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How can foreigners buy real estate in Serbia and obtain residency?

How can foreigners buy real estate in Serbia and obtain residency?

How can foreigners buy real estate in Serbia and obtain residency?
  • How to Successfully BuyReal Estate in Serbia: Rights, Obligations, and Process
  • How to obtain a residence permit in Serbia through real estate purchase?
  • How to choose the perfect apartment in Belgrade: useful tips and recommendations
  • How to choose the perfect property in Belgrade?
  • How to buyreal estate in Serbia: tips and recommendations for buyers
  • How to effectively interact with a realtor when buying property in Serbia?
  • How to ensure the legality of a transaction when buying or selling real estate?
  • Understanding the stages of purchasing real estate: responsibilities, calculations, and protection of rights
  • How to properly register and purchase real estate in Serbia?
  • What are the features of paying for legal services when purchasing real estate in Serbia?

Buying real estate in Serbia: rights and obligations

The purchase of property in Serbia attracts the attention of many foreign citizens. In this article, we will take a detailed look at the rights and obligations of foreign buyers, the conditions for searching for real estate, the process of interacting with realtors, and the various stages of transactions.

Legal aspects for foreign investors

The legal aspects concerning foreign investors in real estate in Serbia are quite clear. It should be noted that for citizens of fair countries, there is an opportunity to purchase real estate based on the principle of reciprocity. This means that if residents of Serbia are allowed to acquire property in certain countries, then citizens of those countries can also buy similar property in Serbia. Such countries include:

  • Russia
  • Former Soviet republics
  • Israel
  • U.S.
  • Canada

In cases where individuals do not have the right to acquire, they can carry out the transaction through a legal entity. It is important to note that foreign companies must have legal operations in Serbia and open a business account in a bank to carry out such transactions.

Types of real estate and exceptions

Comprehensive information about the rights of foreigners to purchase real estate in Serbia indicates the possibility of acquiring all types of housing. However, there are exceptions: ownership of land intended for agricultural use, such as forests, gardens, pastures, and nature reserve areas, is not allowed. Violating these regulations may lead to legal consequences.

Moreover, there are restrictions regarding objects located near military installations and within urban development areas.

The process of obtaining a visa and residence permit

Now let's focus on the process of obtaining a visa and residence permit. Significant changes in the law, initiated in the summer of 2023, pertain to foreign citizens acquiring real estate. These amendments have greatly simplified the legalization procedures.

After purchasing property, there is an opportunity to obtain a single document (jedinstvena dozvola) that combines the status of a work permit and residence permit. This document can be issued for a period of up to three years, with the possibility of extending it for another three years. Previously, a work visa was granted for only one year.

Thus, after three years of residence with a residence permit, a foreigner has the opportunity to convert their status to permanent residency, which paves the way for submitting documents to obtain Serbian citizenship immediately after obtaining permanent status.

Advantages of the Serbian real estate market

It should also be noted that the Serbian real estate market is attractive due to a number of factors, including affordable prices and a wide range of options. If you are considering the possibility of purchasing property in this region, you should carefully review the available options and conditions.

It is extremely important to choose an experienced realtor who can assist you in finding and completing the transaction. A qualified professional will be able to provide the necessary support and protect the client's interests at all stages of the process.

Conclusion

Ultimately, buying real estate in Serbia is an attractive offer for many foreigners seeking a new life or investment opportunities. Considering all the points mentioned above, as well as the key rights and obligations, you will be able to make an informed decision that aligns with your expectations and needs.

Rules for obtaining a residence permit for family members

Close relatives, such as spouses and their children, have the right to apply for residence permits on the grounds of "family reunification." However, such preferences are not available for other individuals, including friends and acquaintances. They will need to provide additional reasons for being in Serbia, such as studying, working, or business activities. We strongly recommend reviewing our detailed guide on immigration to Serbia through real estate acquisition.

Preparing for a property search

Before starting the search for housing in Serbia, it is advisable to familiarize yourself with the general state of the real estate market. In the initial stages, it is worth studying a variety of articles and news publications on this topic to better understand the price categories. It will also be helpful to review various real estate options presented in specialized databases. For convenience, the properties are classified by regions, price categories, and types.

