Can Foreigners Buy Property?
Yes. Foreigners can purchase apartments, houses, and commercial spaces. Restrictions apply to forest and agricultural land without special permits.
Due Diligence – Title Check
Your lawyer checks ownership at the cadastre, mortgages, encumbrances, and disputes. This mandatory step protects buyers from fraud.
Pre-Contract and Deposit
A pre-contract is signed with a 10% deposit. Your lawyer drafts it to protect your interests — loss of deposit or double return if either party withdraws.
Final Contract and Payment
A notarized purchase agreement is signed by both parties. Payment goes through a lawyer's escrow account or directly to the seller.
Title Registration
Your lawyer files for registration at the cadastre. Timeline: 30-60 days. You receive a property sheet as proof of ownership.
Purchase Costs
Property transfer tax: 3% of market value. Notary fee: 0.2-0.5%. Lawyer fee: 1-2%. Cadastral fee: fixed amount.
Advice
Never buy property in Montenegro without a lawyer. The risk of disputed ownership is real.