Bulgaria — Property: Buying Process

Key facts

• Only deeds made before a notary or bearing a notarised signature can be entered in the Property Register.
• A party, representative or heir files a written application at the registry counter with the deed, any power of attorney, and proof of the state fee payment.
• A power of attorney must be an original with a notarised signature, or a lawyer's power of attorney, and must be express and limited to the specific deed.
• Where the area has an approved cadastral map, a cadastral sketch copy must be attached; sketches are generally valid for six months, and tax assessment certificates are valid until 30 June.
• At least three copies are filed; the minimum registration fee is EUR 5.11 (BGN 10) and is non-refundable if the application is refused.
• Extra copies bearing the registration notes are returned within three days of filing and certified copies are ready the next working day.

Steps

1. Contract Signing — Review and sign the purchase contract with the seller.
2. Registration — Submit necessary documents to the local municipality for property registration.
3. Property Transfer Tax — Pay 2% of the transaction value as property transfer tax.