ABOUT MOROCCO

The country's close association with France (it was ruled by the French from 1912 to 1956) means that it has long been popular with French buyers. As yet though, British buyers are still to discover Morocco's charms in any great numbers. However, this is changing as increasingly professional practices are being to appear and instil a greater confidence in the buying process.

Morocco is a country of contrasts with green plains that often surprise the first time visitor, meeting impressive mountain ranges with the highest points reaching some 4000 meters in the high Atlas. Living medieval cities such as Marrakech or Fez are amongst the most fascinating in the world and of course the vast expanses of the Sahara desert are just part of what makes Morocco special.

Morocco has more to offer than most people realize, its proximity to Europe and easy connections make it only a stones throw from southern Spain; and with a very moderate climate, in the North the average winter temperature is around 18ºC, it is easy to see why the inhabitants of the Costa del Sol have been coming here for years. Well the secret is now out, Morocco is no longer an exotic playground only for the jet set or a trekker's paradise for the hardy traveler, Morocco is finally taking its just place in the tourism spotlight.

Morocco has long been attracting travelers looking for that intriguing blend of peace and tranquility and exotic adventure; and with over 3500 km of coastline speckled with beautiful beaches, stunning mountain ranges and the hustle and bustle of the souk or the labyrinth like medina's, its easy to see why.

Since King Mohammed VI assumed power in 1999 Morocco has adopted a liberal and reformist line, the country now welcomes foreign investment and this has started a trend of Spanish developers constructing holiday villages and low density condominium similar to what is the already well established concept of residential tourism on the Costa del Sol. Government incentives to UK buyers include:

• 20% before 8 years
• After 8 years reduces to 0%
• 0% inheritance tax when a property passes to a family member
• 100% repatriation of funds when you sell

With the financial climate being as it is Morocco is a logical choice for a holiday home, its beautiful, its exotic but easily reachable, its not on the other side of the world, the food is fantastic, the people are incredibly friendly and above all its cheap!

Property is of high quality and the price tag is guaranteed to make you smile, similarly the lifestyle is great and the price won't hurt your wallet.

The capital city is Rabat. Other major cities are Marrakesh and Fes and the ports of Casablanca and Tangier.

Marrakech is the number one focus for many buyers, with traditional Riads (houses built around a central courtyard with a fountain) being particularly popular. Whilst Marrakech is home to many attractions including the nation's best golf courses and hotels, and having the Atlas Mountains on its doorstep.

Already luxury developments in the most sought after areas are changing hands for large amounts of money. Good value properties can still be found, but Morocco's popularity as the most exotic short- haul destination available to Western Europeans is starting to have an impact of property prices as well as the tourist industry.

PEOPLE

The people of Morocco have a rich diversity and unique cultural blended from Arab, Berber, European and African influences.

Moroccans are some of the most generous hospitable people in the world. It's not uncommon to get invited to dinner upon meeting and chatting with a Moroccan for only ten minutes and if you are honored with such an opportunity you will be treated to an experience you will never forget.

Typical Moroccan meals for guests are two to three courses that extend over several hours of lively conversation. Mint Tea is an integral part of Moroccan hospitality and daily life that you are almost sure to experience.

The official language is Arabic and various Berber dialects are spoken. French is widely spoken in business, government and academic circles and Spanish is also spoken in the north.

English is also widely used in hotels, restaurants and cafes where there are a larger number of tourists.

About Morocco

Buying Property in Morocco

Taxes and Costs of Buying Property in Morocco

Information on Morocco

» Moroccan Property Portfolio