Your Guide to Island Living

Explore essential questions for first-time buyers in Sri Lanka. From budget to security, we provide the ultimate checklist for purchasing your dream home or villa.

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Expert Advice

Frequently asked questions

What exactly does Ceylon Domicile Company do?

We are your dedicated guide to property in Sri Lanka. We simplify the entire process through three core services:

General Consultation: Providing expert advice on the Sri Lankan real estate market, legalities, and best practices.
Expert Connections: We connect you with our vetted network of trusted local experts, including lawyers, architects, builders, and real estate agents.
Facilitation Service: We manage the entire interface between you and all involved parties, ensuring clear communication, smooth progress, and peace of mind throughout your journey.

Can foreigners legally own property in Sri Lanka?

Yes, absolutely. Foreigners can freely own apartments (known as "strata title") and can purchase land through a legally recognized structure like a leasehold agreement or by incorporating a Sri Lankan company. This is a common and secure practice, and one of the first things we will connect you with an expert lawyer to explain in detail.

Why should I use your service instead of going directly to a real estate agent?

A real estate agent's primary role is to find and sell a property. Our role is to represent you. We provide unbiased advice on the entire ecosystem—from deciding if Sri Lanka is right for you, to budgeting for maintenance, to navigating legalities post-purchase. We ensure every expert you work with, including agents, has your best interests at heart.

What is the "My Dream Home" program for those over 50?

This is a special visa program designed to encourage foreigners over the age of 50 to reside in Sri Lanka. It offers residency and various import duty benefits for those who make a qualifying financial investment, often in real estate. We can facilitate the interface between you, your lawyer, and immigration experts to explore if this program is right for you.

I’m just starting to think about a property. Is it too early to contact you?

Not at all! In fact, it's the perfect time. Our General Consultation service is designed for clients in the dreaming and planning phase. We can help you ask the right questions (like those in our questionnaire) and set a realistic plan, potentially saving you time, money, and stress down the line.

What are the hidden costs I should budget for beyond the purchase price?
Beyond the price, you should budget for:

Legal Fees (for due diligence and structuring purchase)
Government Taxes & Registration Fees
Notary Fees
Ongoing Costs: Annual property taxes, monthly maintenance, security, utilities, and pool/garden upkeep. Our consultants help you build a complete financial model.

About Our Services

The Buying Process & Legalities

Lifestyle & Property Management

I’ve never been to Sri Lanka. How do I know which region is right for me?

This is a key area where our expert guidance is invaluable. Sri Lanka has diverse coasts and climates:

South Coast (e.g., Galle, Unawatuna): Popular, developed, with great restaurants and services.
West Coast (e.g., Mount Lavinia, Kalutara): Easy access to Colombo (the capital).
East Coast (e.g., Pasikudah, Arugam Bay): Pristine, quieter, with distinct seasonal weather.
Hill Country (e.g., Kandy, Ella): Cooler temperatures, lush tea plantations, and mountain views.
We help you match a region to your lifestyle goals (e.g., quiet vs. social, beachfront vs. inland).

If I buy a vacation home, can I rent it out when I’m not there?

Yes, the tourist rental market is very active. We can get you in touch with professional property management companies who handle bookings, guest services, cleaning, and maintenance, providing you with a potential income stream.

What are typical monthly costs for maintenance and security?

This varies greatly by property size and location. A small villa with a garden might cost $150-$300 per month for a gardener and basic upkeep. A larger beachfront property with a pool and 24/7 security could range from $500 to $1,000+ per month. We provide realistic estimates based on your specific property criteria.

Getting Started

I don’t speak Sinhala or Tamil. Will this be a problem?

Not at all. English is widely spoken, especially in the business, tourism, and legal sectors. All the experts in our network are proficient in English. Furthermore, our facilitation service ensures perfect communication clarity throughout your project.

What is the first step I should take?

The best first step is to complete our detailed questionnaire. This helps us understand your vision, budget, and needs intimately. From there, we can schedule a personalized General Consultation to chart your pathway to a Sri Lankan domicile.

How are you compensated for your services?

Our consultation and facilitation services are typically structured as fixed-fee packages, agreed upon upfront with complete transparency. In some cases, we may receive a referral fee from our network partners, which we will always disclose to you. Our primary goal is your satisfaction and a successful outcome.