Buying an apartment with a loan is like running a marathon: be patient and take it step by step, and you reach your own home.
Looking for a new home is an emotional and important step. A housing loan can easily smother the joy with percentages, instalments and currencies; here is our advice for every new buyer.
1. Check your finances and creditworthiness
Know where you start and what you have. Do not bet on one horse: compare current offers from several banks. If you want a financial adviser to show you all current housing-loan options, we warmly recommend Kreditni savetnik.
2. Set aside the down payment
The down payment is usually 20% of the price, including the deposit (kapara); in some cases a bank approves 10%. Also plan for the loan processing costs and the notary costs for the preliminary contract, the contract and the pledge statement.
3. Find a suitable, registered property
Only registered apartments guarantee that a housing loan can be obtained. For a new build, at least 80% of the building must be complete before you apply. Agree the date and amount of the deposit with the seller.
4. What if the property has a mortgage?
A mortgage registered on the property is not a bogeyman; the purchase of such a property can be regulated, as our blog explains.
5. How to start your search
Look at the whole offer of registered properties in Belgrade, Novi Sad and Niš: City Expert listings are clear and detailed, and you can set the right filters.
Frequently asked questions
Do existing loans and credit cards affect creditworthiness?
Yes, they can reduce the amount a bank will approve.
Can I buy an unregistered apartment with a housing loan?
Registration is an important condition; always check the legal status first.
