What you need to know about buying property in The Gambia

The Gambia is fast becoming a property buyer's dream. More and more people are moving to this tropical paradise, just five hours away from the UK. There is plenty of property for sale in Gambia, from apartments to houses and luxurious villas. Whether you want to retire, buy a holiday home, make an investment or set up a new business, The Gambia offers fantastic real estate opportunities.

However, before looking at Gambia properties for sale, it is vital that you do your research. Here are some tips to get you started:

Gambian property laws

In many ways these are similar to the British system, which is good news for those buying and selling properties in Gambia. Land is registered at the Property Registry, which you can check to confirm whether the seller owns the property. However, some land is not yet registered, and, most importantly, the terms 'freehold' and 'leasehold' are not the same as in Europe. You should therefore make sure that you instruct a reputable firm to make the right checks and give you the right advice.

Property conveyancing: The Gambian conveyancing process is also very similar to the British conveyancing process. A contract is drawn up by the respective lawyers, and a deposit paid to the seller. The completion period is usually 30 days, and upon payment of the full purchase price a deed of conveyance is issued to the purchaser.

Taxes and other costs: As with the British system, you will have to pay various taxes and associated costs. These can include stamp duty, land rent and lawyer's fees. Make sure you get this information before making a decision to buy. You should also get buildings insurance which is readily available.

Utilities in The Gambia: The electricity and water supply in The Gambia is generally good, but, when looking at properties, make sure you check that there is a reliable supply, preferably with a backup generator. You should also look into mobile access, internet supply and satellite TV.

Where to start: When looking for property for sale in Gambia, it can be hard to know where to start. There are plenty of good estate agents who can help you make the right choice. A good place to start is TAF Gambian Property, one of Gambia's leading estate agents. Find out more at www.tafgambianproperty.com.