Whether you are looking to buy an apartment in Lebanon or simply want to find out more about the state of the property market in Lebanon, this article will provide you with the latest useful updates as of October 2011.

After several years of unwavering growth, double-digit price increases and hyperactivity, the real estate market in Lebanon has recently entered a more stable phase. Traditionally, the local market was primarily driven by a highly liquid expatriate community, particularly Lebanese living in the Gulf and other parts of the world. The scarcity of funds available in most of these countries has changed the buying conditions in the Lebanese real estate market.

The real estate sector in Lebanon has now entered a more stable phase with reasonable growth that appears healthy and sustainable. The most important market indicator, which is demand, still points to a healthy situation; however, it has become increasingly sophisticated and buyers are trying to identify apartments below their fair market value.

In the following lines, we will show possible real estate opportunities for selected areas in Beirut.

In Achrafieh, there is significant potential for office development along Pierre Gemayel avenue and on the south side of the Charles Helou port area. Those areas offer competitive prices and easy access to the central part of Beirut.

Hamra is currently recording some of the highest retail occupancy rates in Beirut. It is a destination address that attracts a large, vibrant student population and a professional community, including expats. With many food and entertainment hot spots, Hamra currently offers many opportunities in sales and rentals.

Stretching roughly six kilometers along the Mediterranean Sea, Beirut’s waterfront is an ideal place to locate conspicuous and iconic towers. Currently there are approximately two dozen plots that offer an unobstructed view of the Mediterranean. This limited supply gives the area its status as a niche market and ensures a ready clientele for its products.

The Hazmieh area is also thriving through additional new development projects, primarily in the Mar Takla neighborhood, with an emphasis on local, medium-sized apartments. The upcoming development of a large shopping center in this city will undoubtedly provide an additional boost to prices in the area and benefit general sales and rental activity in the surrounding area.

In summary, the real estate sector in Lebanon is experiencing healthy and more stable growth at the moment. Mid-size apartments are favored over other asset classes, whether for residential use or investment purposes. Certain areas in Beirut are thriving with a number of new development projects, and overall the steady trend is expected to continue as we end 2011 and enter 2012.