How long does the whole purchase usually take?

Once the property is chosen and the purchase price is available, the whole process can usually be completed within a few weeks — normally in no more than 1 to 1.5 months. The exact timing depends on the terms of the contract and on the handover date.

May a German or other EU citizen buy property in Hungary?

Yes. As a rule, EU citizens may buy residential property in Hungary on the same terms as Hungarian nationals.

How much is the property transfer tax?

When buying residential property, the general transfer tax is 4% of the market value assessed by the Hungarian tax authority (NAV). In certain cases a reduction or an exemption may apply.

What additional costs should I expect beyond the purchase price?

Typically: property transfer tax, lawyer's fees, land registry and administrative charges, translation or interpreting, and the HomeAssist service fee.

Do I have to travel to Hungary for a viewing?

We recommend viewing the property in person. We arrange the appointment, accompany you on site, translate and help clarify every important question.

What is the lawyer's role in the purchase?

The lawyer checks the legal situation, draws up the sale contract, countersigns it and handles the required land registry procedure.

Buying a house in Hungary — a practical guide

Lower prices, more space and easy access from Austria. What to know about regions, the process and the real costs.

Buying a house in Hungary is an attractive option for many foreign buyers: lower prices, more floor area and larger plots, and short travel times from Austria and southern Germany.

Popular regions

Western Hungary — Sopron, Kőszeg, Szombathely, Mosonmagyaróvár; close to the Austrian border.
Lake Balaton — holiday home, investment or permanent residence; the north and south shores differ markedly.
Győr and surroundings — an economically strong city between Vienna and Budapest.
Thermal regions — Hévíz, Zalakaros, Bük, Sárvár.

What does it cost?

Prices vary widely by region, location, condition and fit-out. Beyond the price, budget for transfer tax, the lawyer, registry fees, translations and renovation.

Warning: a low purchase price does not make a cheap purchase. Roof, heating, wiring, plumbing and insulation are where the real money goes.

The process

Clarify your requirements
Shortlist properties
View them on site
Negotiate and make an offer
Legal checks and contract
Payment
Title transfer and handover

Never buy on photos or a translated listing alone.

Buying a house in Hungary

Popular regions

What does it cost?

The process

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