The cost of buying property in Hungary: taxes & fees
Understanding the costs associated with buying property in Hungary is vital for making informed financial decisions. In addition to the property price, there are one-off purchase costs, as well as recurring expenses for ownership.
This guide outlines these costs, providing general estimates based on typical market conditions. Always consult with a qualified local lawyer or accountant to confirm specifics.
One-off Purchase Costs
When buying property in Hungary, you should expect various one-off costs. These typically include transfer tax, notary fees, and legal fees.
Transfer tax varies based on the property price; a general range is around 4% to 6% of the purchase price. Notary and registration fees are usually around €200 to €500 for a standard transaction. Legal fees can range from 1% to 2% of the purchase price.
Estimate of Total Purchase Costs
Overall, you might budget approximately 8% to 10% of the property price for all one-off costs combined, including the transfer tax and associated fees.
For a typical property price of €400,000, this could total around €32,000 to €40,000 in additional costs.
Recurring Ownership Costs
Once you own property in Hungary, expect recurring costs such as annual property tax, community or condominium fees, and utility bills.
Annual property tax tends to be relatively low, usually around 0.1% to 1% of the property value, depending on the municipality.
Typical Recurring Expenses
Community fees can vary widely, ranging from €50 to €300 per month for shared amenities. Utility costs—such as electricity, water, and gas—should be budgeted as well, approximately €100 to €300 per month depending on usage and location.
Home insurance is advisable and can range from €100 to €300 annually.
Costs for Non-Residents
If you're a non-resident planning to finance your property with a mortgage, be aware that terms may differ from those for residents. Mortgages are available but often have stricter requirements and higher interest rates.
It's advisable to consult a local mortgage advisor and be prepared for potentially larger deposits.
A Worked Example
For a property priced at €400,000, estimating your total purchase costs: Transfer tax (approx. 5%): €20,000; Notary fees: €400; Legal fees (approx. 1.5%): €6,000. This totals approximately €26,400 in one-off costs, bringing the overall budget to around €426,400.
Recurring costs thereafter would include property tax (let's say €400), community fees (around €150 per month or €1,800 annually), and utilities.
Conclusion
In Hungary, owners should anticipate both a significant one-off cost at purchase and ongoing costs for ownership. These estimates can vary depending on the property's location and are subject to periodic changes by local authorities.
Always verify current tax rates and fees with official sources and seek local expert advice.
Frequently asked questions
What is the transfer tax when buying property in Hungary?
The transfer tax typically ranges from 4% to 6% of the purchase price, varying by property value.
How much should I budget for legal fees when buying property?
Legal fees generally range from 1% to 2% of the purchase price.
Are there ongoing costs after purchasing a property?
Yes, expect annual property taxes, community fees, utilities, and insurance costs.
Can non-residents get a mortgage in Hungary?
Yes, non-residents can obtain mortgages, but terms may be less favourable than for residents.
What is a typical range for annual property tax in Hungary?
Annual property tax is usually around 0.1% to 1% of the property value, depending on the municipality.
This guide is general information, not legal, tax or immigration advice. Rules change — verify the current position with official sources and a qualified professional before acting. Last reviewed September 2026.