Romania

Real estate websites
STEPS
Check Eligibility
- Non-Residents: Foreigners can buy property in Romania, but non-EU/EEA nationals may be restricted from purchasing agricultural land. Additionally, foreign buyers must have a Romanian tax number (CNP) and must comply with local regulations.
- Financing: Non-residents can obtain financing from Romanian banks, though the process may require a larger down payment and proof of financial stability.
Determine the Budget
- Budgeting: It’s important to account for the property price, taxes, notary fees, registration fees, and other associated costs such as insurance and utilities.
- Mortgage: Romanian banks may offer mortgages to non-residents, typically providing up to 70-80% of the property’s value. Buyers should expect to cover the remaining 20-30% as a down payment.
Find a Property
- Online Search: Use property websites such as Imobiliare.ro, Storia.ro, and OLX.ro to find properties in Romania. You can filter by location, price, and other specifications.
- Real Estate Agents: It’s recommended to work with a local real estate agent (agent imobiliar) to assist with the search and negotiations.
View the Property
- Inspections: Before making an offer, arrange a property inspection to check the condition of the property, including its structure, electrical systems, plumbing, and other essential features.
- Visiting the Property: If you are unable to visit in person, you can hire someone locally to inspect the property or request a virtual tour.
Make an Offer
- Bidding: Once you’ve found a property you want to purchase, make an offer directly to the seller or via your real estate agent. The offer can be negotiated.
- Contract: When an offer is accepted, a preliminary contract (contract de vânzare-cumpărare) is signed, and a deposit (typically 10% of the purchase price) is paid.
Complete Legal Formalities
- Notary Role: In Romania, a notary (notar public) is required to finalize the property purchase. The notary will prepare the final sale deed and ensure the transaction is legally binding.
- Taxes and Fees: The buyer is responsible for taxes, including the Notary’s fees, registration fees, and other associated legal costs.
Register the Property
- Land Registry: After the sale is completed, the property must be registered with the Romanian Land Registry (Oficiul de Cadastru și Publicitate Imobiliară) to officially transfer ownership.
- Insurance: It’s recommended to obtain property insurance (asigurare de locuință) to cover potential risks like fire, flooding, or theft.
Move In
- Once the legal formalities are complete and the property is registered, you can move into your new property in Romania.
ADDITIONAL CONSIDERATIONS
- Legal Assistance: It’s advisable to seek legal assistance or hire a Romanian lawyer to ensure the legal process runs smoothly, especially when dealing with property laws and taxes.
- Taxes and Fees: Be prepared for taxes, notary fees, and other registration costs associated with the property purchase.
ADDITIONAL NOTICES
- Notary Role: A notary is essential in the property transaction in Romania. They verify that the transaction complies with the law and prepare the necessary documents for transfer of ownership.
- Mortgage Financing: Non-residents can obtain mortgages in Romania, but they typically need to make a larger down payment and prove financial stability.
- Land Purchase Restrictions: Non-EU nationals are restricted from buying agricultural land in Romania, and may face restrictions depending on the property location.

In Romania, real estate taxes are regulated by both the central government and local municipalities. The key types of taxes related to real estate in Romania include:

Property Ownership Tax

Property Tax (Impozit pe proprietate): Property tax in Romania is applied at the municipal level and applies to both residential and commercial properties.

  • The property tax rate is based on the property’s value, which is determined either through an official evaluation or based on the market value of the property.
  • The tax rate generally ranges from 0.08% to 0.2% of the property’s value for residential properties.
  • For commercial properties, the tax rate is typically higher, ranging from 0.2% to 1.5% of the property’s value.
  • The property tax is paid annually, and the responsibility lies with the property owner.
Real Estate Transfer Tax

The real estate transfer tax is applied when a property changes ownership, such as during a sale or inheritance.

  • The standard transfer tax rate is 3% of the property’s purchase price or the market value, whichever is higher.
  • There are some exemptions for properties transferred between direct family members, such as parents and children.
Capital Gains Tax on Real Estate

Capital gains tax applies when a property is sold at a profit, though exemptions may apply for primary residences under certain conditions.

  • The general capital gains tax rate is 10% on the profit made from the sale of the property (the difference between the sale price and purchase price).
  • If the property was owned for more than 3 years, capital gains tax may be reduced or eliminated under certain conditions, such as if the property was the primary residence.
  • If the property was used as a primary residence for at least 3 years, the sale may be exempt from capital gains tax.
Inheritance and Gift Tax

Romania imposes inheritance and gift taxes, though there are exemptions depending on the relationship between the donor and the recipient.

  • For close family members (spouse, children, parents), inheritance or gift taxes are generally exempt or subject to lower rates.
  • The tax rate increases with the value of the inheritance or gift and is based on a sliding scale.
  • If the inherited or gifted property is sold, capital gains tax may apply if the sale results in a profit.
Municipal Taxes

In addition to property tax, municipalities may impose additional local taxes or charges for certain types of real estate, such as for the use of public infrastructure or services.

Income Tax on Rental Income

If rental income is generated from real estate, it is subject to income tax in Romania.

  • Rental income is taxed as part of the overall personal income tax, with rates generally ranging from 10% to 16%, depending on the total income of the property owner.
  • Property owners can generally deduct related expenses, such as maintenance costs and property management fees, from their rental income for tax purposes.
Note: Tax rates and regulations can vary by municipality, and exemptions or reductions may apply based on specific circumstances. It is recommended to consult with local authorities or a tax professional for the most up-to-date and accurate information.
Official
Romania
CIOC
ROU
Subregion
Southeast Europe
Borders
BGR
HUN
MDA
SRB
UKR
Capital
Bucharest
Area
238 391 km²
Population
19 286 000
Timezones
UTC+02:00
Phone
+40   
Currencies
Romanian leu (RON lei)