Financial Preparation

• Determine your total investment budget (property + transaction costs + reserves)
• Establish a currency exchange strategy (MWK experiences volatility)
• Research historical USD/MWK exchange rates to identify trends
• Set up international wire transfer capabilities with your home bank
• Consider opening a Foreign Currency Denominated Account (FCDA) with a Malawian bank
• Evaluate tax implications in both Malawi and your home country
• Budget for higher cash reserves (15-20%) than in developed markets
• Prepare for primarily cash transactions, as mortgage financing is limited

Market Research

• Identify target cities based on investment goals (Lilongwe and Blantyre offer most liquidity)
• Research neighborhood security, infrastructure, and amenities
• Connect with Malawian diaspora groups for on-the-ground insights
• Review local real estate listings on Lamudi Malawi, Property Malawi, and Knight Frank
• Analyze rental yields in different neighborhoods and property categories
• Research utility reliability (water, electricity, internet) in target areas
• Identify ongoing and planned infrastructure projects that may affect property values
• Plan a preliminary market visit to evaluate areas firsthand

Professional Network Development

• Connect with legal practitioners specializing in real estate and foreign investment
• Identify reputable real estate agents with international client experience
• Research property management companies in your target market
• Establish contact with the Malawi Investment and Trade Centre (MITC)
• Connect with other foreign investors through expatriate forums and groups
• Find a reliable local accountant familiar with foreign investment tax issues
• Identify reputable construction contractors if considering development
• Build relationships with local architects familiar with international standards

Expert Tip: The dry season (May-October) is the optimal time for property viewing in Malawi, as roads are more accessible, construction quality issues are more visible, and you can better assess drainage concerns. Property negotiations often move faster in January-February (after holiday season) when sellers may be more motivated and before the heavy rain season peaks in March.

Regulatory Note: Malawi’s Companies Act of 2013 modernized the corporate framework, making company formation more straightforward. A private limited company requires only one director and one shareholder (which can be the same person). Companies must maintain a registered office in Malawi and file annual returns. For real estate investment companies, minimum capital requirements are relatively low ($1,000 for local companies), but higher capital demonstrates commitment to regulatory authorities and improves approval chances.

Banking Setup

• Bank Account Options:
  • Foreign Currency Denominated Account (FCDA): Maintains USD, EUR, GBP, or ZAR without conversion
  • Malawi Kwacha Account: Required for local transactions and tax payments
  • Corporate Accounts: Required for company structures with additional documentation
• Major Banks Serving Foreign Investors:
  • Standard Bank Malawi (strongest international network)
  • National Bank of Malawi (largest domestic bank)
  • First Capital Bank (formerly Barclays)
  • FDH Bank (growing presence in property financing)
• Typical Requirements:
  • Passport and visa/permit documentation
  • Proof of address (both home country and local)
  • Reference letter from existing bank
  • Tax identification number (TPIN)
  • Initial deposit ($100-500 depending on bank)
  • In-person appearance at the bank
  • For corporate accounts: company registration documents

Financing Options

Mortgage financing in Malawi is limited but gradually developing:

1. Cash Purchase (Most Common):
   • 80-90% of property transactions are cash-based
   • Simplifies and accelerates the acquisition process
   • Avoids high local interest rates (15-25%)
   • Preferred by sellers, often resulting in better pricing
2. Local Bank Mortgages for Foreigners:
   • Availability: Limited and selective, primarily with Standard Bank and National Bank
   • Loan-to-Value Ratio: 50-60% maximum for foreign buyers
   • Interest Rates: 16-25% for MWK denominated loans
   • Term Length: 5-15 years maximum
   • Requirements: Substantial local income or international income verified by local bank’s international partners
3. Developer Financing:
   • Available from some larger development projects
   • Typically requires 30-50% down payment
   • Terms range from 1-5 years
   • Higher interest rates than bank financing
   • Less formal qualification process
4. Home Country Financing:
   • Using equity from US/Canadian properties
   • Personal loans in home country
   • Investment portfolio borrowing
   • Often more cost-effective than local financing

Currency Management

The Malawian Kwacha (MWK) can experience significant volatility against major currencies:

