Hungary allows EU and non-EU citizens to purchase residential property, but the process differs from what most foreigners are used to. Understanding the legal, tax and practical framework before you start will save you time, money and surprises.
Who can buy property in Hungary?
EU citizens can purchase residential property in Hungary without restrictions. Non-EU citizens can also buy, but require a permit from the county government (területileg illetékes kormányhivatal), which in practice is almost always granted for residential purchases and takes 30–60 days.
The purchase process step by step
- Find the property and agree on price
- Sign a preliminary contract (előszerződés) and pay a deposit (typically 10%)
- Lawyer carries out title search and drafts the sale contract
- Sign the final contract before a Hungarian notary or lawyer
- Pay the remaining purchase price and transfer taxes
- Register the ownership change at the land registry (földhivatal) — takes 30–90 days
"Always use a Hungarian lawyer for property purchases. The fee (typically 0.5–1% of the purchase price) is one of the best investments you can make."
Taxes and costs
The main tax on purchase is the property transfer tax (visszterhes vagyonátruházási illeték), set at 4% of the purchase price. Additionally, budget for legal fees (0.5–1%), land registry fees (around 6,600 HUF) and real estate agent fees if applicable (typically 2–3%).
Post-acquisition strategy
Once you own the property, the most common strategies for foreign investors are: long-term rental to expats or locals, short-term rental via Airbnb or Booking (subject to local regulations in Budapest), or renovation and resale. Constroleum can support all three strategies with renovation, project management and local knowledge.
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