Full Cost Guide of Owning Property in Croatia

🏠 Ongoing Property Costs in Croatia:

What Foreign Buyers Should Know

If you're planning to buy property in Croatia—whether it's a seaside villa, city apartment, or vacation rental—it’s essential to understand the true cost of property ownership. Beyond the purchase price and property transfer tax, owning Croatian real estate includes several fixed and variable expenses. Here’s a breakdown of the key costs, average prices, and what to expect as a foreign buyer.

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1. 🔌 Household Utilities in Croatia

Once you’ve purchased your home, you'll need to transfer utility bills into your name. Monthly utility costs vary by region and property size:

• Electricity: €40–€100/month (based on usage)

• Water: €15–€40/month + ~€50/year for water management fees

• Gas: €20–€60/month (if connected to city gas network)

• Waste Disposal: €10–€20/month

• Communal Fee (Komunalna Naknada): ~€100–€300/year depending on location and property type

💡 Tip: Some areas charge more for utilities during peak tourist seasons, especially coastal towns.

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2. 📺 Internet, TV & Phone

Even if you're just using the property part-time, expect to pay:

• HRT Public TV License: €10/month (mandatory if you own a TV)

• Internet & Phone: €15–€35/month for unlimited home Wi-Fi (packages often include mobile plans)

• Cable/Satellite TV: €5–€20/month (optional)

Many providers like A1, T-Com, and Telemach offer bundled packages.

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3. 💶 Mortgage or Loan Repayments

If you're financing your real estate investment in Croatia, typical mortgage terms depend on your residency, income, and bank policies.

• Monthly Repayments: Range widely; for a €150,000 loan, expect €500–€800/month

• Interest Rates: Around 3–5% for foreigners, depending on fixed vs. variable terms

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4. 🏢 Pričuva (Apartment Reserve Fund)

If you own an apartment in a residential building, you're required to pay a monthly contribution toward maintenance of shared spaces.

• Typical Rate: ~€0.36 per m²/month
  (e.g., a 70 m² apartment = €25/month)

Covers repairs, stairwell cleaning, roof maintenance, and insurance for communal areas.

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5. 🛠 Indoor Appliance & System Maintenance

Ongoing maintenance is essential for long-term property value:

• Boiler or Heater Servicing: €50–€100/year

• Appliance Repairs (fridge, washer, A/C): €30–€80 per visit

• Chimney Cleaning: €25–€50 annually (mandatory in some areas)

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6. 🧼 House Cleaning Services

Professional cleaning (great for rentals or second homes):

• Standard Cleaning: €7–€10/hour

• Deep/Post-Renovation Cleaning: €100–€250 per session

Local agencies (agencije za čišćenje) are widely available in cities and tourist towns.

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7. 🎨 Wall & Yard Maintenance

• Exterior Painting: €7–€12/m² (every 5–10 years)

• Gardening/Lawn Care: €50–€150/month (depending on lot size)

• Tree Trimming or Landscaping: €100–€500/year

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8. 🏡 Home Insurance in Croatia

While not legally required, home insurance is highly recommended.

• Basic Policies: €84–€150/year

• Comprehensive Coverage (fire, flood, theft, earthquake): €200–€500/year depending on location, size, and coverage

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9. 🚗 Parking Costs

• House with Driveway/Garage: Usually included

• Apartment in City Center: May need to purchase/rent space

  • Monthly Rent: €30–€100

  • Purchase Price: €5,000–€15,000

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10. 💼 Taxes for Renting Out Property in Croatia

If you plan to rent your property to tourists or as a vacation home, consider the following:

• Vacation Home Tax (Porez na kuće za odmor): ~€1–€2/m² annually

• Rental Income Tax: ~10% flat rate + surtaxes (varies by region)

• Tourist Registration: Required with the eVisitor system

Non-EU citizens often form a Croatian company (d.o.o.) to handle rentals legally and efficiently.

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✅ Final Thoughts: Plan Ahead for a Smart Investment

Owning a home in Croatia is more affordable than in many other EU countries, but proper budgeting is key. Whether you're a retiree, investor, or remote worker, being aware of these property ownership costs will help you manage your investment effectively.

Need expert help navigating the costs, laws, and logistics?
📩 Contact Breeza Abroad — We guide international buyers through every step of purchasing and managing property in Croatia.