How can a foreign citizen acquire property in Hungary?

As a private individual (purchasing in their own name)

Possibility:

EU citizens can freely purchase residential property without special permission.
Non-EU citizens (e.g. American, Israeli, Ukrainian, Russian, Chinese, Asian, etc.) need to obtain permission from the Government Office. This is a routine process, typically taking about 1 to 1.5 months.

Loan options:

It is difficult, but not impossible, for foreigners to get a loan as a private individual.
- A Hungarian salary, residence permit, or local connection (e.g., company, family member) can help.
- Typically, a higher down payment is required (30–50%).
- Loan interest rate is approximately a fixed 6%, with a 10-year interest period, up to 20 years.

What should the website include if the target audience is foreign private individuals?

“Why Budapest?” section (which we have already started):

“How to purchase property as a foreigner?” – Practical guide

This should include:
🔹 Legal background

As an EU citizen, no special permit is required (only notification).
Non-EU citizens: A county government office permit may be necessary (2–4 weeks, formal procedure).
A Hungarian lawyer is required for the purchase.

🔹 Steps:

🔹 Timeline:

Duty: 4% one-time, based on the purchase price
Lawyer’s fee: 0.5–1% + VAT
Property management / Airbnb management: 10–20% (optional)
Taxation on rental income: ~15% personal income tax, but many discounts can be applied