​​1. Real estate fees in Croatia

The typical commission for a real estate agent in Croatia is 3% of the property's sale price, plus VAT. This fee is only paid if the purchase goes through, and it’s usually agreed upon when you first view properties.

​

2. Legal fees for buying property Croatia

Hiring a lawyer is highly recommended to ensure the entire transaction process is handled correctly. Legal fees generally range from 1% to 1.5% of the property price, plus VAT. Lawyers review all property documentation (e.g., land registry, ownership certificates, building permits), draft purchase contracts, and guide you through the legal process. Some real estate agencies may provide an in-house lawyer for a reduced fee.

​

3. Property transfer tax Croatia

The property transfer tax in Croatia is 3% of the purchase price, paid by the buyer. However, if you're purchasing a newly built property or a property subject to VAT, this tax may be exempt or replaced with a 25% VAT on the purchase price. Note that VAT applies if you intend to use the property for commercial purposes, such as vacation rentals, which may also allow you to reclaim the VAT.

​

4. Croatian notary fees

Notary and court fees are relatively low compared to other European countries. The notary’s fee for verifying signatures and registering ownership is around 200 HRK (approximately 30 EUR). Court fees for pre-registration and registration of ownership rights are also included, typically not exceeding 200 EUR. If any additional formalities or deposits are required, the cost will vary.

​

5. Other Costs to Consider

• Permission from the Ministry of Justice: If you're a non-EU citizen, you'll need to obtain permission from the Ministry of Justice to purchase property in Croatia. This usually costs around 70 HRK (approximately 10 EUR).

• Translator Fees: If necessary, you may also need to hire a translator, with fees ranging from 500 HRK (approximately 70 EUR) for translations.

• Obtaining a Croatian OIB (personal identification number): If you don’t already have a Croatian OIB, you’ll need to obtain one, which can involve a fee if you hire someone to handle the process for you.

​

6. Company Registration Fees (If Buying Through a Croatian Company)

If you’re purchasing property through a Croatian company, there are additional fees involved in setting up the company:

• Public notary fee: Around 500 EUR.

• Founding capital: Around 2,800 EUR, which can be withdrawn after the company is registered.

• Monthly bookkeeping fees: About 150 EUR.

• Annual company tax: Around 150 EUR.
  Alternatively, you can opt for a J.D.O.O. (simple limited liability company), which has no founding capital requirement and can be registered in as little as two days.

​

7. Hidden costs Croatia property

• Bank Financing: If you're financing the purchase with a bank loan, you’ll incur additional costs such as real estate appraisals, loan approval fees, and mandatory insurance. Notary fees for formalizing the loan contract are also applicable.

• Translation Costs: If you'd like to have contracts and documentation translated into your native language, expect to pay around 300 EUR for translation services.

Example Cost Breakdown

To give you a clearer picture, here are two examples of how the costs of buying property in Croatia can add up:

Example 1: Purchasing a House in Opatija

• Property Price: 940,000 EUR

• Property Transfer Tax (3%): 28,200 EUR

• Agency Fee (3% + VAT): 35,250 EUR

• Legal Fees (1% + VAT): 11,750 EUR

• Notary & Court Fees: 200 EUR

• Total Additional Costs: 75,400 EUR

• Total Investment: 1,015,400 EUR

Example 2: Purchasing an Apartment in Rovinj

• Property Price (Including VAT): 620,000 EUR

• Agency Fee (3% + VAT): 23,250 EUR

• Legal Fees (1% + VAT): 7,750 EUR

• Notary & Court Fees: 200 EUR

• Total Additional Costs: 31,200 EUR

• Total Investment: 651,200 EUR

​

Conclusion

When buying property in Croatia, it's essential to budget not only for the property's sale price but also for the various associated costs. By understanding these fees in advance, you can make more informed decisions and ensure a smooth and successful purchase. Whether you're a foreign investor or a first-time buyer, Croatia offers fantastic opportunities, and with the right legal and financial advice, your investment could pay off in the long run.

​

If you’re considering purchasing property in Croatia, feel free to reach out! I specialize in helping foreign investors navigate the process, from finding turnkey properties to managing them remotely.