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Real Estate in Austria | Expat Exchange
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Graz, Austria

Real Estate in Austria

By Betsy Burlingame

Last updated on Mar 25, 2023

Summary: An expat looking to buy a home in Austria should begin by researching the local real estate market and familiarizing themselves with the different types of properties available. They should also consider their budget and the type of amenities they are looking for in a home. When searching for a home to buy in Austria, expats should look for properties that are in good condition and have all the necessary amenities. These typically include a kitchen, bathroom, living room, bedrooms, and a balcony or terrace. Expats should also consider the location of the property, as well as the local amenities such as schools, shops, and public transportation. Foreigners are allowed to purchase property in Austria, however, there are certain restrictions in place. For example, foreigners are not allowed to purchase agricultural land or land that is designated as a protected area. Additionally, foreigners must obtain permission from the local government before they can purchase a property.

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How do I find a place to live in Austria?

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

"There are various ways to find a place to live in Austria. One of the simplest and most effective ways is to use online resources, such as searching websites such as Praktikawelten and Immobilien Scout, which both allow you to search for properties according to your specific criteria and preferences. Additionally, you may wish to contact a local real estate agent who can provide valuable advice and assistance in your search for the perfect home. Finally, it is also possible to look for rental opportunities through networking locals and expats through platforms such as Facebook Groups, online forums, and other online groups dedicated to the particular region or city in which you are looking," said one expat who made the move to Austria.

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

"Expat homes and apartments in Austria tend to be modern, spacious and meticulously maintained. Many have tasteful decorations and colorful accents that give a warm, homey feel. Many expats find that having access to public transportation, supermarkets and other amenities nearby is key when choosing a home. Expat housing in Austria also tends to be quite secure, making it a great option for those looking for a safe and comfortable place to call home," explained one expat living in Austria.

What is the average cost of housing in Austria?

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

"Higher, and the average is about 8 -1200 American Dollars per month WITHOUT the ammenities, and you need to purchase your own kitchen. I am not kidding," said one person in Graz.

"The average cost of housing in Austria varies by location and property type. Generally, rental costs are higher in the larger urban areas, such as Vienna and Graz, while renting or purchasing property in the country’s smaller cities and rural regions typically tends to be more affordable. Renting normally costs an average of €740-950/month in Vienna and €560-830/month in Graz, while buying an already constructed apartment or house in Vienna or Graz averages about €4,300 to €4,900 per square meter," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Austria.

Should I buy or rent a home in Austria?

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

"Whether to buy or rent a home in Austria is a personal decision that should be based on your circumstances and needs. If you are planning to stay in Austria for a long time, buying a home may be advantageous as it will provide a stable long term investment. On the other hand, if you plan on staying in Austria for a relatively short time, renting a home may be more beneficial and cost-effective, as it requires no long term financial commitment. Additionally, you should also consider factors such as the current property market trends and your budget when making your decision," remarked one member in Austria.

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

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

"1. It is important to engage a qualified lawyer to ensure a smooth contract and closing process. 2. Before you commit to purchasing a property in Austria it is essential to do your due diligence in order to understand the local market and relevant laws. 3. Check that the desired property meets all building regulations and standards imposed by Austria. 4. Research title deeds and records of the property that you are considering to purchase. 5. Make sure you understand all the costs associated with buying a property in Austria, including the notary, lawyer, and land registry fees. 6. Some municipalities require buyers to pay an additional tax on top of the purchase price when buying property. 7. Proof of financial means may be requested by the Austrian government, such as proof of income, assets, and/or bank statements. 8. The Austrian government may require non-EU citizens to submit an application for a residence permit in order to purchase a property in Austria," said one expat in Austria.

Are foreigners allowed to own property in Austria?

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

"Yes, foreigners are allowed to own property in Austria. Non-EU citizens must obtain a residence permit in order to purchase property in Austria. EU citizens are allowed to purchase property without a residence permit. However, they must register with the local authorities and provide proof of sufficient financial resources to cover the purchase. Non-EU citizens must also provide proof of sufficient financial resources and must obtain a residence permit before they can purchase property in Austria," said one foreigner living in Austria.

What appliances are typically included in a rental?

We asked foreigners in Austria 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:

"In Austria, rental properties usually include appliances such as a refrigerator, a stovetop, an oven, a washing machine, and a dishwasher. Some homes may also have additional appliances such as a microwave, a toaster, and a coffee maker. Furniture may not be included in the rental property, so it is important to check with the landlord before signing the rental agreement," said one foreigner living in Austria.

Additional Information about Searching for a Home in Austria:

We asked foreigners in Austria 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 Austria by looking online for real estate websites that specialize in the Austrian market, such as Immobilien.at or ImmobilienScout24.at. They can also contact local real estate agents who can provide information on available properties and help with the search process. Additionally, expats can look for rental listings in local newspapers and online classifieds, such as willhaben.at," explained one expat in Austria.

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.

Graz, Austria

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