Choosing a Real Estate Agency in Dakar

Renting or buying property in Dakar often goes through an agency, but not all of them operate with the same level of seriousness. A clear mandate, properly organised viewings, a written lease: here is what a good agency should do, and the warning signs worth watching for before signing anything.

What a serious agency should do

A serious real estate agency presents a clear mandate for the property, organises actual viewings rather than relying on photos sent by message, and explains precisely its role between the owner and the tenant or buyer. It should also be able to show that it genuinely represents the property owner, rather than relaying a listing picked up elsewhere without verification. Asking directly, and requesting a document to back it up, is a basic habit before any viewing.

Agency fees and deposits, in general terms

Agency fees and the deposit amount requested vary by property, neighbourhood and each agency's own practice, with no single rule covering every situation. It is worth asking for a written breakdown of these fees before committing, understanding exactly what they cover and when they are due. For any precise question about lease or deposit regulations, the relevant official services and a legal professional remain the most reliable sources.

Viewings, mandate and negotiation

A viewing organised by a serious agency runs with a clearly identified contact person who answers questions about the property's condition, charges and lease terms. The mandate, the document authorising the agency to act on the owner's behalf, is worth requesting before committing further, along with full clarity on who actually negotiates the final price.

Written lease and inventory, essential steps

A written lease detailing duration, rent, charges and termination conditions protects both parties and should always accompany a serious rental. An inventory of fixtures, done at move in and compared at move out, avoids disputes over the deposit at the end of the contract. Refusing to sign without these documents, even under pressure from a rare or highly sought after property, remains the best protection for a tenant.

Warning signs not to ignore

An agency that refuses to show a mandate, that asks for a large payment before any actual viewing, or that offers a property noticeably cheaper than the market with no clear explanation, deserves extra caution. Likewise, the total absence of a written lease or a refusal to carry out a detailed inventory should raise concern, whatever the agency's apparent seriousness otherwise.

Recommended addresses on SeneFinder

• AFD IMMOBILIER: Dakar, a real estate agency.
• 3H Immobilier: Plateau, a real estate agency.
• Immo Deals: Dakar, a real estate agency.
• Focus Immobilier: Plateau, a real estate agency.
• Agence immobilière de luxe - FAIMMO: Plateau, a real estate agency.
• TAISSIR IMMOBILIER ET SERVICES SUARL: Dakar, a real estate agency.

To compare more agencies, see all addresses in this category or explore the Dakar directory.

Useful tools

The practical guide gathers useful information on daily life in Dakar, and recommend an address lets you flag a trustworthy agency to the SeneFinder community. The article on rental scams in Dakar complements this guide, as does the one on real estate agencies in Dakar.

Frequently asked questions

How can I check that an agency really represents the owner?

Ask for a written mandate authorising the agency to act on the owner's behalf, and raise the question directly before any viewing.

Is a written lease essential for a rental?

Yes, a written lease detailing rent, charges and terms protects both parties; for any precise question about regulations, a legal professional remains the best source.

What warning signs should make me cautious with an agency?

A refusal to show the mandate, a large payment demanded before any actual viewing, or the absence of a written lease and a detailed inventory should all prompt extra caution.