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Real Estate in Varna, Bulgaria | Expat Exchange
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Real Estate in Varna, Bulgaria

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By Betsy Burlingame

Last updated on Feb 18, 2023

Summary: The average cost of a nice 2 bedroom home in Varna, Bulgaria is around $50,000 USD. A nice 3 bedroom home in Varna is around $70,000 USD. These properties typically include modern amenities such as air conditioning, central heating, and modern appliances. Foreigners are allowed to purchase property in Varna, however, they must obtain a permit from the Bulgarian Ministry of Regional Development and Public Works. When searching for a home to buy in Varna, an expat should consider their budget, desired location, and amenities. It is also important to research the local real estate market and consult with a real estate agent. The most desirable neighborhoods in Varna include the city center, Primorski, and Trakata. These areas offer a variety of amenities, including shopping, restaurants, and entertainment.

How do I find a place to live in Varna?

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 Varna is to search online for rental listings. There are many websites that offer listings for apartments, houses, and other types of rental properties in Varna. Additionally, you can search for local real estate agents who specialize in Varna rentals. These agents can provide you with more information about the rental market in Varna and can help you find the perfect place to live. You can also ask friends and family who live in Varna for recommendations on rental properties. Finally, you can look for rental listings in local newspapers and magazines," explained one expat living in Varna, Bulgaria.

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

"Expat homes and apartments in Varna are typically modern and comfortable. Many of the apartments are located in the city center, close to shops, restaurants, and other amenities. The apartments are often spacious and well-equipped with modern appliances and furniture. Many of the homes and apartments have balconies or terraces with views of the Black Sea. Expats in Varna can also find homes and apartments in the suburbs, which offer more space and a quieter atmosphere," said one person in Varna.

"I suggest you rent an apartment before you buy. Bulgarians, for the most part, are very familiar with apartment life, However, my Bulgarian wife lived in an apartment for many years before we got married. We now live in a house with a yard, vegetable garden, dogs and cats. She will not go back to apartment living," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Bulgaria.

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What is the average cost of housing in Varna?

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

"The cost of housing in Varna varies depending on the type of accommodation and location. Generally, the average cost of renting an apartment in Varna is relatively affordable compared to other cities in Bulgaria. Prices range from around €200 to €500 per month for a one-bedroom apartment in the city centre, while a two-bedroom apartment can cost up to €700 per month. Prices for larger apartments and houses outside the city centre can be significantly lower," said one person in Varna.

Should I buy or rent a home in Varna?

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

"Buying or renting a home in Varna is largely dependent on individual circumstances and personal preferences. Consider factors such as your budget, desired length of stay, and whether you plan to move again in the near future. If cost is not a major concern and you intend to settle in Varna for a longer period, buying a home could be the best option. Be sure to factor in the additional costs associated with buying a home, such as legal fees, taxes, insurance, and maintenance. If you are only looking for a short-term stay or plan to move more frequently, renting a home in Varna could be the more economically sensible option," said one expat in Varna.

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

When we asked expats what advice they would give a foreigner before buying a property in Varna, 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 Bulgaria, including the need for a Bulgarian ID number and a Bulgarian bank account. 3. It is important to be aware of the taxes and fees associated with purchasing property in Bulgaria, including the transfer tax, registration fee, and notary fees. 4. It is important to be aware of the local infrastructure and amenities in the area, such as public transportation, schools, and hospitals. 5. It is important to be aware of the local laws and regulations regarding property ownership, such as zoning laws and building regulations. 6. It is important to be aware of the local customs and culture, as well as the language spoken in the area. 7. It is important to be aware of the local real estate agents and their reputation in the area. 8. It is important to be aware of the local crime rate and safety concerns in the area," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Varna.

Are foreigners allowed to own property in Varna?

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

"Yes, foreigners are allowed to own property in Varna. However, there are certain restrictions for non-EU citizens when it comes to owning land. Non-EU citizens can purchase and own buildings, apartments, and other types of property without any issues, but they are not allowed to directly own agricultural land, forests, or other types of land. To bypass this restriction, non-EU citizens can set up a Bulgarian company, which can then legally own the land on their behalf. EU citizens, on the other hand, can own both property and land without any restrictions," explained one foreigner living in Varna, Bulgaria.

What appliances are typically included in a rental?

We asked foreigners in Varna 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 Varna typically include a refrigerator, stove, oven, washing machine, and air conditioning unit. Other common appliances may include a dishwasher, microwave, and television," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Varna.

Additional Information about Searching for a Home in Varna:

We asked foreigners in Varna 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 looking for homes in Varna, often start their search by browsing online real estate websites and portals that list available properties in the area. They may also join local expat forums and social media groups to seek advice and recommendations from fellow expats who have already gone through the process of finding a home in Varna. Another option for expats is to contact local real estate agencies that cater to the international community, as these agencies can provide valuable assistance in navigating the local property market and negotiating rental or purchase agreements. Expats may also visit popular neighborhoods in Varna to explore the area and look for "For Rent" or "For Sale" signs on properties. Additionally, networking with other expats and locals can be helpful in finding potential housing opportunities that may not be listed online. Attending local events, joining clubs, or participating in community activities can provide expats with valuable connections and insights into the local housing market. Lastly, some expats may choose to stay in temporary accommodations, such as hotels or serviced apartments, while they search for a more permanent home in Varna. This allows them to get a feel for the city and its neighborhoods before committing to a long-term rental or purchase," said one expat in Varna.

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.

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