If you’re a British or Irish owner looking to sell property in Bulgaria, you’re not alone. Thousands of UK and Irish buyers purchased apartments, holiday homes, and investment properties across the Bulgarian Black Sea coast over the past 15–20 years. Today, many are reassessing their portfolios, releasing equity, or simply moving on to new opportunities.
Whether you own an apartment in Sunny Beach, a house near Burgas, or a holiday property along the coast, understanding the exact selling route — and who handles what locally — is essential for a smooth and profitable transaction.
This step-by-step guide explains everything clearly, so you know what to expect when selling property in Bulgaria as a foreign owner.
Step 1: Understanding the Current Bulgarian Property Market
Before listing your property, it’s important to understand market conditions.
Is There Demand Right Now?
Yes — and it’s more diverse than ever.
The Bulgarian property market, especially along the Black Sea coast, is currently seeing strong activity from:
- Polish buyers (holiday and investment purchases)
- Czech and Slovak buyers
- German investors
- Israeli buyers
- Bulgarian nationals buying summer homes
- Ukrainian families relocating
This broad international demand creates real opportunity for British and Irish sellers.
Why Bulgaria Remains Attractive
Bulgaria continues to stand out because of:
- Low property taxes
- Affordable maintenance costs
- Attractive rental yields
- EU membership stability
- Excellent value compared to Spain or Portugal
For buyers, Bulgaria represents one of the last truly affordable coastal property markets in Europe. That’s good news if you want to sell apartment in Bulgaria at the right price.
Step 2: Deciding If Now Is the Right Time to Sell
Many British owners selling property in Bulgaria ask the same question: Should I wait or sell now?
Here are some reasons why many owners are choosing to sell today:
- Property prices have recovered from past market lows
- Strong foreign buyer demand
- Rising maintenance fees in some complexes
- Portfolio restructuring after Brexit
- Capital release for investments closer to home
- Reduced personal usage of the property
If your property is no longer used regularly or no longer fits your long-term plans, this may be the right moment to act.
Step 3: Preparing the Property for Sale
Presentation matters more than most sellers realise.
Foreign sellers often make the mistake of assuming buyers will accept the property “as it is.” In reality, well-presented properties sell faster and at better prices.
What You Should Do:
- Remove personal clutter
- Complete small repairs
- Ensure utility bills and maintenance fees are up to date
- Provide clear ownership documentation
- Arrange professional photos
A professional real estate agent in Bulgaria will guide you through this stage properly.
Step 4: Setting the Right Price
Overpricing is the #1 mistake foreign sellers make.
Many owners price emotionally — based on what they paid years ago — rather than on today’s market reality.
A proper pricing strategy requires:
- Analysis of recent comparable sales
- Understanding buyer demand trends
- Knowledge of specific complexes and areas
- Awareness of seasonal fluctuations
Royal Estate Bulgaria provides accurate, data-driven valuations tailored to your specific location and property type.
Step 5: Marketing Your Property Internationally
When you sell property in Bulgaria, exposure is everything.
Listing on one small website is not enough.
Professional marketing should include:
- Major Bulgarian property portals
- International UK and Irish platforms
- Polish, German and Czech buyer networks
- Social media campaigns
- Targeted email databases
- Professional photography and video
Royal Estate Bulgaria specialises in reaching international buyers who are actively searching for Bulgarian property.
Step 6: Handling the Legal Process – Who Does What?
This is where many foreign sellers feel uncertain. Let’s break it down clearly.
What the Seller Provides:
- Title deed (Notarial Act)
- Tax valuation certificate
- Certificate of encumbrances
- Utility clearance documents
- Valid ID
What the Real Estate Agency Handles:
- Marketing and viewings
- Buyer negotiation
- Drafting preliminary agreements
- Coordinating with the notary
- Assisting with document collection
- Managing communication between parties
What the Notary Handles:
In Bulgaria, the notary plays a central role in the transfer of ownership.