• Exchange Rate Considerations:
  • USD/MWK fluctuations can significantly impact investment returns
  • Historical depreciation of MWK by 5-15% annually against USD
  • Periodic currency adjustments by central bank can cause sharp changes
  • Maintain awareness of currency control regulations that change periodically
• Currency Transfer Strategies:
  • Use established international banks for transfers (Standard Bank has strongest network)
  • Budget 1-2% for transfer fees and exchange rate spreads
  • Maintain documentation of all transfers for repatriation approval
  • Consider timing transfers during periods of relative Kwacha stability
• Income Repatriation:
  • No restrictions on repatriation of legitimate investment returns
  • Require approval from Reserve Bank of Malawi (generally straightforward with documentation)
  • Budget 5-10 business days for approval process
  • Tax clearance certificate required before repatriation

A prudent approach is to maintain dual currency accounts (USD and MWK), using the foreign currency account to hold reserves and the local currency account for operational expenses. This provides flexibility to time currency conversions based on exchange rate movements.

Property Search Resources

• Online Property Portals:
  • Lamudi Malawi – The largest property portal in the country
  • Property Malawi – Focused on premium properties
  • Nyumba24 – Growing local platform
  • Note: Online listings represent only 30-40% of available properties
• Real Estate Agents:
  • International firms: Knight Frank Malawi, Pam Golding Malawi
  • Local agencies: Michelo Gondwe Properties, Press Properties, Mpingwe Properties
  • Note: There is no MLS system; agents have exclusive listings
  • Agent fees typically 3-5% of property value (negotiable)
• Direct Networking:
  • Expatriate communities (Facebook groups, LinkedIn)
  • Business associations (Malawi Confederation of Chambers of Commerce)
  • Local professional networks (often yield off-market opportunities)
  • Embassy and consulate connections
• Development Projects:
  • New residential estates with international standards
  • Mixed-use developments in major urban centers
  • Retirement communities near Lake Malawi
  • Pre-construction opportunities with staged payment plans

Property Viewing Trip Planning

For overseas investors, an efficient property viewing trip is essential:

1. Pre-Trip Research:
   • Identify 8-12 potential properties before arrival
   • Schedule viewings at least 7-10 days in advance
   • Research neighborhoods through satellite imagery and forums
   • Arrange meetings with legal representatives and bank officials
   • Prepare for property visits with comfortable clothing and water
2. Trip Logistics:
   • Plan at least 7-10 days for property viewing and meetings
   • Stay in central locations (Lilongwe: City Centre; Blantyre: Mandala)
   • Arrange reliable transportation (car rental with driver recommended)
   • Schedule viewings based on geographic proximity
   • Allow time for unexpected delays (common in Malawi)
3. During Viewings:
   • Document everything with photos and videos
   • Check water pressure, electrical systems, and structural integrity
   • Visit properties at different times of day (security considerations)
   • Speak with neighbors about the area if possible
   • Assess road conditions, especially during rainy season
   • Evaluate distance to essential services (hospitals, schools, markets)
4. Consider hiring a local property consultant who can:
   • Provide unbiased advice independent of selling agents
   • Negotiate better terms with local knowledge
   • Identify property issues that may not be apparent
   • Continue the search process after you return home
   • Typical fees: $300-700 flat fee or 1-2% of purchase price

Property Evaluation Criteria

Assess potential investments using these key criteria:

• Location Factors:
  • Proximity to major roads and transportation
  • Neighborhood security reputation and gated communities
  • Distance to employment centers and commercial areas
  • Water supply reliability (critical in Malawi)
  • Electrical grid stability and backup power options
  • Flooding risk during rainy season
• Building Quality:
  • Construction materials (fired brick and concrete preferred)
  • Roof construction and drainage systems
  • Foundation quality and evidence of settling
  • Water storage systems and backup supplies
  • Electrical wiring quality and capacity
  • Termite prevention measures
• Rental Potential:
  • Rental demand from expatriate community or local professionals
  • Proximity to diplomatic missions, NGOs, or major employers
  • Security features valued by rental market
  • Modern amenities (reliable internet is particularly valuable)
  • Parking and outdoor space
  • Alignment with expatriate housing allowances
• Financial Considerations:
  • Price relative to comparable properties
  • Potential for capital appreciation based on area development
  • Maintenance costs and durability of systems
  • Property tax implications
  • Utility costs and efficiency
  • Currency risk exposure

Expert Tip: In Malawi, water and electricity reliability vary significantly between neighborhoods and even within them. Properties with sophisticated backup systems (water tanks, solar installations, generators) command premium rental rates but offer much better long-term returns through tenant satisfaction and retention. During property visits, check cell signal strength with your phone in different rooms, as internet reliability is a top concern for expatriate tenants and can significantly impact rental potential.

