What You Need to Know When Buying an Apartment – Complete Guide for Evaluation and Purchase

Buying an apartment is a significant investment, involving not only financial resources but also thorough planning. The process is often complex, covering technical, legal, and financial aspects that must not be overlooked. Careful property evaluation, document verification, identifying the right financing, and properly completing the transaction are essential steps to avoid long-term problems.

The following lines summarize the most important and useful information in the purchasing process: criteria to consider, necessary documents, associated costs, and legal obligations. Being well-informed ensures an inspired decision and a safe investment.

Apartment Evaluation – Key Aspects to Check

When visiting an apartment, it’s essential to pay attention to details that affect long-term comfort and costs. One of the first things to consider is the apartment’s orientation, as it determines natural light levels and thermal efficiency. For instance, southeast or southwest-facing apartments receive sunlight throughout the day, making the environment pleasant and helping reduce heating bills. In contrast, north-facing apartments may have less light, lower indoor temperatures, and higher heating costs in winter.

The structure and layout are also important. Consider whether the spaces suit your current and future needs. A well-compartmentalized apartment maximizes space and allows for potential modifications. Ensure there is sufficient storage and a logical flow between rooms.

Don’t forget to check the apartment’s technical condition. Inspect the walls for cracks, dampness, or signs of water infiltration. Verify that electrical, plumbing, and heating systems are working correctly. Windows and doors should be in good condition and properly sealed. A thorough inspection can save you from unexpected expenses later.

Also consider the apartment’s location in relation to your daily routine—proximity to work, school, and services matters. Check that the number of rooms meets your family’s current and future needs.

Set a realistic budget that includes the apartment price and additional expenses like renovations or furnishing. This helps you avoid surprises and better manage your investment.

The surrounding facilities greatly influence the quality of life and property value. Look for access to public transportation, shops, healthcare, schools, and parks. Even if a unit is more expensive, being close to essential services can save you time and money. Think about your lifestyle and what matters most to you in your everyday life.

Safety is another critical factor. Investigate crime rates in the area, the building’s security features, and property management quality. A safe and well-maintained neighborhood will help preserve property value over time. Also, check for urban development plans nearby—they could affect your property’s long-term value.

Required Documents for Buying an Apartment

To purchase an apartment, several documents are needed. It is crucial to check all of them carefully to avoid legal issues. The seller must provide all original and up-to-date documents.

• The property title is the most important, proving the seller’s ownership. Make sure it’s original and accurate. Any annotations may indicate legal concerns. Confirm that the seller’s name on the title matches their ID.
• The fiscal attestation certificate is obtained from the local tax authority and shows that the owner has no debts to the state. It’s valid for one month, so obtain it shortly before finalizing the deal. Make sure all taxes and fees are up to date to avoid any unpleasant surprises.
• The cadastral documentation includes the land registry and registration, which are essential for accurately identifying the property. These documents provide detailed information about the surface area, dimensions, and technical characteristics of the apartment. Make sure the data in the cadastral documentation matches reality and that there are no discrepancies.
• The land registry excerpt is obtained from the Office of Cadastre and Real Estate Publicity and contains information about the current legal status of the property. It is valid for 10 working days from the date of issuance, so it must be up to date. Check for any mortgages, encumbrances, or legal disputes related to the land registry that could affect the ownership right.
• The energy performance certificate is mandatory and provides information about how energy-efficient the apartment is. This certificate helps you estimate future maintenance and utility costs. An apartment with a good energy performance rating can significantly reduce utility bills.

If you want to buy the apartment using a bank loan, you will need to prepare several documents. In addition to identification documents and proof of income, the bank will likely request the preliminary sale-purchase agreement. The loan approval process may take a few weeks. Make sure you have all necessary documents ready in time to speed up the loan approval process.

Taxes and Costs Associated with Buying an Apartment

When planning your budget for purchasing an apartment, it’s important to consider not only the purchase price, but also the additional costs involved in the process. These costs usually represent a significant percentage of the total value of the home and include notary fees, registration costs, commissions, and other mandatory payments.

Among the first expenses is the registration fee, which is paid to the Office of Cadastre and is calculated based on the value of the apartment. Notary fees vary depending on the purchase price and are established based on an official fee schedule. These include the notary’s fee and stamp duties.

