Preparing your return to Morocco: housing, timetable and budget
A return to Morocco is prepared a year ahead. The timetable, the key choices and the traps to avoid for a good home from day one.
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Returning to Morocco after years abroad is a life project, and housing is at its heart: it shapes commutes, children’s schooling and the budget. Twelve months of preparation let you arrive with peace of mind. The purchase framework is described in the guide to buying property in Morocco from abroad.
Rent first or buy straight away?
| Option | For whom | Advantages | Limits |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rent for a few months | Those unsure about the area | Test daily life, avoid a mistake | Possible double rent, moving twice |
| Buy before returning | Those who know the city well | Home ready on arrival | Choice made remotely |
| Buy off-plan | Those with time ahead | Delivery timed for the return | Risk of delay |
The 12-month timetable
| When | What to do |
|---|---|
| M-12 | Choose the city and areas, set the budget |
| M-10 | Open an account in Morocco, get an agreement in principle |
| M-8 | Shortlist and viewings (during a stay or remotely) |
| M-6 | Sale agreement or reservation, mortgage |
| M-3 | Deed, works or equipment |
| M-1 | Water, electricity and internet contracts; school enrolment |
| M0 | Move |
Choosing the city and area
Start from work and schools. The big cities offer jobs and international schools; other cities offer a gentler setting and lower prices. See which city to buy in Morocco and the family guides, for example family life in Casablanca.
Financing the project
If you borrow before returning, the bank bases itself on your income abroad; after returning, on your income in Morocco. Anticipate this change: it is often easier to get the loan while your situation is stable. See mortgages for Moroccans abroad. For a first new home, Daam Sakane aid is open to Moroccans abroad.
Formalities not to forget
- Transferring funds by the rules; see transferring funds.
- Change of tax residence: inform your country’s administration and ask about the consequences.
- Moving personal belongings: ask about the customs rules that apply when returning.
Example settling-in budget
| Item | To plan |
|---|---|
| Housing (purchase or rent) | Depending on city and area |
| Purchase costs | Around 6 to 7.5% of the price for a new build |
| Equipment (kitchen, air conditioning, furniture) | Depending on the level wanted |
| Moving | Transport, formalities |
| Schooling | Enrolment and tuition fees |
| Safety reserve | Several months of spending |
Area criteria for a returning family
- A school suited to the curriculum followed abroad
- Commuting time to work
- Shops, healthcare, leisure
- A secure residence if you travel often
See also moving into a new apartment and the 12 steps of buying property.
FAQ
Should I sell my home abroad before returning?
It depends on your project; keeping it to let can add to your income, but needs remote management.
Is a mortgage easier before or after returning?
Often before, while your income abroad is stable and documented.
Which city for children schooled abroad?
The one with a suitable school (curriculum, language): it is often what decides the area.
Should I buy in my home town?
Not necessarily: work, schools and the lifestyle you want often matter more than attachment to a city.
Official sources
The rules and amounts quoted come from these official texts and websites. They change with finance laws: check the version in force before deciding.
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