Buying property in Serbia as a foreigner: what a lawyer checks

Who can buy, which documents matter, how payment should follow registration and the checks that protect you before you sign.

Serbia attracts foreign buyers with property prices, growing cities like Novi Sad and Belgrade, and a straightforward purchase process. Straightforward does not mean risk-free. This is what we check for clients before they sign.

Can you buy?

Foreign individuals and companies can acquire property in Serbia, generally subject to reciprocity with their country of origin and to rules on specific types of land, such as agricultural land. We confirm what applies to you before you commit.

The title deed

The extract from the cadastre (list nepokretnosti) shows who owns the property, its size and use, and any mortgages, annotations of disputes or other encumbrances. We also review the registration history and compare the registered state with reality.

Building status

Many buildings in Serbia were built or extended without full permits. A building in legalisation proceedings can be harder to resell or mortgage. We check permits and legalisation status.

Contract and payment

Purchase contracts are certified by a public notary. We draft the contract so that the purchase price is protected, for example through staged payment or escrow, until your ownership is registered.

After the purchase

We handle registration in the cadastre and explain the tax obligations that follow, such as property transfer tax and annual property tax.

It all starts with a conversation.

Tell us briefly what it is about. We will get back to you and arrange a time, at our office or online.

Book a consultation
Call
+381 21 422 902 +381 66 427 287
Write
adv.miljus@gmail.com
Visit
Miloša Bajića 13 21000 Novi Sad Get directions