What are the top factors to keep in mind when searching for a place to live in your city?
Your budget: Accommodation is extremely high in cost and yet the standard rather low. Traveling distance to work and school: Traffic congestion is the main concern, especially in the morning. Type of accommodation: This is the first decision you have to make, depending on your lifestyle and family size. You have a choice of living in a secure compound, stand-alone house or bungalow, duplexes or apartments. Such complexes include swimming pool, gym, tennis court and security. All options have pros and cons; if you make a list of your requirements, it is easier to weigh the options.
↑ Top

What are the most popular neighborhoods in your city for expats?
Oyster Bay and the Peninsula
The most prominent and sought-after areas are Masaki (near the Yacht Club), Msasani Peninsular and Oyster Bay. All are centrally located nearby the IST (Upper) School, shopping centers, hospitals, hotels and restaurants. The areas have been developing at an amazing rate in the last five to seven years and you now have a choice of all types of accommodation. Because these areas are in high demand, the rents are much higher and payment terms are seldom less than a year.

Mikocheni A & B
These areas are located off the Old Bagamoyo Road near three big shopping centers but are approximately 5 to 10 km away from the Peninsular and the city center. The properties here, in general, are slightly larger and sometimes better value for money. The downside can be increased traffic in this area, although this is mostly during peak hours heading toward the city. The area is considered safe, but we recommend 24-hour security for all leased property.

Ada and Regent Estates
Ada Estate is situated just past the Protea Apartments on the Haille Selassie Road. Regent Estate is opposite the American Embassy and near Shopper Plaza. The houses usually have larger gardens and, due to their age, have a more colonial feel. It is good to make sure that mosquito gauze is secured on both windows and doors to avoid getting malaria as these areas can be mosquito infested at times.

Kawe and Mbezi Beaches
While these areas boast some beautiful homes with direct beach access, some of the roads are not well maintained during the rainy seasons. Many roads are being upgraded. Traveling to the Peninsular can take up to 30 minutes and traveling back at night is difficult.

Kinondoni and Upanga
This area is much closer to town and does have a greater number of apartments, including a complex of three high-rise flats. The tenants tend to be single people who need to get to work nearby. Many of the embassies, United Nations agencies and NGOs have offices in Upanga. So does the IST Elementary School, Moslem School and the Diamond Jubilee Conference Hall.
↑ Top

Do expats tend to buy or rent their homes?
Foreigners are not allowed to buy property. Only businesses are permitted to buy on a 99-year lease agreement. So, as a general rule, accommodation is rented.
↑ Top

Typically, will I be required to pay additional money up front (such as a deposit) before moving into leased housing? If so, how much is common?
Landlords of property on the Peninsular demand an advance payment for one year. In other areas, some owners ask for only six months in advance.
Rental rates - examples:
Oyster Bay and Peninsular - from US$2,500 up to US$15,000 per month
Mikocheni - from US$1,500 to US$3,000 per month
Kawe and Mbezi Beach - from US$750 to US$3,000 per month
Kinondoni and Upanga - from US$1,000 to US$5,000 per month
↑ Top

Are utilities generally included in the price of rent, or are they extra?
No.
Water is a factor to be considered when moving to an area. In certain areas, for example the Yacht Club and Masaki, a house for a family of four requires water to be trucked in four times a month at US$50 a delivery. If DAWASCO, the local company distributing water around Dar es Salaam, is connected to your home, it can cost about TSH 100,000 (US$85 per month).

Electricity is another high-cost factor. A house consuming electricity for air conditioners and appliances can be as much as TSH 500,000 (US$430 per month). TANESCO sells prepaid electricity through its LUKU offices from Monday to Saturday. Some garages offer a 24-hour service for sales of LUKU. Gas is a very useful alternative to electricity and is readily available. Most dukas (local shops) sell it late at night.
↑ Top

Are there special security concerns I should be aware of in regards to my home or choice of neighborhood?
Tanzania is considered safe, but there is an increase in petty theft and some gang-related attacks on lone people. Avoid flashy displays of wealth and travel accompanied by companions. Burglary in the home is rare, but one should employ a 24-hour security service.
↑ Top

I’m not sure if I should bring my appliances. What is the electric current, Hz and plug shape in your city?
The voltage system is 220 but because of the fluctuating voltage, most households buy many protection plugs to prevent their appliances from being destroyed by the sharp peaks and troughs in supply. Most appliances function here. Plugs are a three-prong square with a 13 amp fuse.
↑ Top

Do you have any other accommodation information that might help me?
While looking for your home, you may consider the option of furnished accommodation on a short-term lease. Ask for a list of accommodations available, but book early because this option is scarce in Dar es Salaam.
↑ Top

IMPORTANT NOTE:

Crown Relocations has made every effort to present accurate information. However, regulations, rates and other variables are subject to change and Crown Relocations cannot accept responsibility for the errors that might result. Should you have any questions or need additional information, please contact your local Crown representative.