In some cases, the buyer may also have to pay the income tax on the sale of the property, which depends on how long the property was owned by the seller.

To all these are added, possibly, the real estate agency commission, if a broker was involved, the evaluation costs of the home in case of purchase through credit, the mandatory insurance of the apartment and renovation or fitting-out expenses. Don’t forget to also include in your budget the moving-related costs.

Carefully planning all these aspects helps you avoid unexpected expenses and manage your investment more securely.

Type of Financing – Mortgage, New Home Credit, Purchase with Own Funds

How you finance your apartment purchase greatly affects your negotiation power and overall strategy. Each payment method has pros and cons, depending on your financial situation.

If paying in full with your own funds, you have a strong advantage: no bank approval is needed, allowing you to close the deal faster and possibly negotiate a lower price. You also avoid interest rates and banking fees.

In the case of a mortgage, a down payment is required, and the bank will assess your income, expenses, and credit history to determine the loan amount. Interest rates vary depending on your financial profile. If using a government program like “New Home,” you may benefit from better conditions—lower down payments and preferential rates. However, approval may take longer.

Regardless of the method, you’ll have more negotiating power if your funds are ready or if you have pre-approved credit. Sellers are more open to discussing price under such circumstances. Research local prices and use that data to your advantage.

What to Watch Out for When Buying an Apartment – Checking the Developer or Owner

Call on a lawyer specialized in real estate law:

• They help you understand the contract When you ask yourself what to pay attention to when buying an apartment, one of the first aspects to check is who is selling the property – a real estate developer or a private individual. Among the selection criteria for an apartment should be an evaluation of the seller to avoid legal and financial problems.
  

  If you want to buy a new apartment:

  • Check the developer’s history:
    • Find out what other projects they have completed.
    • Check reviews and opinions from clients.
    • Look for any lawsuits or legal disputes they’re involved in.
  • Choose a developer with experience and solid reputation to reduce risks.
  • Check online forums and social networks for unbiased opinions from other buyers.
  • Look for relevant certifications and awards:
    • Awards or distinctions reflect compliance with quality standards.
    • International certifications (e.g., BREEAM) indicate concern for energy efficiency and sustainability.
    • These elements can increase the apartment’s value in the long term.

  If you want to buy an old apartment:

  • Verify the seller’s identity and ownership rights:
    • Request ownership documents.
    • Check the land registry excerpt to ensure there are no debts or legal proceedings.
  • Talk to the neighbors:
    • They can provide valuable information about the property’s history.
    • You can find out if there were hidden problems or conflicts with the former owner.
  • Carefully check the apartment’s legal documents:
    • Urban planning certificate.
    • Building permit.
    • Reception report.
    • The absence of these documents may indicate serious legal problems.
  • Make sure all documents comply with current legislation.

  Legal Consultation for the sale-purchase contract.

• Identifies risky clauses and offers solutions.
• Can negotiate in your favor for unfavorable contractual terms.
• This investment gives you legal security and prevents unforeseen costs.

What to Do After Buying an Apartment

After purchasing the apartment, a few essential steps follow that will allow you to enjoy your new home stress-free. It is important to follow these procedures as soon as possible to avoid penalties or legal complications.

Here’s what you need to do after buying an apartment:

• First, you must register with the Local Tax and Duty Directorate within 30 days of signing the contract. Bring the sale-purchase contract and your identity document to be registered as the new owner.
• Then, you must collect the conclusion from the notary, which confirms that your ownership right has been registered. Keep this document carefully, as it is very important for any future transactions.
• You need to transfer utility contracts to your name. Contact electricity, gas, water, internet, and television providers to update contact and billing information. This way, you avoid service interruptions and billing problems.
• Notify the building administrator that you are the new owner. Present a copy of the sale-purchase contract and your identity document. Inquire about internal regulations, maintenance costs, and any planned work.
• Get home insurance to protect against natural risks and accidents. Compare offers from several insurance companies to get the best coverage at a good price. Insurance is mandatory if you have a mortgage, but it’s recommended anyway.
• Check installations and clean the apartment before moving in. Test all systems and repair any problems. A technical inspection can help you identify hidden defects and negotiate with the former owner to have them repaired.

Differences Between New and Old Apartments – Advantages and Risks

Choosing between a new apartment and an old one is an essential step when deciding to make a real estate purchase. To avoid costly mistakes, it is important to understand both the advantages and disadvantages of each option.

