How to buy property in Österreich
A practical guide for buyers (including foreigners): step-by-step process, purchase costs, annual taxes, financing and quirks in Österreich. Informational, verified August 2026 — not legal advice.
Can foreigners buy?
EU citizens buy freely. Non-EU need approval from the state land-transfer authority; Tirol/Salzburg restrict secondary residences even for EU buyers.
The process, step by step
- 1Offer via the agent (Kaufanbot — binding!)
- 2Contract drafted by a lawyer/notary (Treuhänder escrow)
- 3State approval if required
- 4Payment via escrow
- 5Grundbuch registration
Purchase costs (on top of the price)
| Transfer tax | 3,5% |
| Land-registry entry | 1,1% |
| Agent (capped) | max 3% + TVA |
| Lawyer/notary | ~1–2% |
Annual taxes: Modest Grundsteuer.
Financing as a non-resident
Strict KIM rules: ~20% minimum down, repayments under 40% of income.
Quirks that surprise buyers
- ⚠️ A signed Kaufanbot binds you — never sign one casually
- ⚠️ For flats, check the building's repair reserve (Rücklage)
- ⚠️ Secondary residences in alpine areas are often banned — check FIRST
Frequently asked questions
- Can I buy property in Österreich as a foreigner?
- EU citizens buy freely. Non-EU need approval from the state land-transfer authority; Tirol/Salzburg restrict secondary residences even for EU buyers.
- What costs and taxes do I pay when buying in Österreich?
- Transfer tax: 3,5%; Land-registry entry: 1,1%; Agent (capped): max 3% + TVA; Lawyer/notary: ~1–2%. Modest Grundsteuer.
- Can I get a mortgage in Österreich as a non-resident?
- Strict KIM rules: ~20% minimum down, repayments under 40% of income.