The cost of buying property in Cambodia: taxes & fees
Buying property in Cambodia can be an exciting prospect, but it's important to be aware of the associated costs and taxes involved in the process.
This guide outlines one-off costs, recurring expenses, and provides a worked example to help you budget effectively for your property purchase.
One-off Purchase Costs
When purchasing property in Cambodia, you should be prepared for several one-off costs that will be added to the initial property price.
These typically include transfer tax, notary fees, registration, and legal fees, which can vary depending on the property's location and value.
- Transfer tax: Generally around 4% of the property price
- Notary fees: Approximately 1-2% of the purchase price
- Registration fees: Varies by province, typically a small amount
- Legal fees: Depending on the lawyer, usually a few hundred dollars to around 1% of the price
Estimated Total Percentage for Purchase Costs
In total, buyers should budget around 7-10% of the property price for one-off costs. It's advisable to consult local sources to confirm current rates.
Keep in mind that this range can vary based on individual circumstances and property specifics.
Worked Example
For a property priced at $100,000, here’s a rough breakdown of the costs:
- Transfer tax: $4,000
- Notary fees: $1,000 (1%)
- Registration: $100
- Legal fees: $800 (0.8%)
Total one-off costs: $5,900 – Total cost would be approximately $105,900 for the initial purchase.
Recurring Costs of Ownership
Once you own property in Cambodia, you will face several recurring costs including annual property tax, community fees, utilities, and insurance.
These costs can vary significantly based on the property type and location, but it's wise to set aside a budget for them.
- Annual property tax: Usually between 0.1-0.3% of the property's value
- Community/condo fees: Variable based on the property and amenities available
- Utilities: Depends on usage; budget for water, electricity, and internet
- Insurance: Varies; covering basic property risks is advisable
Mortgage Costs for Non-Residents
Non-residents can obtain mortgages in Cambodia, though options may be more limited compared to residents.
Mortgage rates and terms can vary significantly, and it's recommended to work with a local financial institution to understand your options.
Frequently asked questions
What is the typical transfer tax for buying property in Cambodia?
Transfer tax is generally around 4% of the property's sale price. However, it's advisable to confirm with local sources.
Are legal fees included in the purchasing process?
Legal fees are not typically included in the property price and can range from a few hundred to 1% of the purchase price depending on the lawyer.
What recurring costs should I expect after purchasing property?
Expect costs such as annual property tax (0.1-0.3% of the property's value), community fees, utilities, and insurance.
Can non-residents get a mortgage in Cambodia?
Yes, non-residents can obtain mortgages in Cambodia, but options may be limited and it's advisable to check with local banks.
This guide is general information, not legal, tax or immigration advice. Rules change — verify the current position with official sources and a qualified professional before acting. Last reviewed September 2026.