Legal Due Diligence

• ✓
  Title Verification: Conduct comprehensive search at the Lands Registry
• ✓
  Lease Status Check: Verify remaining years on leasehold and renewal terms
• ✓
  Boundary Verification: Conduct physical inspection with surveyor against deed plan
• ✓
  Encumbrance Check: Verify no liens, mortgages, or restrictions on the property
• ✓
  Ground Rent Status: Confirm all government ground rent payments are current
• ✓
  Transfer Consent: Verify eligibility for Ministry of Lands consent to transfer
• ✓
  Planning Permission: Confirm compliance with City Council zoning and approvals
• ✓
  Utility Connection Status: Verify legal water and electricity connections with no arrears

Physical Due Diligence

• ✓
  Structural Inspection: Engage qualified engineer to assess structural integrity
• ✓
  Water Systems: Test water pressure, storage capacity, and quality
• ✓
  Electrical Systems: Verify capacity, safety, and backup systems
• ✓
  Drainage and Flooding: Assess property during/after heavy rain if possible
• ✓
  Pest Inspection: Check for termite damage and prevention measures
• ✓
  Security Features: Evaluate perimeter security, gates, windows, and doors
• ✓
  Renovation Assessment: Identify necessary improvements and estimate costs
• ✓
  Environmental Hazards: Check for nearby pollution sources, industrial activities

Financial Due Diligence

• ✓
  Property Valuation: Commission independent valuation from certified valuer
• ✓
  Tax Assessment: Verify current property tax values and payment status
• ✓
  Rental Market Analysis: Research comparable rental values in the area
• ✓
  Operating Cost Estimation: Calculate utilities, security, maintenance expenses
• ✓
  Future Liability Assessment: Identify upcoming major repairs or replacements
• ✓
  Transaction Cost Calculation: Include all fees, taxes, and administrative costs
• ✓
  ROI Projection: Create realistic cash flow analysis with currency risk factors

Expert Tip: In Malawi, the rainy season (November to April) can reveal property issues that remain hidden during dry months. If purchasing during the dry season, speak with neighbors about the property’s drainage history and look for signs of water damage or mold. The quality of construction can vary dramatically in Malawi, so investing in thorough structural inspection by a qualified engineer (typically $200-400) is essential, even for newer properties. Pay particular attention to foundation quality, as soil movement during seasonal changes can cause significant damage to poorly constructed foundations.

Offer and Negotiation

1. Make an Offer: Written offer through real estate agent or legal representative
2. Negotiation: Price negotiations typically include 5-15% flexibility
3. Payment Structure: Agree on deposit amount and payment schedule
4. Letter of Intent: Sign non-binding agreement outlining terms

In Malawi, verbal negotiations are common initially, but all terms should be documented in writing. Unlike western markets, price negotiation often continues throughout the process. A 10-15% deposit is standard to secure the property while due diligence proceeds, though this is typically held in an attorney’s escrow account rather than given directly to the seller.

Legal Process

1. Engage Legal Representation: Retain a local attorney specializing in property law
2. Due Diligence Period:
   • Title search at Lands Registry
   • Verification of lease terms and conditions
   • Boundary confirmation with survey department
   • Confirmation of rates and utility payments
3. Sale Agreement Preparation:
   • Comprehensive terms and conditions
   • Contingencies based on due diligence findings
   • Payment schedule and completion timeframe
   • Responsibilities for transfer fees and taxes
4. Ministry Approvals:
   • Application for Ministry of Lands consent to transfer
   • Foreign investment approval if required
   • Local authority clearance certificates
5. Transfer Documentation:
   • Preparation of deed of transfer
   • Payment of stamp duty and transfer taxes
   • Execution of transfer documents by both parties
6. Completion:
   • Final payment transfer to seller
   • Handover of property and all keys
   • Transfer of utility accounts
7. Registration:
   • Submission of transfer documents to Lands Registry
   • Issuance of new lease document or title deed
   • Registration of new owner’s details

The legal process typically takes 2-4 months from offer acceptance to completion, though delays in government approvals can extend this timeframe. Foreign buyers should expect the process to take 30-50% longer than for local buyers due to additional verification requirements. Working with experienced legal counsel familiar with foreign investor transactions is essential for navigating potential bureaucratic challenges.

