The True Cost of Foreign Property Ownership: What the Listing Price Hides

Purchase costs arrive first. From one market to another, the costs may cover transfer tax or stamp duty, notarial charges, registry costs, legal fees and the agent’s commission. As a rough planning figure, budget a noticeable share above the purchase price, then check the exact local rates.

Annual property for sale in nessebar taxes follow. The rates vary enormously, and some countries apply a separate rate houses for sale in begur non-residents. Where the property sits empty most of the time, extra charges sometimes apply.

Community fees are often overlooked. A unit in a development with a swimming pool, an elevator and a concierge carries recurring costs that keep coming whether you are there or not. Request the last two or three years of accounts before signing, and check on any planned major works.

Distance creates costs that local owners never see. A caretaker needs to handle keys for emergencies, accept letters and bills, and sutomore real estate arrange the work of contractors. A management company normally charges a share of rental income, and doing without it often becomes costly in the long run.

Insurance, running costs and the cost of selling round out the picture. Capital gains tax can apply when a non-resident sells, and the resident rate is not always the one that applies. A good discipline involves building a five-year running-cost estimate before making an offer — the result is usually higher than expected.

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *