How to Sell Your Bulgarian Property: A Step-by-Step Guide

Selling property in Bulgaria is a well-regulated process that has undergone significant modernization. As of January 1, 2026, Bulgaria has officially joined the Eurozone, and new property laws have strengthened data protection and transaction security.

Step 1: Valuation and Agent Mandate

The first step is a professional valuation. Bulgarian property prices vary greatly between the “Black Sea Coast,” “Ski Resorts,” and urban centers like Sofia.

During this stage, your agent will:

• Assess the Property: Review the condition, location, and annual maintenance fees (crucial for apartment complexes).

• Sign the Mediation Agreement: Establish a commission (usually 3% to 5%).

• Check the Title Deed: Verify your Notarialen Akt (Notary Deed).

   

  2026 Update: Due to new privacy laws effective January 15, 2026, third parties can no longer freely pull copies of your deeds. You (the owner) must provide these or grant a specific Power of Attorney to your agent.

   

Step 2: Gathering the “Document Bundle”

In Bulgaria, the seller is responsible for providing a specific set of documents before a sale can proceed. In 2026, these must reflect Euro values:

• Tax Valuation Certificate (Udostoverenie za Danachna Otsenka): Issued by the local municipality, confirming all property taxes are paid. It must state that there are zero arrears.

• Cadastral Map Sketch (Skitsa): An official plan from the Geodesy, Cartography, and Cadastre Agency.

• Certificate of Encumbrances (Udostoverenie za Težesti): Proof from the Registry Agency that the property is free of mortgages, liens, or legal claims.

• Marital Status Declaration: You must prove your civil status at the time of purchase, as a spouse may have legal rights to the property even if not named on the deed.

Step 3: Marketing and Viewings

Agents use portals like Imot.bg and international platforms.

• Euro Adoption: As of January 1, 2026, all property listings and contracts must be expressed in Euros.

• Viewings: Buyers (especially from the UK, Germany, and Poland) often ask about the “Act 16” status—the permission to use the building—which confirms it meets all construction standards.

Step 4: The Preliminary Contract

Once an offer is accepted, a Preliminary Contract (Predvaritelen Dogovor) is signed.

• The Deposit: The buyer typically pays a 10% deposit.

• Binding Nature: This contract locks in the price and completion date. If the buyer defaults, they lose the deposit; if you default, you must return it in double.

• Legal Interest: In 2026, this document is now used by buyers to legally justify their request for property records from the state registry.

Step 5: Completion at the Notary

The final transfer takes place before a Notary Public with jurisdiction over the property’s location.

• Secure Payment: Most funds are transferred via bank wire. In 2026, with Bulgaria in the Eurozone, SEPA transfers have made this instant and low-cost for EU buyers.

• The Signing: The Notary reads the new deed. If you are not fluent in Bulgarian, a licensed translator must be present.

• Registration: After signing, the Notary submits the deed to the Registry Agency (Vpisvaniyata) for official recording.

   

Step 6: Taxes and Capital Gains

After the sale, you must settle your tax liabilities:

• Capital Gains Tax (CGT): The rate is a flat 10% on the profit (Sale Price – Acquisition Cost – 10% statutory expenses).

• The 3-Year/5-Year Rule:

  • 1 Residential Property: Exempt from tax if held for more than 3 years.

  • Up to 2 Other Properties: Exempt if held for more than 5 years.

• Transfer Tax: Usually paid by the buyer (approx. 2.5% to 3.5% depending on the municipality).

Congratulations, you have successfully sold your Bulgarian property!