Cost Calculator 2026: What Fees Are Paid When Buying Property?

Cost Calculator 2026: What fees are paid when buying property and who pays them?

Planning a budget for a new home doesn't end with the agreed price with the seller. Buyers often forget about the so-called additional costs in property transactions, which can reach between 4% and 6% of the transaction value.

In this article, we'll examine in detail all notary fees, local taxes, and bank costs for 2026, so you're financially prepared.

Main costs in property transactions

When transferring real estate in Bulgaria, three main state and municipal fees are paid. They are calculated on the material interest (the higher value between the sale price and the tax assessment).

1. Local Tax (Acquisition Tax)

This is the largest expense. Its amount is determined individually by each municipality.

• For Sofia: 3%
• For Plovdiv: 3%
• For Varna: 3%
• For Burgas: 3%

(Note: Values are current as of 2025/2026, but always check for updates in the specific municipality).

2. Notary Fee

It is determined by the Tariff for Notary Fees under the Notaries and Notarial Activity Act. The fee is regressive – the higher the price, the lower the percentage, but the amount increases.

3. Registration Fee

Paid to the Registry Agency. It is fixed at 0.1% of the material interest, but not less than 10 BGN.

Who pays the fees when buying property?

According to Art. 186 of the Obligations and Contracts Act (ЗЗД), the costs of the sale are divided equally between the parties, unless otherwise agreed.

In practice however:

• In 90% of cases in Bulgaria, the buyer pays all fees (local tax, notary fee, and registration fee).
• If the property is purchased through a broker, each party usually pays their commission to their agency.

Close-up of a notary public stamping a legal document, gold seal, official atmosphere, high-end office furniture in the background, professional photography style