The costs of buying a property, besides the price itself

What the bill is made of

Buyers rarely count anything beyond the price and the monthly payment. The rest surfaces at the notary and is almost always larger than expected.

Local acquisition tax

Paid to the municipality where the property sits, charged on whichever is higher: the agreed price or the tax valuation. The rate is set by each municipal council and differs, which is why the calculator asks for the municipality instead of using one national figure.

Notary fee

Set by tariff, rising in steps rather than proportionally: on a more expensive property the percentage falls. VAT is charged on top. The final amount is confirmed by the notary.

Registration fee

Paid to the Registry Agency, a small percentage of the material interest. The smallest line in the bill, but always present.

Commission

Not a state fee but market practice — usually between 2 and 3 percent. Who pays it and in what share is agreed in advance and written into the contract.

Buying with a mortgage

At least two more items appear: a valuation by a licensed appraiser and an arrangement fee from the bank. These differ considerably between banks.

Frequently asked questions

Who pays the costs when buying property?

By established practice the buyer pays the local tax, the notary fee and the registration fee. Commission depends on the agreement — in Bulgaria it is often split between the two sides.

Which value is the tax charged on?

On whichever is higher: the agreed price or the tax valuation. On older properties the tax valuation is sometimes above the price.

How much is the notary fee?

It follows a tariff and rises in steps rather than proportionally — on a more expensive property the percentage falls. VAT is charged on top.

Are there extra costs with a mortgage?

Yes. A valuation by a licensed appraiser and an arrangement or drawdown fee from the bank.