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Real Estate in Bucharest, Romania | Expat Exchange
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Bucharest, Romania

Real Estate in Bucharest, Romania

By Joshua Wood, LPC

Last updated on Oct 25, 2024

Summary: The most desirable neighborhoods in Bucharest, Romania are Herastrau, Dorobanti, Primaverii, Aviatorilor, and Floreasca. The average cost to buy a nice 2 bedroom home in Bucharest is around $200,000 USD, while a nice 3 bedroom home can cost around $300,000 USD. These properties typically include modern amenities such as air conditioning, central heating, and high-speed internet. Foreigners are allowed to purchase property in Bucharest, however, they must obtain a permit from the Romanian Ministry of Justice. Expats should search for a home to buy in Bucharest by researching the different neighborhoods and their amenities, as well as by consulting with a real estate agent who is familiar with the local market.

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How do I find a place to live in Bucharest?

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

"Finding a suitable place to live in Bucharest depends on many factors such as budget, desired location, and required facilities. The most common way of finding accommodation in Bucharest is by searching online. There are many websites such as Airbnb, Spotahome, Homeaway and Booking.com that offer convenient and affordable housing for any requirements or preferences. Additionally, there are a variety of private listings including Facebook groups, Magazine classifieds and online forums. Real estate agents can also be contacted to find appropriate accommodation in Bucharest. Additionally, free accommodation can be found by participating in homestay programs and exchanges," explained one expat living in Bucharest, Romania.

"Through aquaintances. Met some international exchange students and kept in contact with them shrough social networks," said one person in Bucharest.

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

"Expat homes and apartments in Bucharest are typically modern and well-maintained, with many new developments offering high-quality amenities such as swimming pools, fitness centers, and communal areas. Common features include an open plan layout, spacious bedrooms, and balcony or terrace areas. Many apartments and homes feature cutting-edge technology and a modern, stylish interior design. Most homes are located near parks, shops, and restaurants, making them ideal for expats seeking a convenient yet culturally rich city lifestyle," said one person in Bucharest.

"I live in a rented flat on the 9th floor. It's a renovated 3-room apartment in a communistic block and I share it with 2 other expat, one of which is a colleague of mine, the other - a firend of a colleague. It's quite typical to share apartments, because most expats work in a more or less international environment with other expat folks. Also, compared to food prices at a market, for example, I find apartments to be disproportionately expensive. Especially when renting a studio," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Bucharest.

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What is the average cost of housing in Bucharest?

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

"The housing costs are a little higher than in Latvia. The cost for a studio is the same. But a multiple room apartment outside the city center in Riga should be a bit cheeper. Even if there isn't a big difference in the price, the salary rates vary a bit more for the disadvantage of Bucharest... We pay a monthly fee of 2100 lei - 470 Euro for rent+utilities for a simple 3 room apartment between the downtown and outskirts. Simple studios are around around 250 - 350 Euro," said one person in Bucharest.

"The cost of housing in Bucharest varies depending on the area and type of property. Generally, apartments in the city centre cost more than those outside of the centre, with prices ranging from around €400-€1,000 per month for apartments, and €500-€2,000 per month for houses," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Bucharest.

Should I buy or rent a home in Bucharest?

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

"Making the decision to buy or rent a home in Bucharest depends on a variety of factors. If you are looking for a long-term housing solution, you should consider buying a home. The cost of buying a home in Bucharest is relatively low compared to other global cities, and there are several loan options available. Depending on your financial situation, you may be able to get a loan for an amount close to the purchase price. If you are looking for a short-term solution or you are still not sure about the place you want to live in, renting may be a better option. The cost of renting in Bucharest is very affordable, and you can often look for temporary accommodations, like apartments in a guesthouse. Ultimately, after taking into account all factors, it is up to you to decide whether buying or renting a home in Bucharest is the best option for you," remarked one member in Bucharest.