Using filters for search

Additionally, use the suggested filters that will help sort the items by the following parameters:

  • square
  • number of rooms
  • location
  • other characteristics

You have the option to save your search results and subscribe to notifications for new suitable offers. The description of each property includes the seller's contact information, who will be able to answer all your questions.

Referral to specialists

If you have any questions related to real estate, you can reach out to specialists working in this field. If you haven't been able to find a suitable property in the existing database, you can always submit a request, detailing all your wishes and requirements. In the future, real estate agents will be able to offer you relevant options.

Real estate listings

Currently, there are many real estate properties available on the market. For example, you can buy a house in Niche for the price of350,000€, with an area of70 square meterswith the possibility of obtaining a residence permit. This extensive land plot is intended for agricultural use, with an adjacent area in10 hectaresThe property features a house or office with an area of70 square metersand there is also a well with a depth of35 meterswith a performance of about40 cubic meters per dayThe convenient access to the estate is provided by an asphalt road surrounded by a garden with raspberries, pears, apple trees, and plums.

Other real estate options

If you are interested in housing in Novi Sad, you might consider an offer priced at388,000€This is a house with an area of250 m2, consisting of five rooms, including three bedrooms and two bathrooms. This property is also available for obtaining a residence permit.

Currently, our company offers services for selecting and selling real estate, as well as assistance in obtaining Serbian residency in Vojvodina, including the city of Novi Sad and other localities in the region.

Options for small apartments

For those looking for a small apartment, there is an option in Belgrade priced at80,000€This cozy accommodation has an area of33 square meterslocated in an area with developed infrastructure and good transport links, just ain 20 minutesfrom the city center. The apartment includes a compact kitchen and a balcony.

The house is located in a green area, away from noisy roads, ensuring peace and comfort. Don't miss the chance to find your perfect home in Serbia by using our tips!

How can foreigners buy real estate in Serbia and obtain residency?

Overview of the real estate market in Belgrade

In this article, we will discuss real estate options in the capital of Serbia — Belgrade. The focus will be on the various apartments available for purchase, their features, locations, and the amenities they offer.

Cozy apartment in New Belgrade

The first property we will look at is a cozy apartment with a total area of 84 m², located in a modern residential complex. Its price is300,000 €It is located in a prestigious area of New Belgrade and includes a bright living room with a comfortable kitchen, two bedrooms, and two bathrooms.

The use of modern finishing materials and the presence of panoramic windows create an atmosphere of comfort and coziness. Children's playgrounds, restaurants, and markets are located in close proximity, making everyday life here especially convenient and enjoyable.

Apartment in the Vračar area

The next property in our review is a 45 m² apartment, priced at171,500 €located in the attic in the Vračar area. This is a new building situated in a beautiful and developing neighborhood, close to the Belgrade Drama Theatre and important infrastructure such as schools and shops.

The apartment is equipped with an autonomous heating system with individual boilers. This offer is perfect for potential investors looking for compact housing and the opportunity to obtain a residence permit upon purchase, as well as payment in rubles.

Four-room apartment on Voislav Ilić.

Another interesting option is a fully renovated four-room apartment with an area of92 square meters, which is offered for220,000 €It is located on the high first floor in the area of Voislav Ilić and Ustaški, with a beautiful view of a peaceful park.

The apartment is registered without encumbrances and is ready for immediate occupancy. It also includes an elevator, intercom, and central heating, which significantly enhances living comfort. The availability of good transportation access makes it even more attractive.

Apartment in the center of Zemun

Another apartment located in the center of Zemun, with an area of102 m², it is proposed for320,000 €It is located on the high first floor of a three-story brick building. This apartment features a functional layout that includes a bright living room, two separate bedrooms, a kitchen, and two bathrooms.

A spacious terrace and a storage room serve as special additions. Recent renovations make this property particularly attractive to potential buyers.

Three-room apartment in Mirijevo

There is also interest in a three-room apartment in Mirijevo, priced at137,600 €with an area64 square metersIt has been renovated and is located in a well-maintained building constructed in 2012. Inside, there is a cozy living room, two bedrooms, and two terraces, one of which is glazed.