Advantages of new apartments:

• They are built according to modern standards, with superior thermal and sound insulation, which can reduce heating costs by up to 40%.
• You benefit from new electrical and plumbing installations, designed for safety and efficiency.
• The design is adapted to current needs, with functional spaces and modern finishes.
• Most new projects include:
  • Underground parking
  • Green spaces and playgrounds
  • Integrated security systems
• You get a warranty for construction and installations, meaning any problems will be fixed for free, for 2 to 10 years depending on the nature of the defect.

In addition, a major advantage of new apartments is the varied range of housing adapted to different lifestyles:

• Studio apartments – ideal for a modern and efficient lifestyle, perfect for active young people or single professionals.
• 2-room apartments – suitable for couples or families just starting out, offering a balance between space and functionality.
• 3-room apartments – offer generous space for growing families, ensuring privacy and comfort.
• 4-room apartments – ideal for large families or those who want spacious, bright, and efficiently compartmentalized spaces.
• Apartments with garden – an excellent option for those who want a corner of nature in the middle of the city, suitable for both relaxation and families with children.

Advantages of old apartments:

• They have a lower purchase price, making them more affordable.
• They are usually located in central or semi-central areas, with quick access to public transport, schools, hospitals, and shops.
• They offer more generous spaces that can be personalized and renovated according to your tastes.

Disadvantages of old apartments:

• They often require costly renovations, which can reach 20–50% of the purchase price.
• Electrical and plumbing installations may be worn out, increasing the risk of malfunctions and maintenance costs.
• Energy efficiency is lower, leading to higher utility bills.
• Checking legal documents can be more difficult due to ownership history or potential encumbrances.
• It is recommended to research average renovation costs in the area and include them in your total budget.

The Role of the Notary and the Preliminary Contract – Legal Steps Before Signing the Final Contract

When you decide to buy an apartment, involving a public notary is essential to ensure the legality and security of the transaction. The notary:

• verifies the identity of the parties involved;
• authenticates relevant documents;
• ensures that all legal provisions are respected and that the property has no legal problems.

What is the preliminary contract?

The preliminary contract is a preliminary document in which the basic conditions of the transaction are established. It is especially useful when:

• you need time to obtain a bank loan;
• certain administrative formalities are still necessary before signing the final contract.

What should a preliminary contract include?

A well-written preliminary contract should contain:

• the identity of the parties (buyer and seller);
• exact description of the apartment;
• sale price and payment method;
• deadline for signing the sale-purchase contract;
• possible penalties in case of non-compliance with contractual obligations.

Although authenticating the preliminary contract with a notary is not mandatory, it gives the document greater legal force. If one of the parties violates the agreement, you can go to court to recover the amounts paid or other damages.

Market Verification – Area Prices, Growth Potential, Investment Safety

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Before buying an apartment, it is essential to analyze the local real estate market to make sure you pay a fair price and that your investment has real growth potential over time.

How to check the correct price of an apartment?

• Compare the price per square meter of the target apartment with that of other similar properties in the area.
• Consult real estate websites, talk to local agents, and analyze recent transactions to assess real market trends.
• If you notice significant price variations, these may indicate:
  • a negotiation opportunity;
  • or that the asking price is overvalued.

What influences property value growth?

• Public and private investments in the area (roads, shopping centers, educational institutions, etc.).
• Planned urban development, including redevelopment, infrastructure projects, and modernization.
• Population growth or migration to the respective area.

An area undergoing urban development generally has greater potential for appreciation in the medium and long term.

How do you assess investment safety?

• Check:
  • Local economic stability (unemployment rate, labor market development);
  • Crime level (you can consult official data or talk to residents);
  • Quality of local administration, which influences infrastructure and public services.
• Analyze official urban plans to understand the area’s development direction.

Buying an apartment represents a major step that involves both responsibility and good planning. It is an investment with long-term impact on your life, which is why it deserves time, attention, and resources to make the best choice.

Consulting specialists in the field – lawyers, evaluators, or financial consultants – can help you avoid costly errors and maximize the potential of your investment.

Plan each stage carefully, document yourself thoroughly, and avoid impulsive decisions. An informed and well-founded choice will offer you not only legal security but also long-term financial stability.