Real Estate Legal Advice

Trusted Legal Support for Property Buyers, Owners, and Landlords

Navigating Croatia’s real estate market requires more than just signing papers. Whether you’re buying a vacation home near the coast, acquiring your first apartment in Zagreb, or leasing property as a landlord, professional legal guidance is essential. Kontić Legal provides clear, secure, and tailored legal advice for individuals making important real estate decisions in Croatia.

Why You Need Real Estate Legal Advice in Croatia

Real estate law in Croatia involves specific procedures, documentation, and regulatory considerations. Mistakes in ownership verification or contract drafting can lead to years of complications.

Legal advice helps ensure:

You are buying from the rightful owner.
There are no hidden encumbrances or co-ownership issues.
Contracts are clear, enforceable, and compliant with Croatian law.
Ownership registration in the land registry is handled correctly and in accordance with Croatian legal procedures.

Whether you are a Croatian citizen or a foreign national, having a trusted legal advisor ensures the process is safe, smooth, and fully compliant.

Services Offered by Real Estate Property Lawyers

Kontić Legal focuses on the real estate needs of private individuals, both local and international. As experienced real estate property lawyers, the firm provides legal advice that prioritizes personal protection, legal certainty, and long-term peace of mind for individuals entering the Croatian property market.

Property Due Diligence

Ownership and land registry checks
Verification of urban planning status, building legality (construction and use permits), and legal construction documentation
Identifying encumbrances, mortgages, or easement rights

Contract Drafting and Review

Pre-contracts and purchase agreements
Lease agreements (residential and commercial)
Terms tailored to protect buyer/landlord interests

Land Registry and Title Registration

Registration of ownership rights
Removal of outdated encumbrances
Coordination with notaries and cadastral offices

Legal Advice for Foreign Buyers

Step-by-step guidance for non-residents
Assistance in obtaining Ministry approvals (when applicable)
Bilingual support in Croatian and English

Landlord Legal Advice in Croatia

Drafting and enforcing lease agreements
Advice on tenant rights and obligations

Property Inheritance and Co-ownership

Advice on dividing inherited property
Co-ownership dissolution
Legal support in family property transitions

Real Estate Tax and Compliance Advice

Information on property transfer taxes

Real Estate Process Explained Step-by-Step

Initial Agreement & Reservation: The buyer and seller agree on a price, and the property is often reserved by signing a letter of intent or paying a reservation deposit.
Legal Due Diligence: A property lawyer checks ownership status, land registry entries, zoning rules, building legality (construction/use permits), mortgages, encumbrances, or easements.
Pre-Contract Signing: A pre-contract outlines the basic terms of the transaction. It may include a down payment and a timeline for the final contract.
Obtaining Approvals: For non-EU citizens, approval from the Ministry of Justice may be required before proceeding.
Contract of Sale: Once all checks are complete, the final contract is signed. A notary public certifies signatures, and the balance of the payment is made.
Land Registry Entry: The new owner applies for registration in the land registry, completing the legal transfer of ownership.
Tax Payment and Compliance: Property transfer tax (usually 3%) is paid unless the purchase is VAT-based.

Common Pitfalls When Buying Property in Croatia

Unregistered ownership
Unlegalized buildings
Co-ownership issues
Encumbrances or debts
Misleading documentation

Legal advice ensures that none of these issues are overlooked during the buying process.

Detailed Legal Tips for Foreign Buyers

Check EU vs. non-EU status
Use a bilingual contract
Confirm land use designation
Verify infrastructure and utilities
Plan for notary and tax timelines

Example

Slovenian Family Buying a Holiday Home in Zadar

A Slovenian family set out to buy a charming coastal home in the Zadar area. The transaction required a thorough legal check of ownership records and urban planning status, as well as preparing contracts in both Croatian and English to ensure clarity and mutual understanding. Once the necessary approvals were obtained, the property was successfully registered in the land registry. The family completed the process with peace of mind, knowing every detail was legally sound and properly documented.

Why Choose Kontić Legal for Real Estate Legal Advice

Extensive experience working with individual buyers and landlords
Clear communication and bilingual support
Personalized approach to each client and property
Local knowledge with a national network of trusted experts

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I buy a house in Croatia if I don’t live there? Yes, foreigners can buy property in Croatia. EU citizens have almost the same rights as Croatian citizens, while non-EU buyers typically need permission from the competent Ministry.
Do I need a Croatian bank account to buy property? While not legally required, it is highly recommended.
Is it safe to buy property that isn’t registered in the land registry? No. Always verify land registry status and insist on legal clarification before proceeding.
What is the property transfer tax rate in Croatia? In most cases, it is 3% of the market value. Exceptions may apply.
Do I need a lawyer to buy property in Croatia? Yes. Legal representation protects you from costly mistakes.
Can foreigners buy real estate in Croatia? Yes, with certain conditions depending on nationality.
What is included in a real estate due diligence check? Ownership, construction legality, mortgages, encumbrances.
How long does the property purchase process take? Typically 2–6 weeks for residential properties.
Is bilingual legal support available? Yes, in both Croatian and English.

Serving Clients Across Croatia

Based in Zagreb, Kontić Legal supports individuals throughout the country — including in Zadar, Split, Rijeka, Karlovac, Šibenik, Knin, and surrounding coastal and inland areas. Local knowledge combined with national coverage ensures clients receive relevant, on-the-ground advice.

Contact Kontić Legal for Reliable Real Estate Legal Advice

Whether you’re purchasing your dream apartment, selling inherited land, or managing rental agreements, Kontić Legal offers professional, transparent, and individualized legal support.

Contact us to schedule a consultation and ensure your property transaction is handled with confidence and care.