The current utility payments amount to approximately40 €per month, and the price includes almost new quality furniture.

Apartment with opportunities for individual design

For those looking for comfortable housing in New Belgrade, it is worth considering an apartment with an area of84 m², the cost of which is302,300 €It is located in the 65 area, which offers excellent transportation accessibility, as well as proximity to kindergartens and educational institutions.

The city center can be reached in just 15 minutes by car. Buying an apartment in a new building offers the opportunity to create an interior according to the owner's taste and preferences.

Luxurious two-level apartment

In conclusion, special attention should be given to the luxurious two-level apartment with an area of188 m², the cost of which is676,548 €This unique property is one of the most sought-after on the New Belgrade market and impresses with its exclusivity and richness.

Conclusions

Thus, the real estate market in Belgrade offers a variety of apartments to suit every taste and budget. Each listing has its own features and advantages, making your choice of new housing more informed and considered.

Unique real estate offer

Real estate with stunning panoramas and thoughtful layouts offers a unique opportunity for you to become the owner of this outstanding property. Let's take a closer look at this offer.

Luxury apartments in Vračar

We present to you magnificent, recently renovated luxury apartments located in the heart of the Vračar district, just a few minutes' walk from the famous Saint Sava Temple. Fully updated in 2023, these apartments are sure to impress even the most discerning clients.

Here you will find:

  • exquisite herringbone parquet
  • stylish bathrooms
  • modern kitchen area
  • spacious bedrooms

All of this creates an atmosphere of comfort and coziness.

Stylish apartment in Belgrade

If you are looking for a small yet elegant apartment in Belgrade, consider this modern 42-square-meter residence located in a quiet area. This new property offers ideal conditions for comfortable relaxation and living.

The apartment's interior was carefully designed, taking into account all aspects of modern living — space, lighting accents, and high-quality finishing materials.

Comfortable apartment with a guarantee

Another interesting option is an apartment with an area of 51 square meters, which has been completely renovated and equipped with everything you need. It is located on the third floor and is close to a supermarket.

The building has:

  • elevator
  • central heating
  • air conditioner

All the equipment here is completely new and comes with a warranty. The interior space includes:

  • the hallway
  • bathroom
  • bedroom
  • a kitchen with access to the terrace
  • spacious living room

A cozy home for solitude

If you prefer solitude, a one-story house with 2.78-meter high ceilings, which was renovated in 2016, would be suitable for you. A shared courtyard is just a few minutes away from the house, and the building is fully equipped with necessary utilities — a new roof, waterproofing, and thermal insulation.

The interior space includes:

  • the hallway
  • a bathroom with natural ventilation
  • a cozy living room with a dining area and kitchen
  • a bedroom with a walk-in closet

A complex with several apartments

For those looking for a larger property, it is worth considering the offer to purchase an entire complex consisting of four separate apartments, each measuring 35 m². The complex is surrounded by a large yard with green thuja trees.

This property is located in close proximity to the bus stop, providing convenient access to various parts of the city.

Apartment in a new building

It is worth highlighting the wonderful apartment in a new building located in the center of Vračar. It will delight its owners with high-quality finishes and includes three rooms, among which:

  • bedroom with a separate bathroom
  • spacious kitchen
  • cozy terrace

There are only eight apartments in the building, and there is also the option to purchase a parking space.

Exclusive apartments in Dedinye

Don't miss the opportunity to own exclusive apartments in Dedinye. These luxurious flats, located in the Terra residential and business complex, are a model of coziness and comfort. The architectural design and stylish interior set the project apart, creating a unique atmosphere of a distinctive lifestyle.

Cozy studio in the Roosevelt area

You might also be interested in a small studio in the Roosevelt area. This cozy apartment, measuring 32 m², is located in close proximity to the Vuk Monument and represents an excellent investment opportunity.

Although it requires some partial updates, all the documents are in order, and it is located in a quiet courtyard.

Luxurious apartment in the New Belgrade area

For those who appreciate a luxurious lifestyle, an apartment in the New Belgrade area, in the residential complex of Phase IV on Block 67a, may catch their attention. The elegant interior and functional design of the apartment offer a private bedroom, as well as a balcony with a beautiful view of the green squares.