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

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

"1. Research the local real estate market: Familiarize yourself with the property market in Bucharest, including the various neighborhoods, property types, and price ranges. 2. Hire a local real estate agent: A local agent can help you navigate the property market, negotiate prices, and handle the legal aspects of purchasing property in Bucharest. 3. Obtain a fiscal identification number: Foreign buyers need to obtain a fiscal identification number (NIF) from the Romanian Tax Authority before purchasing property. 4. Verify the property's legal status: Ensure that the property you are interested in has a clean title, no outstanding debts, and is registered with the Land Registry. 5. Obtain a property survey: A property survey will provide information on the property's boundaries, any potential issues, and the overall condition of the property. 6. Secure financing: If you need a mortgage to purchase the property, research local banks and financial institutions to find the best loan options. 7. Negotiate the purchase price: Work with your real estate agent to negotiate a fair price for the property, taking into account its condition, location, and market value. 8. Sign a pre-contract agreement: Once you have agreed on a price, you will sign a pre-contract agreement, which outlines the terms and conditions of the sale. 9. Pay a deposit: Typically, a deposit of 10% of the purchase price is required to secure the property. 10. Complete the sale: The final step is to sign the sale contract, pay the remaining balance, and register the property in your name with the Land Registry. 11. Obtain property insurance: It is essential to obtain property insurance to protect your investment from potential damages or losses. 12. Be aware of taxes and fees: When purchasing property in Bucharest, you will need to pay various taxes and fees, including property transfer tax, notary fees, and registration fees. 13. Consider property management: If you plan to rent out your property or use it as a vacation home, consider hiring a property management company to handle maintenance, tenant issues, and other responsibilities. 14. Familiarize yourself with local laws and regulations: As a property owner in Bucharest, it is essential to understand and comply with local laws and regulations, including building codes, zoning restrictions, and rental regulations," wrote one expat who made the move to Bucharest.

Are foreigners allowed to own property in Bucharest?

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

"Yes, foreigners are allowed to own property in Bucharest. However, there are certain restrictions and conditions that apply. For instance, citizens of non-European Union countries can only purchase land in Romania if there is a reciprocal agreement between their country and Romania. EU citizens, on the other hand, can purchase land and property in Romania without any restrictions, as long as they meet the legal requirements. It is important to note that foreign companies registered in Romania can also purchase land and property without any restrictions. In all cases, it is advisable to consult with a local real estate expert or lawyer to ensure compliance with Romanian property laws," said one person in Bucharest.

What appliances are typically included in a rental?

We asked foreigners in Bucharest 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 a rental property in Bucharest, you can typically expect to find essential appliances such as a refrigerator, stove, oven, and washing machine. Some properties may also include a dishwasher, microwave, and air conditioning units. However, it is essential to check the specific rental listing or consult with the landlord to confirm which appliances are included, as this may vary from one property to another," explained one person living in Bucharest, Romania.

Additional Information about Searching for a Home in Bucharest:

We asked foreigners in Bucharest 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 searching for homes in Bucharest often start by browsing online property portals and websites that cater specifically to the expat community. They may also join 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 Bucharest. Another option for expats is to work with a local real estate agent who is familiar with the needs and preferences of foreign clients. These agents can help expats navigate the local housing market, arrange property viewings, and negotiate rental or purchase agreements. Expats may also consider reaching out to their employer or colleagues for assistance in finding a suitable home, as they may have connections or recommendations for housing options in Bucharest. Additionally, expats can explore popular neighborhoods and areas in Bucharest that are known for their expat communities, such as Pipera, Herastrau, or Dorobanti. By visiting these areas, they can get a feel for the local amenities, transportation options, and overall atmosphere before committing to a specific property. Lastly, attending local expat events and networking gatherings can also be a helpful way to meet other expats who may have insights or connections to available housing options in Bucharest," explained one person living in Bucharest, Romania.

About the Author

Joshua Wood Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.

Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.

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