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Guide to Buying Real Estate in Montenegro

Step-by-step instructions with examples and case studies

Montenegro has become one of the most attractive destinations for foreign property buyers. A mild climate, the Adriatic coast, relatively affordable prices and the possibility of obtaining a residence permit on the basis of property ownership make the market compelling — but before acting, it is important to understand the procedure.

1

Defining goals and budget

  • •Investment and rental — demand analysis in coastal areas (Budva, Kotor, Tivat, Bar)
  • •Permanent residence — infrastructure: shops, schools, hospitals, transport
  • •Country house for holidays — scenic views, proximity to the sea
  • •Additional costs: purchase tax 3–6%, real estate agent, notary, translator fees
2

Search and working with an agent

  • •Specialised websites, agencies, recommendations from acquaintances
  • •From late 2025 agencies must hold a mandatory real estate licence
  • •Check location, condition of utilities and legal status of the property
  • •Ensure there are no encumbrances or utility debts
3

Legal due diligence

  • •List nepokretnosti (property register extract) — owner details, encumbrances
  • •Check via the cadastre: ekatastar.me or Goodroom service (app.goodroom.me)
  • •For new builds — building permit and occupancy permit (Upotrebna dozvola)
  • •Land plots: available to foreigners, but restrictions apply in protected zones
4

Preliminary agreement and deposit

  • •Sporazum (preliminary agreement): price, timelines, deposit terms
  • •Deposit — usually from €5,000 to 10% of the property value
  • •Terms for refund or forfeiture if the deal falls through
5

Notarial deed

  • •Signing the main contract (Ugovor o kupoprodaji) at a notary
  • •Present: seller (or authorised representative), buyer, translator (if needed)
  • •Notary cost: 0.1–0.5% of the transaction amount (usually €300–400 for a property worth €80,000)
6

Payment options

  • •Bank transfer (SWIFT or SEPA) — the safest option
  • •Notarial escrow — funds are released to the seller only after conditions are met
  • •Cash — possible between individuals, but requires caution

Useful resources

State cadastre
ekatastar.me
Document verification — Goodroom
app.goodroom.me

Remember the additional costs

  • • Purchase tax on secondary market property: 3–6% of the cadastral value
  • • New builds — VAT is already included in the developer's price
  • • Notary: 0.1–0.5% of the transaction amount
  • • Translator: €50–100

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