The notary:
- Verifies identity
- Confirms property ownership
- Reviews documents
- Officially transfers ownership
- Registers the transaction
You can find general regulatory guidance through official sources such as the Bulgarian Registry Agency.
Do You Need to Be in Bulgaria to Sell?
No — and this is very important for UK and Irish owners.
You can sell remotely using a Power of Attorney (POA).
This means:
- You sign a POA in the UK or Ireland
- It is legalised and translated
- Your representative in Bulgaria signs on your behalf
Royal Estate Bulgaria regularly assists foreign sellers who complete the entire transaction without travelling.
Taxes When Selling Property in Bulgaria
While this is not legal advice, here is a general overview:
- Capital gains tax may apply depending on how long you have owned the property
- In some cases, no tax is due if ownership exceeds certain time thresholds
- Notary and municipal fees are typically paid by the buyer
A local expert ensures you understand your obligations clearly before signing.
Depending on your situation, capital gains tax may apply. We recommend consulting a professional advisor or the Bulgarian National Revenue Agency for official information.
Why Work With Royal Estate Bulgaria?
Selling property in Bulgaria as a foreigner requires local knowledge, transparency, and trust.
Royal Estate Bulgaria is based in Sunny Beach and operates across the Bulgarian Black Sea coast. The agency has extensive experience working specifically with British and Irish owners.
Here’s why sellers choose Royal Estate Bulgaria:
1. Deep Local Market Expertise
They understand:
- Complex-specific pricing
- Seasonal demand shifts
- Buyer psychology
- Local documentation procedures
2. Experience With British & Irish Sellers
They know:
- How to handle remote sales
- UK banking coordination
- Power of Attorney processes
- Communication expectations
3. Accurate Valuation Strategy
Pricing correctly from the start reduces time on market and protects your final sale price.
4. Full Process Management
From listing to final payment, Royal Estate Bulgaria coordinates:
- Marketing
- Negotiation
- Legal preparation
- Notary appointment
- Final payment transfer
Contact Royal Estate Bulgaria for free online property valuation!
Common Mistakes Foreign Sellers Make
Avoid these costly errors:
Overpricing the Property
Leads to long listing times and price reductions later.
Using Non-Local Agents
An agent outside Bulgaria cannot properly manage viewings or documentation.
Ignoring Presentation
Poor photos dramatically reduce buyer interest.
Incomplete Paperwork
Missing documents delay or even block sales.
Limited Marketing Exposure
Local-only marketing misses international buyers.
A trusted real estate agent in Bulgaria prevents these problems before they happen.
How Long Does It Take to Sell Property in Bulgaria?
The timeframe depends on:
- Price accuracy
- Property condition
- Location
- Season
- Buyer demand
Well-priced properties in high-demand areas can sell within weeks. Overpriced properties may sit for many months.
Final Step: Completion and Payment
On the day of completion:
- Buyer and seller (or representative) attend the notary
- Documents are signed
- Payment is transferred
- Ownership is officially registered
Funds are usually transferred via bank transfer on the same day or immediately after signing.
Your agency coordinates this to ensure security and transparency.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to sell property in Bulgaria?
Typically between 1–6 months, depending on price and market conditions.
Do I need to travel to Bulgaria to sell?
No. You can sell remotely using a Power of Attorney.
Do British owners pay tax when selling?
It depends on ownership duration and profit. A local advisor can clarify your situation.
How is the property value determined?
By analysing recent comparable sales, location demand, property condition, and current buyer activity.
Why use a local agency like Royal Estate Bulgaria?
Because local expertise ensures correct pricing, proper documentation, strong marketing, and smoother transactions.
Ready to Sell Your Property in Bulgaria?
If you’re serious about selling, the next step is simple.
Request a professional valuation and speak with a local expert who understands both the Bulgarian market and British sellers’ needs.
Royal Estate Bulgaria offers:
- Honest property assessments
- Clear communication
- Full transaction management
- International buyer exposure
Don’t leave your sale to chance.
If you want to sell property in Bulgaria safely, efficiently, and at the right market price, work with a trusted local partner who handles everything for you.