Transaction Costs

Budget for these typical transaction expenses:

• Stamp Duty: 1.5% of property value
• Legal Fees: 1.5-3% of property value for attorney services
• Registration Fees: 1.0% of property value (capped at approximately $700)
• Property Transfer Tax: 1.5% of property value
• Real Estate Agent Commission: 3-5% (typically paid by seller but can affect price)
• Valuation Fee: $300-600 for professional property valuation
• Survey Fee: $200-500 for boundary verification
• Title Search Fee: $50-150 for comprehensive search
• Foreign Currency Transfer Costs: 1-3% of transaction value

Total transaction costs for foreign investors typically range from 5-10% of the purchase price, not including currency exchange costs. These costs should be factored into your overall investment calculations. Additional costs may apply if establishing a company for the property purchase.

Expert Tip: The government consent process can be the most time-consuming part of a property transaction in Malawi. Having your legal representative initiate this process early, ideally concurrent with other due diligence activities, can significantly reduce delays. Consider a structured payment schedule with the final payment contingent on successful registration, as this provides leverage to ensure all required documentation is completed properly. For foreign buyers unable to remain in Malawi throughout the process, a properly executed Power of Attorney for your legal representative is essential and should be prepared before leaving the country.

Administrative Tasks

• ✓
  Utility Transfers: Register water, electricity, and waste collection accounts in your name
• ✓
  Property Rates Registration: Update details with city or district council for property tax
• ✓
  Insurance Arrangement: Secure comprehensive property insurance (limited options available)
• ✓
  Security Services: Arrange for security company monitoring or guards if necessary
• ✓
  Ground Rent Account: Establish payment mechanism for annual ground rent to government
• ✓
  Property Management: Engage management services for rental properties
• ✓
  Renovation/Maintenance Planning: Schedule immediate improvements or repairs

Regulatory Compliance

Ensure ongoing compliance with these key requirements:

• Annual Ground Rent:
  • Payment due to Ministry of Lands annually
  • Rates vary by location and property size
  • Non-payment can result in lease termination
  • Can be paid up to 5 years in advance
• Property Rates (Tax):
  • Payable to local council quarterly or annually
  • Based on property valuation (reassessed periodically)
  • Typically 0.5-2% of assessed value annually
  • Payment receipts should be retained for lease renewal
• Building Regulations:
  • Any structural modifications require council approval
  • Construction must comply with local building codes
  • Occupancy permits required for new constructions
  • Environmental compliance for certain developments
• Foreign Resident Requirements:
  • Maintain valid residence or business permits if applicable
  • Annual confirmation of foreign investment status
  • Tax registration and compliance
  • Currency control regulations for rental income repatriation

Non-compliance with regulatory requirements can result in penalties, difficulty selling the property in the future, or in extreme cases, termination of leasehold rights. A calendar system for tracking payment and renewal dates is strongly recommended.

Record Keeping

Maintain comprehensive records for legal and tax purposes:

• Property Documents:
  • Original lease/title documents (keep copies in home country)
  • Sale agreement and transfer documentation
  • Boundary survey and property plans
  • Building permits and approvals
  • Property valuation reports
• Financial Records:
  • All payment receipts related to purchase
  • Ground rent and property rate receipts
  • Utility payments and connection fees
  • Insurance policies and payments
  • Renovation and maintenance expenses
  • Currency transfer documentation
• Tax Documentation:
  • Property transfer tax receipts
  • Annual tax returns (Malawi and home country)
  • Rental income records
  • Capital improvements documentation
  • Depreciation schedules
• Tenant Information (if applicable):
  • Lease agreements
  • Tenant identification and references
  • Security deposit records
  • Inspection reports
  • Maintenance requests and resolutions

Malawian tax authorities require records to be kept for at least 7 years. Both physical and digital record-keeping systems are recommended, with secure backups stored outside Malawi for added security.

Expert Tip: Many foreign property owners in Malawi establish a local bank account specifically for property-related expenses, with automatic payments set up for predictable costs like ground rent and property rates. This approach ensures timely payments even during your absence and creates a clear financial record. For remote property management, several Malawian property management companies now offer digital reporting platforms with monthly photo documentation, expense tracking, and maintenance updates accessible online, providing peace of mind for overseas investors.