The heating here is organized using heat pumps, and there is underfloor heating in the bathroom.

Studio on Woodrow Wilson Boulevard

In conclusion, we present to you an amazing studio of 30 square meters located on Woodrow Wilson Boulevard, situated on the sixth floor of a modern building with an elevator. This property is located in a green and quiet part of the city, creating ideal conditions for comfortable living.

Conclusion

Regardless of your preferences, you will find something unique in each of these options. Among the diverse choices, you are likely to discover exactly what meets your needs.

Apartment description

An apartment is for sale, offered in fully furnished condition with a wonderful terrace. The price of this apartment is 220,000 euros. There is significant interest from tenants and investors in this type of property in the area.

Additional options

If you are interested in additional options, we recommend checking out 241 similar offers, as well as exploring other listings on popular Serbian platforms such as halooglasi (you may need a VPN to access it) and 4zidanekretninecityexpert.rs.

Who can purchase real estate in Serbia?

It is important to consider who exactly has the right to acquire real estate in Serbia. Each owner can independently manage their property or seek assistance from intermediaries by granting a power of attorney through a notary.Citizens of RussiaThey have the full right to both buy and sell their property in Serbia.

The need for a realtor

Is a realtor necessary for a foreign buyer? The law does not require foreigners to work with an agent, but many prefer to collaborate with professionals. Most often, legal services are included in the basic package, but if desired, additional consultations and document checks can be requested, which significantly reduces risks.

Unregistered property

It should be noted that there is a significant market for unregistered real estate in Serbia. In some cases, the properties are legal but have not yet been registered. This applies to both new constructions and secondary housing that fully complies with regulations but has not been registered by previous owners.

Registration of property rights

The new owner will need to submit documents for property rights registration, which entails additional costs and difficulties.The purchase of such properties is possible.and their cost is usually lower than that of registered real estate. However, there are also certain risks involved:

  • The registration rules may change.
  • It can be difficult to get a loan for such a purchase.
  • Some properties may be nearly impossible to register due to construction violations.

The role of a local expert

To avoid potential issues, it is crucial to have a local expert on hand. It is also worth noting that in Serbia, a realtor is required to have a license. You can verify the existence of a license on the official website of the Ministry of Trade, Tourism, and Telecommunications.

Responsibilities of realtors

When it comes to the tasks of realtors in Serbia, foreign buyers often face two main obstacles:

  • Language barriers.
  • The complexities of local legislation.

Working with a real estateagency significantly simplifies the buying process. Firstly, agents may have exclusive offers, as well as established connections with lawyers to ensure the reliability of the transaction.

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Thus, using professional services is justified and reasonable when conducting any real estate transactions in Serbia.

Convenience of interacting with a realtor

In addition to everything else, interacting with a realtor who speaks Russian is a more convenient option for buyers. It helps avoid costs for translation services that may be needed at various stages of the transaction when buying or renting property.

Nevertheless, it should be noted that there are not many Russian-speaking agents in Serbia, and they usually work in large real estate agencies that have several offices or are located in the centers of major tourist cities like Belgrade and Novi Sad.

The main responsibilities of a realtor

The main tasks of a realtor are:

  • organization of property viewings;
  • participation in negotiations to finalize the sale deal;
  • provision of all necessary documents for the property;
  • providing legal support for the lawyer at all stages of the transaction;
  • Coordination of all necessary actions for signing preliminary and main purchase and sale contracts;
  • the transfer of funds from a bank account.

The role of a realtor in a transaction

An important question: which side does the realtor take when managing the sales process? A real estate specialist represents the interests of both the seller and the buyer, ensuring the transparency and legality of the contract, which is one of their main responsibilities alongside the notary and the lawyer.

Personal experience of moving to Serbia

It's also important to consider personal experience — what it's like to move to Serbia and adapt to life in Belgrade.

Stages of a real estate transaction

Now let's consider the sequence of steps necessary for a real estate transaction. The first stage is the reservation of the property. When the buyer finds a suitable property, they can reserve it for a period that is agreed upon in advance during negotiations with the seller.

