What is a House?

A house is a single-unit residential building, which may range in complexity from a rudimentary hut to a complex structure of wood, masonry, concrete or other material, outfitted with plumbing, electrical, and heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems.

Where and how to buy a house in Namibia

In Namibia, there are no restrictions on nonresident foreigners and legal aliens owning property in Namibia. Most property ownerships are freehold except for agricultural land.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a house cost in Namibia?

THE average national housing price in Namibia at the end of December 2019 stood at about N$1,1 million says Frans Uusiku, the market researcher at First National Bank Namibia.

How do you buy a house when you already own a house in Namibia?

• Start house hunting right away.
• Make an offer on your dream home and request an extended closing.
• If you have savings, you may use that to purchase the home.
• Close on the new home.
• Consider renting your old home until it sells.

Can I move to Namibia?

Visas. If you are moving to Namibia to work or live there for a longer period of time or if you are not a citizen of one of the countries exempt from these visa regulations, then you will need to apply for a visa or work permit before your departure.

How long does it take to build a house in Namibia?

On average, it takes seven months to build a house from start to finish, according to a 2019 U.S. Census Bureau report. But you may also need to include time for an architect to draw up plans (1–4 months).

How dangerous is Namibia?

Namibia is a peaceful country, relatively safe to travel to and it is not involved in any wars. After the Angolan civil war in 2002, there is no more violence in Namibia. It does, however, have a relatively high crime rate with muggings near ATMs, pickpockets roaming around and even robberies happening more and more.

How do you buy a house if you have no money in Namibia?

There are currently two types of government-sponsored loans that allow you to buy a home without a down payment: USDA loans and VA loans. Each loan has a very specific set of criteria you need to meet in order to qualify for a zero-down mortgage.

What happens if I sell my house and don’t buy another in Namibia?

When you sell a personal residence and buy another one, the IRS will not let you do a 1031 exchange. You can, however, exclude a large portion of the gain from your taxes as that you have lived in for two of the past five years in the property and used it as your primary residence.

Where should I live in Namibia?

• Windhoek. The capital city of Namibia, Windhoek, is one of Africa’s cleanest and safest cities. …
• Swakopmund. Swakopmund is a very popular Namibian seaside resort with a pleasant summer temperature. …
• Walvis Bay.

Is Namibia safer than South Africa?

Namibia is safer than South Africa (roads, crime, etc), but I say that with caution as you should use your head in any country. Windhoek is generally friendly, but obviously don’t flash your touristness about.

What should you not do before buying a house in Namibia?

• Change jobs. Mortgage lenders look for stability when they assess your loan application, and part of that involves having the same job for a period of time.
• Take on new debt.
• Miss bills.
• Loan money.
• Cosign a loan.

How long can you stay in Namibia in Namibia?

Tourists can stay for a maximum of 90 days in Namibia if they can produce a return ticket and their passport is valid for at least another 6 months. The visa is issued at arrival. Make sure right then that enough days for your stay have been granted.

Is there a lot of crime in Namibia?

Crime is a serious concern in Windhoek and other areas throughout Namibia. Robberies, muggings, and thefts occur frequently, especially in downtown shopping areas and wherever crowds of travelers are found. Incidents are less frequent during the day than they are after dark.

What are the qualities of good house in Namibia?

• The home should be airy and well-ventilated.
• The design of the interiors should be ergonomic.
• The material used in construction should be of good quality.
• The height of the ceilings should be between 10-12 feet.

Why is a home so special in Namibia?

Home provides security, control, belonging, identity, and privacy, among other things. “But most of all, it’s a place that provides us with a centering—a place from which we leave each morning and to which we return each evening.”

Does your home reflect your personality in Namibia?

The more time you spend in your home, the closer it reflects you. It is human nature to shape one’s surroundings, to form it to one’s taste and needs. Over the course of time, your apartment home will mirror your personality. Therefore, your apartment has a personality of its own.

Do I need a visa to go to Namibia?

All visitors travelling to Namibia for business purposes require a visa. Business travellers from countries that have a visa exemption agreement with Namibia are issued a business visa on arrival, free of charge. Other business travellers must arrange a visa in advance.

How dangerous is Windhoek?

Windhoek is not very safe; crime rates are high. The most significant concern is theft, hacking, and carjacking. Being in this city, you should be especially careful and always monitor your things. Beware of people who offer or ask for your help.

What is Namibia like to live in?

The way of life is generally laid back and peaceful, with relatively little in the way of nightclubs or late-night entertainment. Although Namibia is relatively safe, expats often choose to live in protected compounds, with the majority of foreigners residing in Windhoek, Namibia’s capital city.