Malawi Tax Obligations

• Property Transfer Tax:
  • 1.5% of property value at time of purchase
  • Payable before registration of transfer
  • Based on either sale price or government valuation (whichever is higher)
  • No exemptions for foreign buyers
• Rental Income Tax:
  • Taxed at standard income tax rates (15-30% progressive scale)
  • Deductions allowed for property expenses, maintenance, management fees
  • Quarterly advance payment of taxes required
  • Annual tax return filing by 30th September
• Property Rates (Local Tax):
  • Paid to city or district councils
  • Based on assessed property value
  • Rates vary by location (0.5-2% of value annually)
  • Billed quarterly or annually
• Capital Gains Tax:
  • Applied at standard income tax rates on disposal
  • No special rate for property gains
  • Adjusted for inflation using official index
  • Foreign currency gains/losses considered in calculation
• Annual Ground Rent:
  • Technically not a tax but a lease payment to government
  • Based on property size and location
  • Must be paid to maintain leasehold rights
  • Subject to periodic reassessment and adjustment
• Value Added Tax (VAT):
  • 16.5% on commercial property rentals (if registered for VAT)
  • Residential rentals generally VAT exempt
  • VAT registration threshold: MWK 10 million (approx. $10,000) annual turnover
  • Quarterly VAT returns if registered

Home Country Tax Obligations

Malawi has tax treaties with several countries, but notably not with the United States or Canada. Without a tax treaty, careful planning is required to avoid double taxation. Typically, foreign tax credits in your home country will offset much of the double taxation risk, but the timing of tax payments and exchange rate fluctuations can create complications.

Tax Planning Strategies

• Corporate Ownership Structure: Using a Malawian company can potentially reduce overall tax burden
• Expense Documentation: Maintain meticulous records of all allowable property expenses
• Capital Improvement Tracking: Document all capital expenditures to reduce future capital gains
• Income Timing: Strategic timing of income recognition between tax years
• Currency Management: Plan currency conversions to minimize tax impacts from exchange rate fluctuations
• Ground Rent Prepayment: Prepaying up to 5 years can be cost-effective and administratively efficient
• Professional Assistance: Work with accountants familiar with both Malawian and home country taxation
• Periodic Property Revaluation: Official revaluations can minimize capital gains upon sale

Tax rules in Malawi have undergone significant reform in recent years, with further changes expected as the country modernizes its tax system. Regular consultations with tax professionals both in Malawi and your home country are essential to ensure continued compliance and optimal structuring.

Expert Tip: In Malawi, tax compliance history significantly impacts property transactions. Before selling a property, a tax clearance certificate is required, which will only be issued if all property taxes, ground rent, and income taxes related to the property are current. Maintaining an organized system for tax compliance throughout your ownership period will prevent delays when you eventually decide to sell. Additionally, working with a tax professional who can represent you before the Malawi Revenue Authority during your absence can be invaluable for foreign investors.

Selecting a Property Manager

Evaluate potential property managers using these criteria:

• Experience with Foreign Investors:
  • Track record working with overseas clients
  • Established communication protocols
  • Experience with international payments
  • Understanding of expatriate tenant requirements
• Local Market Knowledge:
  • Familiarity with your specific area
  • Connections with reliable service providers
  • Understanding of local rental market dynamics
  • Established tenant networks
• Professional Capabilities:
  • Proper licensing and registration
  • Insurance coverage
  • Clear contract terms
  • Transparent fee structure
  • Quality of reporting systems
• Technology Integration:
  • Online reporting capabilities
  • Digital payment systems
  • Property inspection documentation
  • Communication platforms
• Maintenance Network:
  • Reliable contractors for various services
  • Emergency response capabilities
  • Preventative maintenance protocols
  • Cost-effective solutions

Management Agreement Essentials

Ensure your property management contract includes these key elements:

• Clearly Defined Services: Detailed description of all included and excluded services
• Fee Structure: Transparent breakdown of all fees, commissions, and additional charges
• Performance Standards: Expected response times and service levels
• Reporting Requirements: Frequency, format, and content of financial and property reports
• Maintenance Authorization: Spending limits that require owner approval
• Tenant Selection Criteria: Standards for tenant screening and approval
• Term and Termination: Contract duration and notice requirements for ending the agreement
• Banking Procedures: Handling of security deposits and rental income
• Property Inspection Protocols: Frequency and documentation of inspections
• Emergency Procedures: Protocols for handling urgent situations
• Communication Expectations: Methods and frequency of updates
• Insurance Requirements: Manager’s liability coverage and property insurance coordination

In Malawi, verbal agreements are common in business but should be avoided for property management. A comprehensive written contract is essential, particularly for foreign investors who cannot be physically present to oversee operations.

