Buying costs in Serbia: what you pay on top of the price
Pick a country, enter the price and see each tax and fee with its low and high amount. Every figure comes from our published buying guide for that country.
- Transfer tax — Resale: 2.5%; New build: Varies, ask your lawyer. On the value assessed by the Tax Administration, which can be above the contract price. Our guide gives it for resale only.
- VAT on new builds — New build: Included in the price. 10% VAT, included in the listed price.
- Notary — €200–€500. The contract must be executed before a Serbian public notary.
- Lawyer — €500–€1,500. Non-negotiable for foreign buyers.
- Land registry — Varies, ask your lawyer. Your lawyer registers the contract with the Real Estate Cadastre; our guide gives no fee.
- Agent fee — 2%–4%. If using an agent.
- Translator / interpreter — Varies, ask your lawyer. A certified translator must be present if you do not speak Serbian; our guide gives no fee.
Our guide's own total: ~5–12% of purchase price
This is an estimate based on our guides, not legal or tax advice. Rates change and depend on the property; confirm every figure with a local lawyer before you buy.
Read the full Serbia buying guide · Homes for sale in Serbia
Questions
How is the transfer tax calculated in Serbia?
Transfer tax of 2.5% is calculated on the value assessed by the Serbian Tax Administration, not always on the price written in the contract, so budget for a slightly higher base if the assessed value exceeds your purchase price.
Is there VAT on new builds?
Yes: 10% on a new build from a developer, included in the listed price.
What do buying costs add up to?
Total additional costs come to ~5–12% of purchase price.
Do I need a translator?
The final sale contract must be executed before a Serbian public notary. If you do not speak Serbian, a certified translator must be present.