Property Sale Process

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Apartment Sale Process

Selling an apartment is an important multi-phase process that requires good preparation, clear documentation, and knowledge of all steps – from valuation to the final transfer of ownership. Whether you're selling independently or with agency support, this guide will help you avoid mistakes and achieve a secure and successful transaction.

1. Property valuation

  • Engage a licensed appraiser or consult a real estate agency.
  • Consider location, square footage, condition, floor, furnishings, parking, and other factors.
  • A realistic price accelerates the sale and reduces the risk of long waiting periods.

2. Documentation preparation

  • Property deed (cadastral extract) – proof of ownership and encumbrances.
  • Purchase contract, inheritance decree, or gift deed.
  • Certified statement from co-owners (if any) and spouse consent.
  • Tax certificate (no debt to the state).
  • Certificate of settled utilities (electricity, water, heating...)
  • Technical documentation (project plan, use permit, if available).
  • Certificate from the building council regarding settled obligations.

3. Decision on sales method

  • Independent sale – you advertise, negotiate, and organize viewings yourself.
  • Agency sale – professionals handle advertising, negotiations, and legal procedures (commission 2–4%).

4. Property advertising

  • Quality photographs and detailed description of the apartment.
  • Posting on leading portals (Halo Oglasi, KupujemProdajem, Nekretnine.rs, 4zida...)
  • Promotion through social media and agency networks.

5. Viewings and negotiations

  • Organize viewing appointments with interested buyers.
  • Negotiate price and payment terms.
  • Verify buyer's seriousness (funds, credit, urgency).

6. Preliminary contract (optional but recommended)

  • Signed after agreement on price and terms.
  • Buyer pays a deposit (usually 10%).
  • The preliminary contract can be notarized for legal security.

7. Finalizing the purchase agreement

  • The contract is prepared in writing and notarized in the presence of both parties.
  • Includes party details, property description, price, payment method, deadline for vacating/handover.

8. Payment and transfer of ownership

  • Payment can be cash (through bank), non-cash, or via mortgage loan.
  • After contract certification, the buyer submits a request for ownership registration in the cadastre.
  • Required documents: certified contract, proof of tax payment, identification documents.
  • Cadastral registration takes up to 15 working days – only then does the buyer become the official owner.

9. Apartment sale costs

  • Property transfer tax – paid by buyer (2.5% of value).
  • Notary certification of contract – about 1% of price, shared between parties.
  • Agency commission (2–4%), as agreed.
  • Tax and other certificates – minimal costs.
  • Capital gains tax (15%) – if seller hasn't owned the property for more than 10 years and if sale price exceeds purchase price.

10. Tips for sellers

  • Verify there are no outstanding debts (utilities, taxes, electricity...)
  • Be realistic about price – overly high prices slow down sales.
  • Prepare the apartment – tidy and neutral interiors attract buyers.
  • Collaborate with professionals – agencies and notaries protect your interests.
  • Keep all documentation.
  • Beware of scams – verify buyer identity and avoid suspicious offers.
  • Don't sign anything you haven't read and understood.

11. Process duration

  • Average apartment sale time in Belgrade is 2–6 months (depends on location, price, advertising quality, buyer readiness).
  • Legal part (from preliminary contract to cadastral registration) takes 1–2 months.

12. Advantages of engaging an agency

  • Expertise and experience – avoiding mistakes and accelerating the process.
  • Greater visibility – professional advertising across multiple channels.
  • Buyer verification and filtering of non-serious offers.
  • Legal security – assistance with documentation, contracts, and registration.
  • Time savings – organization of viewings, negotiations, and the entire process.
  • Objective valuation.

Contact us

If you're planning to sell an apartment in Belgrade or anywhere in Serbia, Tukodi Agency is at your disposal. We provide complete services – from valuation, advertising, finding buyers, to legal regulation and property handover. Call us and schedule a free meeting with our agents!