Your Complete Guide to Real Estate & Apartments in Serbia
TL;DR: Serbia’s real estate market offers excellent value—modern apartments close to city centers for €1,300–2,000/m² in Novi Sad and Belgrade. Buying grants residency, long-term capital gains tax exemptions, and customization freedom. This guide breaks down everything you need to know.
Why Apartments Reign Supreme in Serbia
Why Apartments Reign Supreme in Serbia
High demand: Apartments are the most common property type, whether in New-builds or charming older buildings relocationserbia.com+8
City-centric living: Most options are within walking or biking distance to downtown areas.
Case in point: A Canadian client discovered Belgrade starts around €2,000/m², while Novi Sad offers similar-quality units for ~€1,350/m²— just 10 minutes from the center .
🇷🇸 Novi Sad vs. Belgrade: Price & Value Comparison
🇷🇸 Novi Sad vs. Belgrade: Price & Value Comparison
| City | Avg. Price (€/m²) | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Belgrade | ~€2,000–4,200 | Prime central locations, high-quality finishes, strong rental demand (relocationserbia.com) |
| Novi Sad | ~€1,300–3,000 | Spacious, more affordable options; ideal for families or those seeking space |
Buying Process & What to Know
Buying Process & What to Know
Room count explained:
A “two-room apartment” likely means one bedroom + living room—so always clarify the layout.
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Construction standards:
New builds: Solid brick and mortar architecture, safe and durable.
Old builds: Classic charm, established communities—but may need renovation.
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Utilities & setup:
Utilities aren’t auto-activated—buyers must set up electricity, water, and sewage themselves
Residency Through Real Estate Ownership
Residency Through Real Estate Ownership
Multiple pathways open once you purchase property:
Temporary residency – owning a residential apartment qualifies you for a temporary residence permit relocationserbia.com+4
Permanent residency or citizenship – after 5 years, you can apply for long-term stay or citizenship.
Family-friendly options – properties anywhere in Serbia typically qualify—villages included, as long as they’re residential
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💡 Tip: Agricultural or commercial land doesn't qualify—ensure your property is legally residential
Renting vs. Buying: Practical Tips
Renting vs. Buying: Practical Tips
Renting:
Most deals are direct with landlords, often with informal agreements.
Be prepared to negotiate terms and advocate for written contracts.
Buying:
Budget ~€1,500–2,500 for legal and administrative fees, plus renovation costs.
Use licensed local real estate services for stress-free transactions.
How Relocation Serbia Guides You
How Relocation Serbia Guides You
Consultation – define needs, location, and budget.
Curated property list – select matching apartments or houses.
Legal & tax help – handle property due diligence, contracts, banking, and utilities.
Residency support – apply for temporary and long-term permits.
Post-purchase services – manage renovation, rentals, and ongoing compliance.
Frequently asked questions
Can I buy property as a foreigner?
Yes—foreigners can purchase residential real estate easily, but agricultural land is restricted
How long do I need to hold to avoid capital gains tax?
Hold for 10 years, and individual sellers pay zero CGT
Do I get residency by buying property?
Absolutely. A residential purchase qualifies for temporary residency, and eventually permanent status.
Are utilities included in prices?
No—utilities are separate and must be set up individually.
Final Thoughts
Final Thoughts
Serbia offers a compelling real estate landscape—affordable prices, modern construction, residency by purchase, and long-term tax benefits. With diverse options from Adriatic-chic developments to green residential blocks, this guide arms you with the knowledge to navigate the market confidently.
👉 Ready to explore properties tailored to you? Contact Relocation Serbia for expert support every step of the way.