Property investment in Namibia for South Africans
Namibia is a beautiful and diverse country with a stable political and economic climate, making it a prime destination for property investment. South Africans are particularly drawn to Namibia due to its close proximity, similar culture and affordable property prices.
Schantal Teichmann, franchisee of Just Property Windhoek and Just Property Swakopmund, shares her insights into why investing in Namibian property is a good idea for South Africans.
There are many advantages to investing in property in Namibia:
- Strong rental demand: Namibia has a growing population and a thriving tourism industry, which means there is a high demand for rental properties.
- Capital appreciation: Property prices in Namibia have been rising steadily in recent years and are expected to continue to do so. According to The Brief, “Namibia’s property market has witnessed a staggering 1 258% surge in average housing prices between January 1990 and March 2023… While the coastal and central house prices had diverged between 2016 and 2022, recent data from 1Q2023 indicates a narrowing gap, with coastal houses now the most expensive (averaging N$1.6 million), followed by the central area (N$1.5 million), the north (N$869 000), and the south (N$795 000).”
- Tax benefits: Namibia has several tax benefits for property investors, such as no capital gains tax or inheritance tax. According to Henley and Partners, “foreign residents are generally only taxed on the income they generate in the country. What is more, tax rates are relatively competitive compared with many other emerging markets, particularly with neighbouring countries such as South Africa. The top rate of income tax in Namibia is a modest 37%, but perhaps most notably there are no capital gains, estate, gift, inheritance or net wealth/worth taxes.”
- Lifestyle benefits: Namibia offers a high quality of life, with stunning scenery, friendly people and a variety of outdoor activities to enjoy.
If you are a South African interested in investing in property in Namibia, the process is relatively straightforward – as long as the property in question doesn’t fall under the category of agricultural land. You will need to obtain a non-resident buyer’s permit, which can be done through the Namibian Ministry of Home Affairs. Once you have your permit, you can start looking for properties and making offers.
Overall, property investment in Namibia is a wise choice for South Africans looking for a stable and profitable investment. With its strong rental demand, capital appreciation potential and tax benefits, Namibia offers several advantages for property investors.
Teichmann has lived in Namibia her entire life. When she saw an opening for a company that could provide exclusive letting and administrative services, she started Just Property Windhoek in 2005 and later opened Just Property Swakopmund in 2021.
“My love for people motivated me to help people find and manage investments so that they could grow their wealth through property,” she says.
Below, she answers five questions that South Africans frequently ask her:
1. How can South Africans buy property in Namibia?
South Africans can buy property in Namibia through Just Property. We have two teams of experienced and knowledgeable agents who can help you find the perfect property for your investment needs, whether that be a home purchase, investment property or rental property management.
To get started, simply contact Just Property Windhoek or Just Property Swakopmund and let us know your criteria for a property investment. We will then send you a selection of suitable properties to choose from. Once you have found a property that you are interested in, we will help you negotiate the best price and arrange the purchase.
2. What are the unique selling points of the service your team offers?
Just Property is a leading real estate agency in Namibia, with a team of experienced and knowledgeable agents who are passionate about helping our clients achieve their property goals. We are committed to providing our clients with the best possible service, and we go the extra mile to ensure their needs are met. Honesty, loyalty and perseverance are the hallmarks of our professional service.
3. Why are South Africans buying property in Namibia?
South Africans are buying property in Namibia for several reasons, including:
- Political and economic stability: Namibia is a politically and economically stable country, with a strong democracy and a growing economy.
- Close proximity: Namibia is located just a short flight from South Africa, making it an ideal destination for holidays and second homes.
- Similar culture: Namibia has a similar culture to South Africa, with a diverse population and a relaxed lifestyle.
- Affordable property prices: Property prices in Namibia are generally more affordable than in South Africa, making it a good value-for-money investment.
4. Why Windhoek?
Windhoek is the capital of Namibia and the epicentre of all commercial trading. It is a modern and vibrant city with a lot to offer residents and visitors alike. Windhoek is also a great place to invest in property. The city has a growing population and a strong economy, which is driving up demand for rental properties. Additionally, the Namibian government is investing heavily in infrastructure development in Windhoek, which is further boosting the property market.
5. What sort of properties do you recommend?
The type of property will depend on each client’s individual needs and budget. However, some of the most popular types are property investments. Buyers should keep an eye on Just Property Windhoek’s marketing platforms to be the first informed of amazing properties to buy, as it is a buyer’s market at the moment.
If you have further questions about investing in Namibia, Just Property can assist. Contact our well-informed team at 0026 46 122 0673 or email windhoek@just.property.