As of August, 2025, 1.1% of Cameroon’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) came from remittances abroad. Cameroonians living outside the country...
As of August, 2025, 1.1% of Cameroon’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) came from remittances abroad. Cameroonians living outside the country invested $63 million USD, which equals over 300 billion CFA francs, back home. A significant portion of this investment goes into real estate, and in this article, we’ll explore three major reasons why.
What Is Real Estate?
Real estate includes lands and everything built on them. In Cameroon, it remains one of the most profitable investment avenues, attracting both locals and Cameroonians abroad.
Why Cameroonians in the Diaspora are Investing Massively In Real Estate
1. To Provide a Safe Home for Themselves and Their Families
Many Cameroonians abroad want to return home and live in their own homes, rather than renting or staying with relatives.
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They purchase plots in strategically located, fast-developing areas through genuine real estate companies.
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Construction is often monitored virtually with photos and videos.
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Even if they do not live in the property immediately, family members can occupy it temporarily.
This ensures comfort and security upon returning to Cameroon, and guarantees that their investment serves a personal purpose.
2. To Secure the Future of Their Children or Loved Ones
Real estate is also a long-term investment for the future.
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Example: A mother bought a plot of land for 5 million CFA when her daughter was in Form Four. Four years later, she sold it for 11.2 million CFA, using the profit to send her daughter abroad for studies.
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By investing in property early, Cameroonians abroad can build wealth and create opportunities for their children or loved ones.
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Land values in fast-growing cities like Buoya increase rapidly, making property an effective way to protect and grow wealth.
3. As a Source of Income: Land Banking, Land Flipping, and Rentals
Real estate is a passive income source for many in the diaspora.
a. Land Banking
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Buy land in developing areas and hold it for several years.
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Resell later at a higher price for profit.
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Example: Purchase in a growing area for 2–5 million CFA and sell after 3–5 years at double or triple the price.
b. Land Flipping
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Buy land in already developed areas, perform minimal development (fencing, clearing), and sell quickly.
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Target buyers include people who want to build immediately.
c. Rental Income
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Construct houses, apartments, or studios on the land.
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Rent to students, university staff, or other tenants in high-demand areas.
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Some properties are used for short-term rentals (guest houses or Airbnb-style stays).
These methods provide steady cash flow while property values appreciate over time.
The Importance of Trustworthy Real Estate Companies
Investing from abroad requires reliable partners:
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Avoid relying solely on family or friends, as conflicts of interest or mismanagement can arise.
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Genuine real estate companies have reputations to protect and offer:
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Proper documentation
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Construction monitoring
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Property management (for a fee)
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This ensures your investment is secure and professionally handled.
Conclusion
Cameroonians abroad are investing heavily in real estate for three main reasons:
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To have a safe home for themselves and family.
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To secure the future of their children or loved ones.
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To generate income through land banking, flipping, or rentals.
With the fast-growing real estate market in cities like Buoya, property remains one of the most reliable and profitable investments.
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