This period usually ranges from one week to one month. To reserve a property, the buyer typically needs to make a deposit, which is most often held by the real estateagency or a lawyer. The deposit amount for an apartment costing 100,000 euros usually varies from 1,000 to 5,000 euros, but the final amount is determined during negotiations.

At this time, the seller agrees to remove the listing and not engage in discussions with other potential buyers. The deposit may be refunded if the parties decide to withdraw from the deal for valid reasons. However, in practice, reserving real estate is not always a common practice.

Signing a preliminary contract

At the second stage, a preliminary contract is signed. As soon as the buyer makes a decision, a preliminary purchase agreement is formalized with a notary. This document has the same legal force as the main contract and includes:

  • property description;
  • price;
  • the size of the down payment, which usually amounts to 10% of the total cost of the property;
  • the deadlines within which the main contract will be signed.

Conclusion

Thus, the process of acquiring real estate in Serbia involves several key stages and requires attentiveness from both parties — the buyer and the realtor — to ensure a successful transaction and protect the interests of all participants.

In addition to the above conditions, a clause is added to the agreement that gives the seller the right not to return the advance payment. This right arises if the buyer unjustifiably refuses to complete the transaction or violates the deadlines for fulfilling obligations under the main contract and payment. If the buyer fails to meet the terms of the deal, the advance payment, also known as "kapara," remains with the seller. In cases where the seller breaches the obligations, he must return the advance payment to the buyer in double the amount.

When the preliminary contract is signed and the advance payment is made, but the deal does not go through, the realtor is not held responsible for this. According to the law, the realtor has the right to demand their commission after the preliminary agreement is signed, as at that moment the deal is considered completed and their work is done. The agent continues to provide support throughout the transaction process, ensuring that all stages are legal, including the signing of the main contract, making payments at the bank, and signing the property transfer act.

Stage 3. Signing of the main sales contract

The signing of the main purchase and sale agreement is carried out based on a contract that is specifically developed for this purpose by a lawyer. Payment for the lawyer's services can be made separately or included in the total commission cost if the transaction is conducted through an agency. The main contract is notarized, which requires the presence of buyers, sellers, realtors, a licensed court translator, and at least two witnesses. Witnesses can be any individuals who are proficient in both Serbian and Russian, including realtors who speak Russian.

The documents are prepared in Serbian. The notary reads the text of the contract aloud, and a court translator provides simultaneous translation. For an additional fee, a certified translation of the contract into Russian can be ordered. This contract is drawn up in writing and must include the following information:

  • Information about the parties:If these are individuals, their last name, first name, patronymic, passport details, and the name of one parent must be provided; for Russian citizens, the patronymic is also mandatory. If the contract is signed by a legal entity, complete information about the company must be provided: name, identification number (PDV), tax number (PIB), legal address, as well as the last name and passport details of the authorized representative.
  • Property description:The contract must specify all characteristics, such as the type of building (apartment, house, or land plot), its area, location, number of floors, and unit number, as well as information about any possible encumbrances. An extract from the cadastre confirming the properties of the real estate, which is valid for 30 days from the date of issuance, is attached to the main contract.
  • Clarity of the terms:It is important that all the terms of the contract are clearly and accessibly stated for all participants, as this will help avoid misunderstandings or disputes in the future.

Observing all these formalities ensures the protection of the rights of the parties involved in the transaction and makes the buying and selling process as transparent and legal as possible.

Pricing parameters and calculation mechanisms

The price parameters of real estate, transaction timelines, and payment mechanisms are important elements in the purchasing process. The responsibility of the parties plays a key role in this area.

Obligations of the parties

The seller is responsible for paying all taxes and utility fees related to the property and must provide the necessary supporting documents at the time of signing the contract. In turn, the buyer is obligated to register the tax liabilities in their name and update the information with the relevant utility services within the deadlines specified in the contract.

Protection of good faith buyers

Moreover, an important aspect of protecting parties from potential loss of property rights is the mechanism for safeguarding good faith purchasers from possible claims by third parties.

Signatures of the parties

It is also necessary for all parties involved in the transaction, including the translator and witnesses, to sign the document. Usually, the main document is four to five pages long.

New residential development

The new residential development in Novi Sad represents a promising investment opportunity.

