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Real Estate in Macedonia | Expat Exchange
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Real Estate in Macedonia

By Betsy Burlingame

Last updated on Sep 24, 2023

Summary: An expat looking to buy a home in Macedonia should begin by researching the local real estate market. They should look for listings on websites such as Zillow, Trulia, and Realtor.com, as well as local real estate agents. Homes in Macedonia typically include amenities such as air conditioning, central heating, and modern appliances. Many homes also have balconies, terraces, and gardens. Foreigners are allowed to purchase property in Macedonia, but there are certain restrictions. Non-residents must obtain a permit from the Ministry of Interior in order to purchase property. Additionally, foreigners are not allowed to purchase agricultural land.

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How do I find a place to live in Macedonia?

We asked expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:

"One of the best ways to find a place to live in Macedonia is to search online for rental listings. Websites such as Airbnb, Booking.com, and HomeAway offer a variety of rental options in Macedonia. Additionally, you can search for local real estate agents who specialize in renting out properties in Macedonia. You can also look for classified ads in local newspapers or online forums. Finally, you can ask friends and family who live in Macedonia for recommendations," explained one person living in Macedonia.

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What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Macedonia?

"Expat homes and apartments in Macedonia tend to be modern and comfortable, with many featuring modern amenities such as air conditioning, high-speed internet, and cable television. Expats often choose to live in larger cities such as Skopje, where they can find a variety of housing options, from luxury apartments to more affordable options. Many expats also choose to live in smaller towns and villages, where they can enjoy a more relaxed lifestyle and take advantage of the country's natural beauty," explained one person living in Macedonia.

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What is the average cost of housing in Macedonia?

If you are thinking about moving to Macedonia, cost of living in probably a key consideration. Expats commented about the cost of housing:

"The cost of housing in Macedonia varies depending on the location and type of property. Generally, the cost of renting an apartment in Macedonia is relatively affordable, with prices ranging from around €200 to €500 per month. Buying a property in Macedonia is also relatively affordable, with prices ranging from around €1,000 to €2,000 per square meter," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Macedonia.

Should I buy or rent a home in Macedonia?

If you have not spent a lot of time in Macedonia, you should rent before even thinking about buying. We asked expats there about the buy vs. rent decision:

"Buying a home in Macedonia can be a great investment, as the country has a stable economy and a growing real estate market. However, it is important to consider the cost of living in the area, as well as the availability of financing options. Renting a home in Macedonia can be a more affordable option, as it allows you to live in the area without the commitment of a long-term mortgage. Additionally, renting can provide more flexibility if you are unsure of how long you will be living in the area. Ultimately, the decision to buy or rent a home in Macedonia should be based on your individual needs and financial situation," remarked one member in Macedonia.

What do I need to know when buying property in Macedonia?

When we asked expats what advice they would give a foreigner before buying a property in Macedonia, they said:

"1. It is important to research the local market and familiarize yourself with the laws and regulations governing property purchases in Macedonia. 2. It is advisable to hire a local lawyer to assist with the purchase process and to ensure that all legal requirements are met. 3. It is important to obtain a title deed for the property, which will provide proof of ownership. 4. It is also important to obtain a building permit if the property is to be used for construction or renovation. 5. It is important to be aware of any taxes or fees that may be applicable to the purchase of the property. 6. It is also important to be aware of any restrictions or limitations that may be placed on the use of the property. 7. It is important to be aware of any potential environmental issues that may be associated with the property. 8. It is also important to be aware of any potential risks associated with the purchase of the property, such as flooding or other natural disasters," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Macedonia.

Are foreigners allowed to own property in Macedonia?

When we asked expats what advice they would give a foreigner before buying a property in Macedonia, they said...

"Yes, foreigners are allowed to own property in Macedonia. According to the Macedonian Law on Property, foreign citizens and legal entities are allowed to own real estate in the country, provided that they have a valid residence permit. Foreigners are also allowed to purchase agricultural land, provided that they have a valid work permit. However, foreign citizens and legal entities are not allowed to own land in border areas, as this is restricted by the Macedonian Law on Border Areas," said one in Macedonia.

What appliances are typically included in a rental?

We asked foreigners in Macedonia what appliances are typically included in a rental, and, if there is anything else included or not included that a newcomer would not expect. Replies included:

"Rental properties in Macedonia typically include a refrigerator, stove, oven, and washing machine. Depending on the property, other appliances such as a dishwasher, microwave, and air conditioner may also be included," said one expat in Macedonia.

Additional Information about Searching for a Home in Macedonia:

We asked foreigners in Macedonia what appliances are typically included in a rental, and, if there is anything else included or not included that a newcomer would not expect. Replies included...

"Expats can search for homes in Macedonia by looking online for real estate websites that specialize in the area, asking friends and family for recommendations, and contacting local real estate agents for assistance. Additionally, expats can look for online forums and discussion boards to get advice from other expats who have already gone through the process of finding a home in Macedonia," explained one person living in Macedonia.

About the Author

Betsy Burlingame Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.

Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.

Ohrid Lake in Macedonia, one of the deepest and oldest lakes in the world

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