Who can buy a house in Brunei?

Citizens can generally purchase freehold houses and land, subject to standard conveyancing and restrictions.

Stateless permanent residents (PRs). Current rules allow limited ownership (commonly one residential property) under defined conditions. Confirm latest criteria with the Land Department or a qualified lawyer.

Foreign nationals. Direct freehold ownership is typically not permitted. Alternatives include long-term leasehold or strata arrangements with approval. Always seek legal advice.

Can foreigners buy a house in Brunei? Generally no freehold landed ownership; limited leasehold or strata options may be possible with approval.

Freehold vs leasehold: what’s the difference?

Is freehold better than leasehold? Freehold is indefinite; leasehold can work if priced correctly with clear terms.

Step-by-step: how the buying process works

1. Budget & eligibility — Use a home loan calculator, plan a 10–20% down payment, confirm eligibility.
2. Search & shortlist — Browse listings, weigh location, schools, and build quality.
3. Viewings & due diligence — Inspect daylight; look for leaks, wiring issues; consider survey/valuation.
4. Offer & acceptance — Submit written offer, negotiate, agree terms.
5. Lawyer & title checks — Verify title, encumbrances, prepare/review SPA.
6. Loan approval — Apply, provide documents, valuation, SPA draft; compare banks.
7. Sign SPA & pay deposit — After checks and loan, sign SPA, set completion date.
8. Stamping & completion — Pay stamp duty, register, complete, collect keys.

How to buy a house in Brunei? Confirm eligibility, shortlist, verify title, secure loan, sign and complete.

Typical costs and fees

How much are buying fees? Budget several percent of the property price.

Financing: loans, rates, and calculators

Most buyers use bank home loans or Islamic financing. Repayment terms up to 25 years. Compare full-term costs, not just headline rates.

Using a loan calculator

Example: BND 200,000 at 4.5% for 20 years ≈ BND 1,200–1,300/month. Adjust tenure or down payment.

Loan approval tips

• Keep debt-service ratio in range.
• Prepare payslips, ID, employment letter, bank statements.
• Compare at least two banks.
• Ask about early-settlement & takaful.

How do I choose a bank? Compare total cost, service, processing speed, fees and early-settlement terms.

Document checklist

• IC/passport
• Payslips, employment letter
• 3–6 months bank statements
• Offer letter & draft SPA
• Title search
• Valuation report
• Proof of down payment
• Any approvals if required

How long does it take?

Usually 6–12 weeks. Complex cases may take longer.

• Viewings/offer: 1–3 weeks
• Loan processing: 2–4 weeks
• Legal checks & completion: 2–4 weeks

Fastest timeline? Cash with clean title can close faster.

Local tips to avoid mistakes

• Check flood/drainage history.
• Prioritize structure over cosmetics.
• Check wiring & breaker load.
• Price should reflect lease years.
• Always hire a lawyer.
• Consider resale value.
• Budget realistically.

FAQs

• Can foreigners buy landed houses?

Generally no freehold ownership; leasehold/strata may be possible with approval.

• Is freehold better than leasehold?

Freehold is indefinite. Leasehold is valid if priced correctly with clear terms.

• How much cash is needed upfront?

Usually 10–20% down payment plus legal, stamp, valuation and bank fees.

• Do I need an agent?

Agents save time and risk. Direct buyers must handle all checks and paperwork.

• How do I calculate repayments?

Use a calculator with price, down payment, rate and tenure.