Whether you’re searching for a sun-soaked villa in Spain, a sleek city apartment in Berlin, or a ski chalet in the French Alps, working with a knowledgeable estate agent can make all the difference. But how much do estate agents actually charge across Europe? And what exactly are you paying for?
This guide breaks down typical estate agent commissions in Europe, offers real-life price examples, explains what these fees cover, and shows why professional guidance is essential—especially in the luxury market.
Estate Agent Fees Across Europe: The Quick View
| Country | Typical Fee (% of price) | Who Pays? | VAT Included? |
|---|---|---|---|
| UK | 0.5%–3% | Seller | No (20% added) |
| France | 4.5%–8% | Seller | Yes (20%) |
| Germany | 3.57%–7.14% | Buyer & Seller Split | Yes (19%) |
| Spain | 3%–10% | Seller | Included |
| Italy | 2%–7% | Buyer & Seller Split | Varies |
| Portugal | 5% | Seller | Yes (23%) |
| Croatia | 6% | Buyer & Seller Split | Yes (25%) |
| Bulgaria | 3%–6% | Buyer | Yes (20%) |
| Greece | 4% (2% + 2%) | Buyer & Seller | Yes (24%) |
| Netherlands | 1%–2% | Buyer & Seller | Yes (21%) |
| Sweden | 1%–2% | Seller | Included |
| Switzerland | 3%–5% | Seller | Yes (7.6%) |
Source: Tranio,
Metropola,
The Connexion
What Does This Look Like in Real Terms?
- Spain (Costa del Sol): €1,000,000 villa → Fee (5%) = €50,000 (paid by seller)
- France (Provence): €850,000 estate → Fee (6%) = €51,000 (paid by seller)
- Croatia (Dubrovnik): €600,000 home → Fee (6%) = €18,000 each (buyer & seller)
- Bulgaria (Bansko): €150,000 apartment → Fee (3%) = €4,500 (paid by buyer)
- UK (London): £2,000,000 penthouse → Fee (1.5%) = £30,000 (paid by seller)
Why Estate Agents Deserve Their Commission
Here’s what those fees actually pay for:
- Market Expertise: Local pricing, demand and legal knowledge.
- Legal Guidance: Especially helpful in countries with bureaucratic processes.
- Skilled Negotiation: Can save you thousands in deal structuring.
- Exclusive Listings: Often have off-market or first-look properties.
- End-to-End Support: From utilities to furnishing and even visas.
Regional Highlights
- Croatia: €400k–€800k homes; fees shared 50/50; agents crucial for zoning laws.
- Bulgaria: €50k–€200k properties; lowest fees in Europe; buyer pays commission.
- Portugal: Golden Visa market; 5% seller-paid fees; strong demand in Lisbon and Algarve.
- Germany: Berlin at €5,500/m²; dual commission common; high transparency.
- Italy: High-end villas & farmhouses; dual commission typical; agent registry localised.
Tips for Working with Agents Abroad
- Always verify the agent’s licence or registration.
- Clarify fee structure and VAT inclusion up front.
- Ask for a service breakdown before signing contracts.
- Negotiate commission in competitive areas.
FAQs About Estate Agent Fees in Europe
- Can I negotiate the commission rate?
- Yes, especially in the UK, Spain, and Italy. Less so in France or Germany.
- Are there hidden costs?
- Sometimes. Watch for VAT, legal, and registry costs. Ask for a full estimate.
- Do I need an agent if I speak the language?
- Possibly not, but agents offer deeper local insight, legal protection, and network access.
- Will the agent help with visa or relocation paperwork?
- Many luxury agents provide these concierge-style services, particularly in Portugal and Greece.
Final Word: Agents Aren’t Just a Cost—They’re an Investment
If you’re entering the European luxury property market, a qualified estate agent is your greatest asset. Yes, fees can run into the tens of thousands—but for that, you get transparency, local know-how, and peace of mind.
When investing hundreds of thousands (or millions) abroad, expert guidance is worth every cent.