Payment stage of the transaction

At the final stage of the transaction, correct payment is important. Amounts up to €10,000 can be paid in cash, but for amounts exceeding this figure, a bank transfer from the buyer's account to the seller's account is required.

Foreign citizens without a residence permit can open a special non-resident bank account, which allows them to conduct financial transactions. However, the process of paying for an apartment in Serbia is only permitted after submitting a preliminary application to the bank.

Transfer of funds

Buyers also have the option to transfer funds from an account located abroad directly to the seller's or developer's account. However, it is important to understand that such a transfer is subject to currency control, which may cause delays in the process.

Completion of the transaction at the notary's office

After successful payment at the bank, all parties – the buyer, seller, agent, translator, and witnesses – meet again at the notary's office to sign the clausula intabulandi. This document confirms the seller's consent to register the new owner in the cadastre without further involvement.

Checking the property when buying secondary housing

At the stage of inspecting the property, in the case of purchasing secondary housing, after the transaction is completed at the notary's office and the payment is made at the bank, the seller and buyer, with the agent present, sign the acceptance-transfer act. This act contains information about any possible defects in the property, if there are any, and also establishes deadlines for their rectification.

The document usually also includes a list of furniture and appliances that will be transferred along with the property, which is especially important when purchasing a furnished apartment.

Quality of the new building

When purchasing a new building, the quality of the housing is certified by a "construction permit" issued for the construction. After all work is completed and technical acceptance is done, a "residential permit" is issued, which grants the right to move in. Usually, the warranty for the completed work is two years, allowing buyers to approach the deal with confidence and hope for the stability and prosperity of their future investments.

Conclusion

There are quite a few stages in this process, and each of them requires special attention and a professional approach.

Registration of property rights

The registration of property rights for real estate plays a very significant role and includes the process of obtaining a certificate of ownership, known as the property list or vlasnički list, in the state cadastre. Completing this stage usually takes about 30 days after signing all the necessary documents and fulfilling financial obligations. Moreover, for user convenience, this certificate is available for download and printing on the official cadastre website, which greatly simplifies the process.

Remote real estate purchase

If you are planning to purchase real estate remotely, it is quite possible with the help of a notarized power of attorney. It is very important that such a document covers the full range of necessary actions, including:

  • financial operations;
  • interaction with tax authorities;
  • work with utility services.

The translation of the power of attorney must be carried out only by a qualified translator into Serbian.

Additional expenses when purchasing

When buying real estate, it's important not to forget about additional costs that may arise during the process. One of these expenses is the property transfer tax. The taxpayer is required to submit a declaration within 10 working days after signing the contract, and the declaration must contain all the necessary information.

For the secondary market, a tax on the transfer of absolute rights (porez na prenos apsolutnih prava) is set at2.5%from the market value of the property specified in the contract. In the case of new buildings, value-added tax (VAT) is applied, which amounts to10%If we are talking about buying a garage, the tax rate can reach20%.

State duties and fees

We should not forget about the state duty and the fees that need to be paid when adding a new owner to the real estate register. These fees range from0.01%to0.05%from the cost of the object.

Realtor commission in Serbia

As for the real estate agents' commission in Serbia, it usually amounts to2%from the transaction amount for the buyer and also2%for the seller. This is standard practice for most agencies, covering approximately90%For example, if the value of the property is€200,000the buyer will actually be paying€200,000plus€4,000commissions, which will amount to a total of€204,000In turn, after deducting their commission, the seller will receive in hand€196,000.

Rare cases of charging a fee

In rare cases, a commission may be charged only to the seller. This happens when the property is considered an investment by the investor or if the agency has exclusive rights to sell such property. Additionally, within the contractual obligations between the agency and the client, a minimum commission may be established, which is usually within the range of€500to€1000It's relatively unpredictable, but it can happen in cases where the value of the property falls below a certain amount, even though the workload for the agent remains the same.

For example, if the price of the property is€30,000The standard commission can be€600...but the contract may specify a minimum amount of...€750.

Commissions in the rental market

In the rental market, the commission for realtors also varies and usually ranges from50%to100%From the monthly rent for both the tenant and the apartment owner. Keeping track of all financial expenses and obligations during real estate transactions is a key aspect for successfully buying or renting a home in Serbia.

