Buying in Bulgaria

Taxes and fees

• Notary fees: typically 0.1% of the property value, plus a small registration fee.
• Property transfer tax: around 2–3% of the declared transaction value (varies by municipality).
• Legal fees: usually €500–€1,500 depending on complexity; always use an independent Bulgarian lawyer.
• Agent commission: commonly 3% from the buyer and/or seller — confirm before making an offer.
• Annual local tax (danak imushestvo): a small municipal property tax, often under €200 per year for apartments.
• Non-resident buyers may need to open a Bulgarian bank account for the transaction. Currency is typically EUR.

Legal checks

• Title deed (tapi): confirm the seller is the registered owner and the property is free of encumbrances.
• Cadastral map: verify boundaries match the physical property, especially for land and rural houses.
• Building permits: for newer builds, check planning permission and Act 16 (certificate of habitation).
• Utility debts: ensure no outstanding bills for electricity, water or communal charges.
• Company ownership: if buying from a company, your lawyer should verify corporate standing and authority to sell.
• Never sign documents you do not understand. Use a lawyer who speaks English and is registered with the Bulgarian Bar.

Property ownership

• EU citizens (including UK buyers post-Brexit under bilateral arrangements) can own buildings and apartments freely.
• Non-EU citizens may own buildings but land ownership can require establishing a Bulgarian company — your lawyer will advise.
• Freehold ownership is standard. Leasehold is rare for residential property.
• Co-ownership (idealna chast) is common in apartment blocks — you own your unit plus a share of common areas.
• All transfers must be notarised and registered with the Registry Agency (Agenzia po vpisvaniyata).

UK buyer guidance

• You do not need to be resident in Bulgaria to buy property. Many UK buyers purchase for holidays, retirement or investment.
• Use a UK-based solicitor experienced in Bulgarian property alongside a local Bulgarian lawyer.
• Transfer funds via a reputable currency provider — avoid carrying large cash amounts.
• Consider inheritance and tax implications in both the UK and Bulgaria; seek cross-border tax advice for investments.
• Bulgaria is an EU member with a stable legal framework for property rights, though processes differ from England & Wales.
• Our UK support line can help with platform questions; legal and tax advice should come from qualified professionals.

Frequently asked questions

Common questions from UK and international buyers.