Real Estate in Hungary
Last updated on Sep 25, 2023
Summary: An expat looking to buy a home in Hungary 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 Hungary, 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 garden or outdoor space. Expats should also consider the location of the property and the surrounding area. Foreigners are allowed to purchase properties in Hungary, however, there are certain restrictions in place. For example, foreigners are not allowed to purchase agricultural land or properties located in certain protected areas. Additionally, foreigners must obtain a permit from the local government before they can purchase a property.
How do I find a place to live in Hungary?
We asked expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:
"I already knew the neighborhood from spending a summer here working as an intern. Found my apartment by asking friends & looking for apartments with roommates," said one person in Budapest.
"One of the best ways to find a place to live in Hungary is to use online resources such as websites and apps. Websites such as alberlet.hu, ingatlan.com, and ingatlanok.hu are popular resources for finding rental properties in Hungary. Additionally, there are a number of apps available for both iOS and Android devices that can help you find a place to live in Hungary. These apps include Alberlet, Ingatlanok, and Ingatlan.hu. Additionally, you can also use social media platforms such as Facebook and Twitter to search for rental properties in Hungary. Finally, you can also contact local real estate agents who can help you find a place to live in Hungary," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Hungary.

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William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
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What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Hungary?
"Expat homes and apartments in Hungary tend to be modern and comfortable, with a range of amenities to suit different lifestyles. Many expats choose to live in the city centre, where they can enjoy easy access to public transport, shops, restaurants, and other attractions. Expat apartments often come with a fully-equipped kitchen, a comfortable living area, and a balcony or terrace. Many also have access to a communal garden or courtyard, providing a pleasant outdoor space to relax in," said one expat who made the move to Hungary.
"Hungary can be challenging like any country for expats but is especially so if you came here and wonder why Hungarian people can't be more, well, American. There is not, for example a single expat in Hungary whose country did not stand on the wrong side of history. If you come here to visit, please enjoy the food, art, nature and architecture and be a good guest. If you are coming here to live, accept that Hungary, like your own country is flawed but beautiful in its very own unique way. If you can’t do that, maybe Hungary isn't for you," explained one foreigner living in Hungary.
"We live in an apartment and is quite common for expats. But, expect them to be small at the lower prices. Better deals can be found outside the city like a house for example but the drive into the city can be terrible at times," said one in Budapest.
"I live in an old apartment with a typical, Budapest courtyard that I love. It is a typical young-person's and there are many foreign students, but it's not a typical expat neighborhood. Expat neigbhorhoods are 5th and 6th district (around the embassies and businesses downtown) or residential Buda side districts like 1, 2, 2A and 12," explained one expat in Budapest.

William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.

William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
What is the average cost of housing in Hungary?
If you are thinking about moving to Hungary, cost of living in probably a key consideration. Expats commented about the cost of housing:
"I would say outside the city lower but inside the city normal for most US cities and lower for cities like NYC and DC. The average cost for a 1200 square ft. apartment is around the same price usds. If you get a good deal that would include utilities. We pay 720. usds on the average for a 1 bedroom apartment including utilities. We were lucky," explained one person living in Budapest, Hungary.
"The cost of housing in Hungary varies depending on the location and type of accommodation. Generally, renting an apartment in Hungary can cost anywhere from around €200 to €1,000 per month, while buying a property can range from €50,000 to €500,000," said one expat in Hungary.
Should I buy or rent a home in Hungary?
If you have not spent a lot of time in Hungary, you should rent before even thinking about buying. We asked expats there about the buy vs. rent decision:
"Yes my husband and I very quickly purchased a unrenovated apartment. I am a real estate consultant, so I believe in renovation adding value . I did not want to pay for someone else's poor renovation. The process is not difficult. You may contact me for help," explained one person living in Budapest, Hungary.
What do I need to know when buying property in Hungary?
When we asked expats what advice they would give a foreigner before buying a property in Hungary, they said:
"1. It is important to research the local market and understand the current trends in the area before making a purchase. 2. It is important to understand the legal requirements for purchasing property in Hungary, including any taxes or fees that may be applicable. 3. It is important to have a clear understanding of the terms of the contract before signing it. 4. It is important to have a clear understanding of the rights and obligations of both the buyer and the seller. 5. It is important to have a clear understanding of the local laws and regulations regarding property ownership. 6. It is important to have a clear understanding of the local customs and culture when purchasing property in Hungary. 7. It is important to have a clear understanding of the financing options available for purchasing property in Hungary. 8. It is important to have a clear understanding of the insurance requirements for purchasing property in Hungary. 9. It is important to have a clear understanding of the maintenance and upkeep requirements for the property. 10. It is important to have a clear understanding of the potential risks associated with purchasing property in Hungary," said one person in Hungary.
Are foreigners allowed to own property in Hungary?
When we asked expats what advice they would give a foreigner before buying a property in Hungary, they said...
"Yes, foreigners are allowed to own property in Hungary. Non-EU citizens must obtain a residence permit in order to purchase property in Hungary, while EU citizens are allowed to purchase property without a residence permit. However, non-EU citizens are not allowed to purchase agricultural land or forest land. Additionally, foreign companies are allowed to own property in Hungary, but they must register with the Hungarian authorities," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Hungary.
What appliances are typically included in a rental?
We asked foreigners in Hungary 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 Hungary, rental properties typically include a refrigerator, stove, oven, and washing machine. Other common appliances may include a dishwasher, microwave, and air conditioning unit. Depending on the property, some landlords may also provide furniture and other amenities," explained one expat in Hungary.
Additional Information about Searching for a Home in Hungary:
We asked foreigners in Hungary 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 Hungary by looking online for real estate websites that specialize in the Hungarian market, such as ingatlan.com or ingatlanok.hu. They can also contact local real estate agents who can provide more information about the local market and help them find the right home for their needs. Additionally, expats can search for homes in Hungary by attending open houses or visiting local neighborhoods to get a better feel for the area," explained one expat in Hungary.
About the Author
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.
Other Questions:
- What should I pack when moving to Hungary?
- Where should I setup a bank account in Hungary?
- Will I be able to find a job in Hungary?
- What is life like as an expat in your area?
- What do expats in Hungary appreciate most about the local culture?
- What do expats find most challenging?
- Is there a lot of crime in Hungary?
- Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Hungary accepting of differences?
- What are the schools in Hungary like?
- How are healthcare services in Hungary?
- What are medical services in Hungary like?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Hungary?
- What are emergency services like in Hungary?
- Will I need to travel to see a specialist?
- Are common prescription medications available in Hungary?
- How are local medical facilities in Hungary?
- As a foreigner living in Hungary, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?
- What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?