Payment for legal services

As part of standard practice, the lawyer's fee for legal services is usually included in the agency's overall budget. However, the client has the option to contact the lawyer directly, bypassing intermediaries, or to request a more thorough review.

For such a service, you may need to pay an amount in the range of0.05%to1%The costs of acquiring real estate. The approximate rates for legal services are as follows:

  • Checking the documents for the property of interest, including verification of authenticity and the presence of encumbrances, will cost approximately €150.
  • Preparing the sales contract will cost between €50 and €100.
  • The cost of consulting services ranges from €30 to €50 per session.

Participation of a notary

The participation of a notary in real estate transactions is mandatory. The average cost of their services for certifying a purchase and sale agreement for an apartment is approximately1%The cost of the object should also be taken into account. Additionally, the translator's fee, which may be needed at the stage of signing the agreement and during the translation of documents, should be considered. The usual rate for a translator's work is around €60 per hour, and the process of signing the contract typically takes between 40 minutes to 1 hour.

When it comes to written translation, the cost ranges from €12 to €15 per page.

Buying rural property in Serbia

When purchasing rural real estate in Serbia, it is important to be aware of the specifics of the local market. In this country, several forms of property ownership are distinguished, including:

  • Individual property(full ownership of the object);
  • Joint ownershipThe shares between the owners are not established.
  • Shared ownership (specific ownership shares are indicated).

The procedure for the transaction in these cases is largely similar; however, when purchasing joint ownership or a share, the consent of all co-owners is mandatory.

In-demand areas and real estate properties

As for popular areas and real estate, despite the demographic decline affecting many regions of Serbia,Belgradecontinues to actively develop. This stimulates the growth of interest in housing. In 2023, the share of foreign buyers in the Serbian market increased to4.81%that is significantly larger compared to2.93%in 2022.

Foreign investors are particularly interested in Belgrade and its surroundings, as well asNew Garden.

In-demand properties

Among the sought-after properties for foreign clients in the above-average price segment are new apartments, especially those located in prestigious residential complexes in Belgrade. For those with budget constraints, options for apartments in older buildings on the outskirts of the capital can be considered.

By the end of 2023, the average price of secondary housing in Belgrade was€2,070per square meter, while in new buildings this figure is equal to€2,360per square meter. In Novi Sad, the prices are€1,935for square meter on the secondary market and€1,890for square meter in new projects.

Recent events

In light of recent events, such as the announcement of an international exhibition."Expo 2027"In Belgrade, there is a rise in housing prices in the city, which further enhances the region's appeal to potential buyers.

Conclusion

Anyone considering buying real estate in Serbia faces numerous questions and nuances that need to be taken into account. In our article, we have tried to cover the main aspects in detail, such as the rights and obligations of foreign buyers, finding property, as well as important stages of the transaction and possible additional costs. Furthermore, we discussed the laws that simplify the process of obtaining a residence permit in the country, which can be a significant advantage for those planning to relocate.

Serbia is becoming increasingly attractive to foreign investors, and this is no coincidence. Not onlylow real estate prices, but alsoavailable conditions for obtaining a residence permitThey create interesting opportunities for long-term residence. Citizens of many countries, including Russia and other post-Soviet republics, can acquire real estate without significant obstacles, which highlights the reciprocity in the right to purchase.

It's important to consider:

  • Thorough research of the real estate market.
  • The use of services from qualified realtors.
  • Understanding all stages of the deal and potential additional costs.

However, as practice shows, it is still important to carefully research the market and pay attention to the details. Using the services of qualified realtors will significantly simplify the process of searching and securing all the necessary documents. Closing the deal is not the final point; it is just the beginning of a journey to a new life in Serbia. Don't forget about the possibility of obtaining Serbian citizenship, which opens up new horizons for you and your loved ones.

Thus, I hope that the material presented was useful to you and helped you understand the key aspects related to purchasing real estate in Serbia. If you have any additional questions or need assistance in finding suitable property, feel free to reach out to professionals. The real estate market offers many interesting options, and you will definitely find something that meets your requirements and expectations.

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