When you see a property for sale in Budapest that you wish to buy you may have some questions regarding the purchase. Many buyers have asked the same questions as you are asking yourself now. Find some of the most asked questions and answers below or feel free to ask a question in the form at the bottom of the page. We will get back to you with your answer as soon as we can.
Are there restrictions on non-Hungarians buying property in Budapest?
If you hold an EU passport then there is no restriction on you when buying a property for sale in Budapest. For non-EU passport holders, you will be required to apply for a permit to buy. This is almost always granted and is seen by most as a formality. To find out more about this simple process contact us for a quick chat.
Are properties in Budapest leasehold or freehold?
Generally, centrally located properties for sale in Budapest are all freehold. There are exceptions to the rule though with some properties in the 1st District (Castle area) being leasehold and also being subject to some buying restrictions. Your lawyer will advise you on each individual property’s status.
Are there hidden costs when buying property in Budapest?
There are no hidden costs when buying a property in Budapest. You will need to factor into your purchase price the cost of your legal fees, which is around 1% of the purchase price, and a 4% stamp duty which is paid directly to the government a couple of months after the completion of your purchase.
If you sell a property and then buy another within one year the stamp duty will be based on the difference in value and not the full value of the property.
What about capital gains tax if I make a profit on a property when I sell?
In 2008 the Hungarian Government revised the way capital gains tax is calculated, which has made things much simpler. After owning your property for five years there will be no capital gains tax due on any profit you make. The first of these years is classed as a whole or part of the calendar year when your purchase was completed
You can calculate the rates using the following table:
1st Year 15% x 100% = 15% (or part of the year)
2nd Year 15% x 100% = 15%
3rd Year 15% x 90% = 13.5%
4th Year 15% x 60% = 9%
5th Year 15% x 30% = 4.5%
6th Year = 0%
Will I need to set up a company when buying?
An individual is allowed to purchase a property in Hungary without setting up a company.
You can set up a company to purchase property in Hungary, this can be a Hungarian company or a foreign one, however, this is not necessary.
Do I need a Hungarian bank account?
You do not need to have a Hungarian bank account to buy a property here. You may find one useful though for the payment of bills etc. It is a simple process to open an account and most of the larger branches have English speakers working there. You will need to take your passport with you when opening the account. We can advise you on where to go when you are here in Budapest.
What is the best way to finance a property purchase in Budapest?
There are mainly two options regarding applying for mortgages in Hungary:
Option 1:
If you are employed as an employee with a monthly salary in Hungary or abroad, you can get a retail/personal loan from a bank.
If you choose this option, it is likely that you will need a deposit of 30-50% of the purchase price. This amount can be paid by three methods of payment: via cash, bank transfer, or a combination of cash and bank transfer.
Option 2:
If you are not employed and you do not have a monthly salary, or you do not qualify as an employee you can apply for a corporate loan.
This rule applies also if you need to borrow a larger amount than half of the purchase price, but not more than a maximum of 70% (and a maximum of 100,000,00 HUF) of the purchase price.
It means that you will be required to set up a Hungarian company and this company will buy a property.