Retire in Europe

Personalized Property Finder

This section provides links to property portals and information on the buying process in each country. Click a country name to expand or collapse its details.

Property Search Websites

Buying Process Overview

Spain requires a NIE number, typically a 10% deposit, and notarial services to finalize the purchase. Expect approximately 8–10% in taxes and fees.

Key Steps
  1. Obtain a NIE (Foreigner's Identification Number).
  2. Negotiate purchase price and sign a reservation contract.
  3. Hire a lawyer/notary to review the property deed.
  4. Pay property transfer tax or VAT, depending on new or resale property.
  5. Finalize at the notary; register the property at the land registry.
Helpful Tips
  • Use an independent lawyer who speaks your language.
  • Budget for property transfer tax (6-10% in most regions).
  • Consider a bank account in Spain to handle utilities and taxes.

Property Search Websites

Buying Process Overview

Foreigners can buy property in Portugal with few restrictions. Taxes and fees are approximately 6–8%.

Key Steps
  1. Obtain a Portuguese fiscal number (NIF).
  2. Sign a promissory contract (Contrato de Promessa de Compra e Venda).
  3. Notarial deed and land registration to finalize.
  4. Pay IMT (property transfer tax) and stamp duty.
Helpful Tips
  • Check if Golden Visa eligibility applies if investment is large enough.
  • Have a local lawyer verify property’s registration and debts.
  • Set aside funds for ongoing property tax (IMI).

Property Search Websites

Buying Process Overview

Foreigners can purchase property in Italy; the process involves a proposal, preliminary contract, and final deed. Taxes and fees range from 7–10%.

Key Steps
  1. Submit a written offer (Proposta d'acquisto) with a small deposit.
  2. Sign a preliminary contract (Compromesso) and pay a 10–20% deposit.
  3. Conduct due diligence, including title search and surveys.
  4. Sign the final deed (Rogito) in front of a notary and pay remaining balance.
  5. Register the property in the new owner's name.
Helpful Tips
  • Hire a bilingual lawyer to navigate legal documents.
  • Be aware of additional costs like notary fees and agent commissions.
  • Consider the implications of property taxes and maintenance fees.

Property Search Websites

Buying Process Overview

Foreigners from the EU can purchase property in Croatia with few restrictions; others may need approval. Taxes and fees are approximately 5–6%.

Key Steps
  1. Obtain a personal identification number (OIB).
  2. Sign a sales contract and pay a deposit (usually 10%).
  3. Apply for approval from the Ministry of Justice (if required).
  4. Pay real estate transfer tax (3% of property value).
  5. Register the property in the land registry.
Helpful Tips
  • Engage a local lawyer to ensure clear property titles.
  • Be aware of coastal property restrictions for non-EU buyers.
  • Consider the costs of property maintenance and utilities.

Property Search Websites

Buying Process Overview

Foreigners can freely purchase property in France. The process involves a preliminary contract and a cooling-off period. Taxes and fees are approximately 7–8% for existing properties.

Key Steps
  1. Make an offer on the property, often through a 'Compromis de Vente' (preliminary contract).
  2. Undergo a 10-day cooling-off period after signing the preliminary contract.
  3. Arrange financing and conduct property surveys if desired.
  4. Sign the final deed ('Acte de Vente') in the presence of a notary.
  5. Pay associated taxes and fees, including notary fees and registration duties.
Helpful Tips
  • Engage a bilingual notary to ensure understanding of all legal documents.
  • Be aware of the 'Frais de Notaire' (notary fees), which include various taxes and typically amount to 7–8% of the purchase price.
  • Consider the implications of French inheritance laws, which can affect property succession.

Property Search Websites

Buying Process Overview

Foreigners can purchase property in Greece; the process involves legal checks, a preliminary agreement, and final contract. Taxes and fees are approximately 7–10%.

Key Steps
  1. Obtain a Greek tax registry number (AFM).
  2. Open a Greek bank account for financial transactions.
  3. Hire a lawyer to conduct due diligence on the property's legal status.
  4. Sign a preliminary agreement and pay a deposit (usually 10%).
  5. Sign the final contract in the presence of a notary and pay the remaining amount.
  6. Register the property with the Land Registry or Cadastre.
Helpful Tips
  • Ensure the property has all necessary building permits and is free of legal issues.
  • Be aware of additional costs, including legal fees, notary fees, and property transfer tax (approximately 3%).
  • Consider the location carefully, as some areas may have restrictions on foreign ownership.
Disclaimer: We only provide these links and information as a reference. We do not endorse or control the content on external real estate websites. Consult a local legal professional before purchasing property abroad.