Properties direct from owner in Istria

Citizens of EU member states can generally purchase property in Croatia under the same conditions as Croatian citizens. Swiss citizens may face additional requirements under reciprocity rules. Ask a Croatian lawyer to review your circumstances before you buy.

Commission-free means that the buyer does not pay an agency fee. This is usually the case with new build properties purchased directly from developers or in direct sales by private owners.

A 3% real estate transfer tax generally applies to resale properties. For qualifying new-build purchases from a developer, VAT is usually included in the price instead. Notary, legal, land registry and translation fees may also apply, as can an agency commission if agreed. Ask a qualified adviser to confirm the costs for the specific property.

Typical steps include obtaining a Croatian tax number (OIB), checking land registry, cadastral and building documents, signing a preliminary agreement and then the purchase contract, followed by registering ownership. An independent legal review is recommended before paying a deposit.

Holiday rentals may require registration with the relevant authority, property categorisation, guest reporting and payment of tourism and tax obligations. Rules can change, so check current requirements with the responsible authority or a tax adviser before you buy.

Buyers often use their own funds or arrange financing through a bank in their home country. Croatian banks may offer mortgages to non-residents subject to their own eligibility requirements. Discuss financing with your bank before signing a preliminary agreement.