If you are planning to sell property in Romania, understanding the fiscal landscape is the first step toward a successful transaction. Romania remains one of the most tax-friendly environments in the European Union for real estate, but recent updates in 2025 and 2026 have refined the costs that sellers must account for. To ensure you walk away with the maximum possible profit, you need to understand the breakdown of taxes, notary fees, and administrative costs.
The Seller’s Income Tax: 1% vs. 3%
The most significant cost for any individual looking to sell property in Romania is the income tax on the transaction. Unlike many Western countries that use complex capital gains formulas, Romania uses a straightforward system based on the duration of ownership.
As of 2026, the tax rates are:
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1% of the total sale price: If you have owned the property for more than three years.
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3% of the total sale price: If you have owned the property for three years or less.
It is important to note that this tax is applied to the entire transaction value, not just the profit. For example, if you sell property in Romania for €200,000 after owning it for five years, your tax liability is a flat €2,000. This simplicity is a major draw for international investors who want to sell property in Romania without navigating layers of accounting red tape.
Mandatory Notary Fees
In the Romanian legal system, a property sale is only valid if it is authenticated by a public notary. While the buyer often pays the bulk of the notary fees, the seller is frequently responsible for costs related to documentation.
Notary fees are calculated based on a national tariff grid. For a property valued above RON 600,001 (approx. €120,000), the fee is typically around RON 6,405 plus 0.6% of the value exceeding that threshold. When you sell property in Romania, you must also ensure the Notary public handles the tax withholding, as they are legally required to collect the 1% or 3% tax and transfer it to the state on your behalf.
Essential Documentation Costs
To sell property in Romania legally, you must provide a “Technical File” to the buyer. This includes:
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Cadastru and Intabulare: These are the land registry documents. If your property isn’t properly registered, you cannot sell property in Romania until this is corrected.
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Energy Performance Certificate: Mandatory for all sales, typically costing between €50 and €150.
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Fiscal Certificate: Proof from the local town hall that all annual property taxes have been paid up to the date of the sale.
Agent Commissions and Marketing
To reach the right audience and sell property in Romania at the best price, most sellers employ an agency. Standard commissions range from 2% to 3%. However, if your goal is to sell property in Romania to an overseas buyer, investing in a platform with international reach is vital. The cost of premium marketing—including professional photography and global portal placement—is often offset by the higher offers received from foreign investors who see the value in Romania’s growing market.
Summary Table of Selling Costs (2026)
| Expense Type | Rate/Cost | Responsibility |
| Income Tax (>3 years) | 1% of Sale Price | Seller |
| Income Tax (≤3 years) | 3% of Sale Price | Seller |
| Notary Fees | ~0.5% – 1.5% (scaled) | Usually Buyer (negotiable) |
| Land Registry Fee | 0.15% (Individuals) | Usually Buyer |
| Energy Certificate | €50 – €150 | Seller |
| Agent Commission | 2% – 3% | Seller |
Before you list your home, consult with experts to ensure your paperwork is flawless. To sell property in Romania with peace of mind, ensure all these figures are integrated into your initial asking price. By choosing the right partner to sell property in Romania, you can navigate these costs efficiently and secure a lucrative exit.
