Module 3: Taxes, Fees & Holding Costs

Foreign buyers consistently underestimate transaction and holding costs. Plan for roughly 6–8% on top of the purchase price as one-off costs.

One-off costs at purchase

• Title deed fee: 4% of declared value (often split 2%+2% between buyer and seller, but in practice usually paid in full by the buyer)
• VAT: 1%, 8% or 18% depending on size & type. Many new-build foreign buyers qualify for full VAT exemption (see Module 5)
• Notary, translator, valuation, DASK: ~€500–€1,200 total
• Lawyer: typically €1,000–€2,500

Annual holding costs

• Property tax: 0.1%–0.6% of registered value (residential property in cities is 0.2%)
• Aidat (HOA / site fee): €30–€150/month depending on amenities
• Utilities subscription fees at first connection: ~€300

On exit

Capital gains tax applies only if you sell within 5 years of purchase, on the gain above an annually indexed allowance. After 5 years, capital gains are 0%. This is one of the most generous regimes in the Mediterranean.

• Budget 6–8% on top of the purchase price for transaction costs
• New-build foreign buyers often qualify for full VAT exemption
• Annual property tax is typically 0.2% of registered value
• Capital gains tax drops to 0% after 5 years of ownership
• Aidat (HOA) is the single biggest recurring cost