Introduction
Buying property in Syria while living abroad is entirely possible — thousands of diaspora Syrians do it every year. But it requires careful planning, the right legal structure, and a trustworthy local agent. This guide walks you through every step.
Step 1: Define Your Budget in USD
All serious real estate transactions in Syria are priced and settled in US dollars. Syrian pounds are rarely used for property sales due to currency instability. Budget not just the purchase price but also: notary fees (typically 1–2% of property value), agent commission (1–3%), and transfer taxes where applicable.
Step 2: Choose Your City and Neighbourhood
Damascus offers the most liquid market and the widest choice of verified listings. Latakia and Tartus are ideal for coastal holiday homes. Aleppo offers the best value-for-money if you are comfortable with a longer-term investment horizon. Research specific neighbourhoods — not just cities — as prices can vary by 40–60% within the same city.
Step 3: Find a Verified Agent
This is the most important decision you will make. Use only agents who can provide: proof of identity, references from past clients, and a trackable transaction history. Darna's verified agent programme screens all listed agents before they can accept enquiries.
Step 4: Set Up a Power of Attorney (Tawkeel)
If you cannot travel to Syria for the purchase, you will need a Power of Attorney (توكيل — Tawkeel) authorising a trusted person in Syria to sign on your behalf. This document must be: notarised at a Syrian consulate in your country of residence, translated into Arabic by a certified translator, and apostilled if required by Syrian authorities. Your agent or lawyer in Syria will tell you exactly what format is accepted.
Step 5: Transfer the Funds
International wire transfers directly to Syria remain restricted due to banking sanctions. Common methods used by diaspora buyers include: trusted intermediary networks (hawala-adjacent services), transfers through Lebanese or Turkish banking contacts, or direct cash brought on visits. Always document the transfer carefully for your own legal protection.
Step 6: Due Diligence on the Property
Before signing anything, verify: the title deed (صك الملكية) is genuine and unencumbered, there are no outstanding mortgages or liens, the seller is the legal owner (or has authority to sell), and the property has no legal disputes attached to it. Your lawyer in Syria can run these checks at the Real Estate Registry (دائرة التسجيل العقاري).
Step 7: Sign the Contract and Register
The sale agreement is signed before a notary (كاتب العدل). After signing, the transfer must be registered at the Real Estate Registry — this is what makes the transaction legally complete. Allow 2–6 weeks for full registration.
Key Tips
- Never send money before seeing a verified title deed
- Always use a lawyer independent of your agent
- Video-call walkthroughs are standard for remote buyers
- Keep copies of all documents in your country of residence