Question 1

Do I need an account to use Isanzi?

Accepted Answer

You can browse listings, view properties, and send enquiries, and book viewings without an account. However, creating a free account allows you to save properties, save searches, set up alerts, and manage all your enquiries from a single dashboard.

Question 2

Does it cost anything to create an account or list a property?

Accepted Answer

No. Creating an account is free, and you can upload your property for free. A fee is only triggered if we successfully introduce a buyer or tenant who signs a contract.

Question 3

What can I do with a free Isanzi account?

Accepted Answer

A free account gives you full control of your property journey. You can save properties to your shortlist, save your searches, and set up email alerts so you are notified the moment a matching property goes live. You can also manage all your enquiries from one dashboard. If you are an owner or landlord, your account allows you to upload and manage your property listings and view your property analytics.

Question 4

Do tenants pay any agency fees?

Accepted Answer

No. Isanzi does not charge tenants a commission, or viewing fee. Tenants are responsible for rent, the security deposit, and utility costs (including connection fees if any).

Question 5

How much is the security deposit?

Accepted Answer

Security deposits are not governed by a specific legal statute in Rwanda. Market practice is typically one month's rent, but the exact amount and conditions for its return must be clearly stated in your tenancy agreement. We recommend insisting on a joint, photo-documented inventory before you move in to protect your deposit.

Question 6

What is a UPI, and why should I check it?

Accepted Answer

The Unique Parcel Identifier (UPI) is the official reference number for a registered plot of land in Rwanda. You can check the title status yourself for free by dialling *651# and entering the UPI, or by visiting the NLA portal at amakuru.lands.rw. Never negotiate on a property without confirming the UPI.

Question 7

Can foreign nationals buy property in Rwanda?

Accepted Answer

Yes, with conditions. Foreign nationals acquire land rights through a registered emphyteutic leasehold, rather than direct freehold. For standard residential plots up to 300 sqm, no investment certificate is required. For land exceeding 300 sqm, multiple plots, or commercial land, you will need an RDB Investment Certificate (USD 500 fee).

Question 8

What is the difference between Tenant Find and Property Management?

Accepted Answer

Tenant Find: We list your property, conduct viewings, vet the tenant, prepare the tenancy agreement, and complete the inventory. Our work ends at move-in. Property Management: This includes everything in Tenant Find, plus we coordinate maintenance and repairs, and conduct periodic inspections on your behalf.

Question 9

Who submits the tenancy agreement to the tax authorities?

Accepted Answer

The landlord is legally responsible for submitting a copy of the signed tenancy agreement to the Rwanda Revenue Authority (RRA) within 15 days of signing. Isanzi will send you a reminder and provide the link to the RRA portal, but the submission is your responsibility.

Question 10

Do you draft sale agreements?

Accepted Answer

No. Under Rwandan law, sale contracts for immovable property must be notarised by a qualified notary. We facilitate the process, negotiate terms, and coordinate with your chosen notary and the NLA, but we do not draft the final agreement.

Question 11

What happens if a tenant stops paying rent?

Accepted Answer

Our standard Property Management covers late payment follow-ups. If a formal dispute arises, we can coordinate with your legal representative or a licensed court bailiff. However, we do not provide legal advice, and formal eviction proceedings are handled by qualified professionals.

Question 12

How do you handle maintenance and repairs?

Accepted Answer

We coordinate routine and emergency repairs with vetted contractors. We supervise the work and provide you with reports and invoices for every job. For larger works, we will obtain your approval before proceeding.

Question 13

Do you charge fees for commercial property?

Accepted Answer

We charge an advertising and marketing fee to the property owner. For tenants, we charge a transparent administration fee. This covers business verification, site visits, and lease coordination. Commercial leases are drafted by advocates, with fees regulated by the Rwanda Bar Association. Contact us for our current commercial fee schedule.

Question 14

What should I check before buying off-plan?

Accepted Answer

You must verify the developer's RDB registration, confirm the building permit with the district, and check the land's UPI. Most importantly, insist that your deposit and stage payments are held in a bank escrow account, released only when milestones are met.

Question 15

Do you calculate rental yields?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Where the owner or vendor provides an expected monthly rent, we display an indicative gross yield on the listing. This figure is calculated using the asking price and the expected rent. It is a starting point for your own due diligence. Isanzi does not verify these specific financial figures and does not provide financial advice.

Question 16

Can you help me manage a property from abroad?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We act as your local presence in Rwanda. We can arrange virtual viewings, coordinate the tenancy agreement, handle maintenance, and provide monthly financial reports. We can also guide you through authorising a representative via IremboGov if you need one.

Frequently Asked Questions

General & Accounts

For Tenants & Buyers

For Landlords & Sellers

Property Management

Land, Commercial & New Builds

Investment & Advisory