Frequently asked questions

An individual buying an apartment will usually need a valid passport. A notarised power of attorney is required if another person represents the buyer; additional declarations or documents may be needed depending on marital status, the payment method and the property. We confirm the exact document list after reviewing the specific transaction.

The owner pays annual municipal property tax and a household waste fee. The amount depends on the property’s tax assessment and the rules of the relevant municipality. A property in a managed complex may also have a separate contractual maintenance fee; this is not a tax.

As a general rule, a foreign buyer can acquire an apartment or another separately registered property unit. Additional rules apply to a house with land or to land purchased separately, depending on the buyer’s nationality, the type of land and other circumstances. The land ownership regime should therefore be checked before paying a deposit.

The usual stages are property selection and viewing, agreement of terms, a reservation agreement, legal checks, a preliminary contract where needed, payment and signing of the notarial deed followed by registration. A completed property with a full document set can close faster; financing, new construction or a remote transaction takes longer. Before reservation, we provide a clear transaction plan and timeline.

Yes. Many stages can be completed remotely, including a live video viewing, document review, contract approval and representation under a power of attorney. The power of attorney must meet Bulgarian requirements; a document issued abroad may require an apostille or legalisation and an official translation. We agree the remote transaction structure in advance.

In addition to the purchase price, buyers normally budget for local acquisition tax, the notary fee, the registration fee and bank charges, plus translation, legal services and the agreed agency commission where applicable. The total depends on the price and tax assessment, the municipality and the transaction structure. We provide an itemised estimate before documents are signed.

It pays for the upkeep of shared areas and facilities, such as cleaning, landscaping, a pool, security, lighting, lifts and other services depending on the development. Before buying, check the amount, calculation method, payment date, possible indexation and whether the seller has any outstanding balance.

Checks normally cover title and ownership history, consistency with cadastral records, mortgages, attachments and other encumbrances, the tax assessment, the seller’s authority, construction documents and permission for use where applicable. For a managed complex, the maintenance agreement and any outstanding balance should also be reviewed. The scope depends on the property type and construction stage.

Owning an apartment or house does not by itself automatically grant temporary or permanent residence or citizenship. Residence must be applied for separately under a legal ground that fits the applicant’s circumstances. We recommend obtaining current, case-specific immigration advice.

After ownership is registered, collect and retain the transaction documents, complete any required municipal formalities, transfer utility accounts and notify the management company if there is one. It is also sensible to review insurance and the deadlines for annual property tax and waste fees. We can prepare a property-specific post-completion checklist.