Before starting a search for a property in Hungary, It is important to decide on what type of property you would like to buy. Think about how you are going to use it and have a clear idea about your needs before starting the search. It is good to make a list of your expectations and to rank them. Since you have to make compromises during the house-buying process, this list will help you to find the property that best fits your needs.
Information sources
A good starting-point for your search is visiting the following websites:
- www.ingatlan.com (available in Hungarian, English and German) is Hungary's largest online property database. You can search for different types of property (e.g. renting/buying; houses, flats, parcels, for commercial use, etc.) and select the area in which you're interested (including Budapest, Balaton and other parts of Hungary). The site also provides you with useful links related to the acquisition of property, such as real estate law specialists and English-speaking lawyers.
- www.ingatlan.net similar name but different site and only available in Hungarian;
The newspapers Pesti Est and BBJ regularly publish information about the property market and run advertisements for real estate agents and developers.
Real estate agencies
In Hungary, real estate agencies don't charge clients wishing to buy property as they receive brokerage commission from the sellers. This doesn’t mean that some agents will not try and make a charge, so always make sure all costs and charges are clear in advance of making an agreement or signing anything.
Tip: The use of a specialist relocation/property company is highly recommended. A good company will have an in-depth knowledge of the property market, prices, how the system works and the possible problems to avoid. In addition, they should be able to help with the negotiation of a purchase and the drawing up of contracts. Specialists also tend to have good relationships with several real estate agencies, so you will be shown more properties. www.expatcenter.hu is a good place to start when researching a property purchase.