Rami Yazbek

Jbeil (Byblos) and Batroun have seen a significant increase in property prices over the last few years.

Hotspots that were once off the beaten path on Lebanon’s northern coast, Jbeil and Batroun, have today become among the most sought-after regions for Lebanese and expats alike.

But what has caused this rise, and is it likely to continue in the years to come?
The answer to both is yes.

However, let’s delve deeper into understanding the reasons behind this.
Tourism: The Jbeil & Batroun coastline is fast becoming a hotspot of activity. From beach resorts and beach clubs to nightlife hubs, Jbeil and Batroun attract thousands of visitors every summer.

With a year-on-year increase in tourism, the demand for real estate is rising to meet the needs of an increased rental market demand (coastal or nearby mountain apartment, or commercial land/property to develop a mixed-use).

Projects: Boutique guesthouses and smaller hospitality projects are booming all over the country, and this is another factor that is supporting property prices. There’s no lack of projects, from converting traditional stone houses into quirky guesthouses to setting up boutique hotel concepts. From July to September, occupancy is at its peak.

Arts, culture & spirituality: Jbeil & Batroun are no longer all about the sea. Byblos, being a UNESCO World Heritage Site with its ancient port and citadel, hosts summer festivals, and Batroun is becoming home to cultural events. In addition to this, the growing trend of religious trips with thousands of pilgrims from around the world coming to visit the country every year is another activity that continues to attract visitors all year round. Both of which are also supporting demand for rentals and second homes.

Lifestyle: One of the key reasons for the rise in property prices in Jbeil & Batroun is the nature of life on offer. Sitting between the mountains and the sea is what makes Jbeil & Batroun unique. Minutes away from mountain freshness or breathtaking seaside views. Add to this the buzz of café culture, family-run restaurants, and specialty stores, and a rise of interest in eco-living and agritourism projects. You have a recipe for sustainable, desirable living. Potential buyers are looking for more than just an investment or a holiday house; they want to buy a lifestyle.

Investment: Compared to other regions, investors are seeing a higher rate of return in Jbeil & Batroun. Short-term summer Airbnb rentals or long-term leases are both in demand, from Lebanese and expats alike. With a strong rental yield and a rising market, the incentive to invest in Jbeil & Batroun is growing.

Forecast: With new and expanded hotels opening every summer in the region, along with infrastructure improvements and a strong Lebanese demand from expatriates either returning to Lebanon and investing in second homes or leasing properties in both Jbeil & Batroun. Property prices are likely to continue their upward trajectory.

Yazbek Real Estate is not convinced that Jbeil and Batroun are “emerging markets” anymore. We see them as consolidated growth regions with strong fundamentals.

Whether you are looking for a seaside apartment, mountain villa, land to develop, or a unique stone house to transform into a guesthouse, the time is now!