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
High demand: Apartments are the most common property type, whether in New-builds or charming older buildings relocationserbia.com+8
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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
| 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
Room count explained:
A “two-room apartment” likely means one bedroom + living room—so always clarify the layout.
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Construction standards:
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New builds: Solid brick and mortar architecture, safe and durable.
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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
Multiple pathways open once you purchase property:
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Temporary residency – owning a residential apartment qualifies you for a temporary residence permit relocationserbia.com+4
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Permanent residency or citizenship – after 5 years, you can apply for long-term stay or citizenship.
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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:
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Most deals are direct with landlords, often with informal agreements.
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Be prepared to negotiate terms and advocate for written contracts.
Buying:
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Budget ~€1,500–2,500 for legal and administrative fees, plus renovation costs.
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Use licensed local real estate services for stress-free transactions.
How Relocation Serbia Guides You
Consultation – define needs, location, and budget.
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Curated property list – select matching apartments or houses.
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Legal & tax help – handle property due diligence, contracts, banking, and utilities.
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Residency support – apply for temporary and long-term permits.
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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
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.