Buying resale property in Mauritius: benefits, costs and key considerations in 2026
Originally published on 14 August 2023 — Updated in November 2026
Buying a resale villa or apartment in Mauritius offers several advantages for foreign buyers. Unlike purchasing off-plan, you can visit an existing property, assess its surroundings and, in some cases, move in much sooner.
Resale properties also provide opportunities to buy in established residential developments, sometimes in sought-after locations where new properties are limited.
However, buying resale property in Mauritius requires careful consideration, particularly regarding the property's condition, maintenance fees, foreign ownership regulations and acquisition costs.
Here are the key points to consider before making your purchase.
Why buy a resale property in Mauritius?
View the property before buying
One of the main advantages of buying a resale property is being able to see exactly what you are purchasing.
You can assess the layout, natural light, finishes, condition of the equipment and immediate surroundings.
For buyers planning to relocate to Mauritius, this is also an opportunity to evaluate proximity to shops, schools, beaches and everyday amenities.
Negotiate the purchase price
When purchasing a resale property, the asking price may be negotiable.
The scope for negotiation depends on the property's condition, location, potential renovation costs and position within the local market.
Comparing similar properties is essential to determine whether the asking price represents fair market value.
Buy in an established residential development
Resale villas and apartments are often located in completed residential developments with existing facilities, landscaped gardens and established communities.
This allows buyers to assess the quality of maintenance, how the development is managed and the overall residential environment.
It can be particularly valuable for those looking for a permanent home or holiday residence in Mauritius.
Can foreigners buy resale property in Mauritius?
Not all properties in Mauritius are directly available for purchase by foreign nationals.
Non-citizens can purchase eligible resale properties within approved developments, including the Integrated Resort Scheme (IRS), Real Estate Scheme (RES), Property Development Scheme (PDS) and certain Smart City developments, subject to the applicable conditions.
Other opportunities exist, including qualifying apartments under the Ground + 2 (G+2) framework.
Before submitting an offer, it is essential to confirm that the property is eligible for foreign ownership and identify any approvals required.
Can buying a resale property qualify you for a residence permit?
Purchasing an eligible residential property within an approved development may allow foreign buyers to obtain a residence permit in Mauritius.
The qualifying investment threshold is generally USD 375,000, subject to the conditions of the relevant property scheme.
However, the right to purchase property and eligibility for a residence permit are not automatically the same. Both should be verified before proceeding.
What should you check before buying a resale property?
The property's overall condition
Even a well-maintained villa or apartment may have issues that are not immediately visible during a viewing.
Depending on the property, a professional inspection may be advisable to assess the roof, signs of damp, plumbing, electrical installations, air-conditioning systems and swimming pool equipment.
Mauritius has a tropical climate, and humidity and salt air in coastal areas can accelerate wear on certain materials.
Identifying potential repairs early helps you estimate future costs and factor them into price negotiations.
Service charges and property management
When purchasing a villa or apartment within a residential development, service charges should be carefully reviewed.
These may cover security, landscaping, swimming pools, communal facilities and general maintenance.
Before committing, it is advisable to request recent management budgets, meeting minutes and details of any planned major works.
You should also establish whether there are outstanding service charges or exceptional expenses associated with the property or development.
Legal documents and rental restrictions
Your notary should verify the title deed, any existing mortgages, easements and other legal restrictions.
The development's management rules should also be reviewed, particularly if you intend to renovate or rent out the property.
Short-term holiday rentals are not automatically permitted in every residential development. The applicable rules depend on the property scheme, management regulations and relevant authorisations.
What are the costs of buying resale property in Mauritius in 2026?
In addition to the purchase price, buyers should budget for several acquisition costs.
Cost | Indicative amount |
Registration duty payable by the buyer | 5% under the applicable general regime |
Notary fees | Approximately 1.15% |
Buyer's agency commission | 2.3% including VAT, where applicable |
Other expenses | Depending on the transaction: approvals, bank fees, inspections, etc. |
These figures are indicative. The applicable taxes and fees should be confirmed by your notary, taking into account the property scheme and the buyer's circumstances.
Buyers should also budget for any renovation, furnishing and ongoing property maintenance costs.
What are the steps involved in buying a resale property in Mauritius?
The purchase process generally involves five main stages:
Property selection and viewings: Identify suitable villas or apartments based on your budget, lifestyle and objectives.
Offer to purchase: Negotiate the purchase price and agree on the main terms of the transaction.
Preliminary agreement: Formalise the parties' commitments, including any applicable conditions precedent.
Legal checks and approvals: Allow the notary to complete the necessary due diligence and obtain any authorisations required for foreign buyers.
Final deed of sale and handover: Complete the transaction and arrange possession of the property in accordance with the agreed terms.
The timeframe varies from one transaction to another, particularly when administrative approval or bank financing is required.
Resale property or off-plan purchase in Mauritius: which is better?
The right choice depends on your property objectives.
Buying a resale property allows you to inspect an existing home, evaluate its surroundings and potentially take possession sooner.
Buying off-plan, also known as VEFA (vente en l'état futur d'achèvement), allows you to purchase a newly built property, usually with staged payments during construction and sometimes opportunities for personalisation.
However, resale properties may require renovation, while off-plan purchases involve waiting for construction to be completed.
Neither option is automatically better. Your budget, timeframe and intended use of the property should guide your decision.
Looking for a resale villa or apartment in Mauritius?
Based in Mauritius and with over twenty years of real estate experience across the Indian Ocean, I assist international buyers in finding villas, apartments and luxury properties suited to their requirements.
My role is to help you identify properties that genuinely match your expectations, assess their market positioning and anticipate important considerations before purchasing.
From selecting properties and organising viewings to negotiating and coordinating with notaries and other professionals, I provide personalised assistance throughout your property search and acquisition.
Explore my selection of resale properties in Mauritius and new property developments available to foreign buyers, or contact me to discuss your requirements.
Email: scolas@sandracolas.com
Phone / WhatsApp: +230 5474 0302
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