market requires more than just property search portal,with shifting tranfer duty laws and the rise of Gaborone North, Tlokweng and Mogoditshane as investments hotsports, you need data-driven strategy to find the right property.

Since 1992, Sam Associates has helped hundreds of Batswana nevigate the complexities of real estate. Our latest guide with 30 plus years of expertise translated into actionable pdf

Buyer Guide FAQs

How do I buy property in Gaborone?
Start by searching for property, arranging financing, submitting an offer, signing a sale agreement, and completing the legal transfer.

How much does a house cost in Gaborone?
House prices vary by location and size, typically ranging from starter homes to luxury properties across different neighbourhoods in Gaborone.

Can foreigners buy property in Botswana?
Yes, foreigners can buy property in Botswana, subject to certain regulations and approvals.

Do I need a real estate agent to buy property?
Working with experienced agents like Sam Associates Botswana helps buyers find suitable properties and navigate the purchase process.

What documents are needed to buy property?
Buyers typically need identification, proof of funds or mortgage approval, and a signed sale agreement.

View available homes for sale in Gaborone now