Homes & Property

Most expats who come to Malaysia for a limited-term work assignment choose to rent, while those planning to stay longer may consider buying a home. Property prices can be attractive compared with many major international cities, but foreign buyers need to understand the rules and restrictions that apply.

This section explains the main considerations for renting and buying property in Malaysia, including the advantages and disadvantages of renting versus buying, foreign ownership restrictions and minimum property purchase prices. These rules can vary according to the state, type of property and, in some cases, the buyer’s residency programme.

For renters, we look at typical tenancy practices, rental deposits, tenancy agreements, dealing with property agents, negotiating rents and the practical points to check before signing a lease. We also highlight some of the areas most popular with expats in Kuala Lumpur and other parts of Malaysia.

For those considering buying, our guides explain the purchasing process, legal and financing considerations, property agents, foreign ownership rules and the costs associated with owning property. We also examine Malaysia’s rental market and typical rental yields for owners thinking of letting out their property.

There is a separate consideration for participants in the Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) programme. Under the current federal MM2H programme, purchasing a residential property is compulsory after approval, with minimum purchase values depending on the MM2H category. Our guides explain how these requirements interact with the wider rules governing property ownership by foreigners.

Whether you are looking for a condominium to rent for a year, a long-term home in Malaysia or an investment property, the articles in this section provide a practical starting point for understanding the Malaysian property market.