Expert Tip: In Malawi, the quality of property management can vary dramatically. Before selecting a management company, ask for references specifically from other foreign investors and conduct video calls with these references if possible. Request sample reports and documentation to evaluate their systems. For higher-value properties or those targeting expatriate tenants, consider companies with international connections or training, as they typically better understand the expectations of foreign owners and tenants. The most successful foreign property investors in Malawi often establish relationships with multiple service providers rather than relying exclusively on one company, creating helpful redundancy in case of service issues.

Exit Options

Sale Process

When selling your Malawian property:

1. Pre-Sale Preparation:
   • Property maintenance and cosmetic improvements
   • Professional photography and marketing materials
   • Title and documentation verification
   • Tax clearance certificate application
   • Property valuation by registered valuer
2. Marketing Strategy:
   • Engage multiple agents for wider exposure
   • Online listings on international and local platforms
   • Target marketing to expatriate communities
   • Networking through business and diplomatic channels
   • Realistic pricing based on current market conditions
3. Legal Preparation:
   • Ensure all property taxes and ground rent are current
   • Prepare disclosure documents
   • Address any boundary or title issues proactively
   • Draft sale agreement template
   • Arrange power of attorney if selling remotely
4. Negotiation Process:
   • Be prepared for extended negotiation timelines
   • Consider currency specifications in the agreement
   • Define clear terms for deposit and payment structure
   • Include detailed inventory for furnished properties
   • Clarify responsibility for transfer costs and taxes
5. Transaction Completion:
   • Coordinate with legal representatives for transfer documentation
   • Apply for Ministry of Lands consent to transfer
   • Arrange for tax clearance certificates
   • Coordinate utility transfers and final readings
   • Provide all property documents and information to new owner
6. Fund Repatriation:
   • Work with local bank for currency conversion
   • Prepare documentation for Reserve Bank approval
   • Consider timing of conversion for favorable rates
   • Retain evidence of original investment for repatriation approval
   • Plan for tax implications in both Malawi and home country

The selling process in Malawi typically takes 6-12 months from listing to completion, with luxury properties or those in less liquid markets potentially taking longer. Working with experienced legal representatives and international real estate agents can significantly improve both timeframe and results.

Market Exit Timing Considerations

Several factors should influence your exit timing decision:

• Economic Cycle Awareness: Malawi’s property market follows longer cycles than developed markets, typically 7-10 years between significant appreciation phases
• Currency Valuation: The Malawian Kwacha experiences periods of stability and devaluation; exiting during relative stability maximizes USD/CAD returns
• Local Development Progress: Infrastructure improvements, nearby commercial developments, and urban expansion can significantly impact property values
• Political Calendar: Election cycles can create temporary market uncertainty; transactions typically slow 3-6 months before major elections
• Regional Market Variations: Different cities and regions experience growth phases at different times; monitor local market indicators
• Seasonal Factors: The dry season (May-October) typically sees higher market activity and better property presentation conditions
• Tax Implications: Coordinate exit with tax planning in both Malawi and home country
• Lease Renewal Timing: For leasehold properties, values tend to decrease as remaining lease term shortens; consider timing relative to renewal points

Successful investors establish clear performance benchmarks and reevaluate their Malawian property investments every 2-3 years against both local conditions and global portfolio considerations. Having a predefined exit strategy with trigger points for various scenarios provides clarity when opportunities or challenges arise.

Expert Tip: The most successful foreign investors in Malawi often maintain relationships with potential buyers throughout their ownership period. This includes networking with diplomatic missions, international organizations, and multinational corporations that regularly bring expatriate staff to Malawi. When the time comes to sell, these connections can provide direct buyer opportunities, reducing dependency on the general market. Additionally, as Malawi’s property market becomes increasingly digital, investing in high-quality virtual tours and detailed digital documentation of property improvements can significantly enhance marketability to international buyers who may begin their search remotely.