# Buying Real Estate in Serbia: Process, Prices, and for Foreigners
Serbia allows foreigners to purchase real estate, and this is one of the pathways to *boravak*. Let's break down the prices, process, and nuances.
## Can Foreigners Buy Property?
Yes. Foreigners can buy apartments and houses in Serbia under the principle of **reciprocity** (*reciprocitet*) - this applies to citizens of most countries. Agricultural land is a separate, more complex topic.
## Prices (Guidelines for 2026)
Prices vary significantly depending on the city and district. Approximate prices per m²:
- **Belgrade:** new builds in the city center - 3,000-5,000 €/m² and higher, outskirts and resale - from 1,500-2,500 €/m².
- **Novi Sad:** 1,800-3,000 €/m² on average.
- **Niš, Kragujevac, Subotica:** significantly cheaper, often 1,000-1,800 €/m².
Houses in suburbs (e.g., Resnik, Ugrinovac) and small towns can cost significantly less per square meter. For current listings, see the [Housing section](https://serbiahub.com/housing).
## The Buying Process
1. Selecting a property (new build from a developer or resale) - options in the [real estate catalog](https://serbiahub.com/housing).
2. Verifying legal cleanliness and checking the cadastre extract.
3. Signing a preliminary agreement and paying a deposit (*kapara*).
4. Signing the main contract with a **notary public (*javni beležnik*)**.
5. Paying the transfer tax (*porez na prenos apsolutnih prava*) - for resale; first-time buyers of new builds may qualify for exemptions.
6. Registering ownership rights in the cadastre.
## Taxes and Expenses
- Transfer tax - approximately a few percent of the property value (for resale).
- Notary and agency fees (if using an agency).
- Annual property tax.
## Real Estate and *Boravak*
Owning real estate in Serbia can serve as a basis for obtaining *boravak*. For details on the requirements, see the [Documents and Residence Permit section](https://serbiahub.com/visa).
## In Brief
It is possible for a foreigner to buy an apartment or house in Serbia: select a property in the [real estate catalog](https://serbiahub.com/housing), verify the cadastre, finalize the deal with a notary, and register ownership rights. The purchase can serve as a basis for obtaining *boravak*.