INTERNATIONAL BUYERS

Buying property in Belgium as a foreign buyer: where to start

International buyers can make the process easier by separating property research, financing, legal review and relocation planning.

Start with the property, not assumptions

Choose the region and type of home first. Your preferred city, intended use and financing plan can affect which professionals and rules matter to you.

Build a local professional team

For a purchase, identify a Belgian notary early and ask your lender or adviser to explain the financing process for your circumstances.

Budget for regional differences

Property taxes and transaction rules can differ between Brussels, Flanders and Wallonia. Avoid relying on a single national rule of thumb when calculating your total acquisition cost.

Plan the move separately

Buying a property and becoming a resident are different questions. If you are relocating, research immigration, registration, employment and tax issues through official sources.

Ask for documents early

Your notary and other qualified advisers can tell you which documents and checks apply to the specific transaction.

Belgian Foreign Affairs guidance confirms the relevance of notarial services to real-estate purchases and describes certain arrangements for people residing abroad.