15 Essential Tips for Buying a House in 2025

Did you know that an average couple saves almost six years to gather the down payment needed for their first home? As real estate experts, we understand that tips for buying a house are essential in 2025, especially when 30% of bank clients prefer fixed-rate loans for security.

Buying your first home is an experience that will change your life, but it shouldn't be overwhelming or stressful. That's why we've prepared this comprehensive guide, based on our extensive experience in the real estate field.

Additionally, with programs like "New Home," which offer minimum down payments of just 5% for homes up to €70,000, your options are more accessible than ever. In this article, we will present 15 essential tips that will help you make the best decision for your future.

Budget Evaluation and Financial Planning

For a solid financial planning, the first step is to carefully analyze your current financial situation. First, monthly income and expenses need to be evaluated to determine the amount available for a potential mortgage payment.

Calculating the Total Available Budget

A practical rule for calculating the budget is to multiply the family's income by 5 years, from which you subtract 10% for purchases with own funds or 20% in the case of a loan. Additionally, the monthly rate should not exceed 25-30% of current income to maintain a healthy financial balance.

Hidden Costs in Buying a House

In addition to the property's price, there are additional costs that account for approximately 10% of the transaction value:

• Real estate agent commission: 3-4% plus VAT

• Notary fees and registration in the Land Register: 2-3%

• Real estate transfer tax: 3.5%

• Evaluation and technical expertise costs

Financing Options in 2025

The "New Home" program offers in 2024 a ceiling of 1 billion lei. For new homes, you can obtain a guarantee of up to 60% for loans between €59,501-119,000, with a minimum down payment of 15%. In the case of old homes, the guarantee is 50% for loans up to €66,500, with a minimum down payment of 5%.

Therefore, mortgage interest rates have become more affordable, with the best offer on the market currently reaching 4.9%, compared to 5.75% at the beginning of the year.

Choosing the Right Area

Location is one of the most important factors in the home-buying process. In 2024, the demand for homes in the peripheral areas of major cities has significantly increased, especially in Bucharest, Brașov, and Cluj-Napoca.

Essential Criteria in Choosing a Location

The main aspects that influence the buying decision are:

• Access to public transportation and infrastructure

• Proximity to schools and medical facilities

• Level of pollution and presence of green areas

• Safety and security of the neighborhood

• Average cost per square meter in the area

Evaluating Local Amenities

Currently, neighborhoods like Drumul Taberei attract the most interest, with approximately 5 potential buyers for each available apartment. Moreover, areas with access to the metro and efficient public transportation register a constant demand.

Additionally, the presence of commercial spaces, pharmacies, and other essential services significantly influences the property's value. Consequently, neighborhoods with developed infrastructure, such as Militari and Berceni, offer an attractive price-quality ratio, with average prices of €1,222/m² and €1,286/m², respectively.

Neighborhood Development Potential

Developing areas, such as Theodor Pallady and Pipera, present interesting opportunities for long-term investments. However, it is essential to evaluate urban development plans and potential infrastructure projects in the area.

Neighborhoods with high appreciation potential are characterized by the constant development of facilities and infrastructure improvements. In 2025, peri-urban areas are becoming increasingly attractive due to the simpler process of obtaining building permits and the development of public transportation.

Checking Legal Documents

Legal documents are the foundation of a secure real estate transaction. Firstly, careful verification of these documents prevents potential problems and ensures a risk-free purchase.

Necessary Documents for the Transaction

To finalize a real estate transaction, the following essential documents are required:

• Identification documents of the involved parties

• Property ownership deed

• Extract from the Land Register for authentication (valid for 10 days)

• Fiscal certificate from the city hall

• Energy performance certificate

• Complete cadastral documentation

Verifying the Legal Status of the Property

Furthermore, the legal status of a property must be analyzed from three main perspectives: legal, technical, and economic. Therefore, it is essential to verify the existence of any encumbrances, mortgages, or disputes that could affect the property rights.

The Notary's Role in the Process

The public notary plays a crucial role in ensuring the legal security of the transaction. They verify the identity and capacity of the involved parties, draft the contract in accordance with legal provisions, and authenticate the documents. Additionally, the notary handles the registration of the contract at the Cadastre and Real Estate Publicity Office, thereby ensuring the opposability of the deed against third parties.

The extract from the Land Register for information costs 20 lei and can be obtained online. For the transaction's safety, the notary verifies all legal details and ensures that the deed meets legal requirements, thereby helping to avoid long-term legal issues.

Professional Technical Inspection

Professional technical expertise is a crucial step in the property acquisition process. Firstly, this evaluation provides a clear picture of the property's actual condition and potential issues that may arise in the future.

Structural Aspects to Verify

Structural evaluation includes a detailed analysis of the construction's fundamental elements. Moreover, the authorized technical expert checks:

• Condition of the foundation and load-bearing structure

• Degree of concrete reinforcement and minimum coverage of the rebar

• Presence of cracks or deformations in walls and ceilings

• Quality of foundation waterproofing

Assessing Installations

Therefore, the technical inspection includes a meticulous verification of all vital installations. The expert analyzes the functionality and safety of electrical installations, the condition of plumbing systems, and the efficiency of the heating system. Additionally, the presence and quality of ventilation systems are checked, which are essential for preventing moisture problems.

Technical Expertise Report

The final documentation includes a comprehensive evaluation that establishes the building's degree of assurance against seismic actions and recommends specific technical solutions. The report provides valuable information about:

• Current technical condition of the construction

• Recommendations for necessary improvements

• Cost estimates for potential repairs

The cost of technical expertise varies depending on the construction's complexity and the required laboratory analyses. However, investing in professional technical expertise can prevent significant expenses in the future and ensure an informed decision in the acquisition process.

Evaluating Energy Efficiency

In the context of rising energy costs, energy efficiency has become a decisive factor in purchasing a home. According to recent studies, residential buildings consume approximately 40% of total energy and generate 36% of CO2 emissions in the European Union.

Energy Certificate

The energy performance certificate is an official document that assesses a building's energy consumption, classifying it into an energy class from A (most efficient) to G. Moreover, this document is mandatory when selling or renting a property, with a validity of 10 years.

Maintenance Costs

Energy expenses are one of the most significant maintenance costs of a home. Therefore, an energy-efficient house can reduce consumption by up to 40-50% by using energy class A appliances. Additionally, proper insulation of walls can generate savings of up to 40% on heating bills.

Solutions for Energy Efficiency

To improve energy efficiency, experts recommend the following measures:

• Thermal insulation using modern materials such as polyurethane foam or mineral wool

• Installation of energy management systems that allow monitoring and optimizing consumption

• Use of renewable energy sources, such as solar panels or heat pumps

Modern heating and cooling systems can reduce energy costs by up to 25% compared to traditional systems. Additionally, implementing smart technologies for monitoring consumption can bring additional savings of up to 20% through functions like Geofencing and identifying open windows.

Real Estate Market Analysis

The real estate market in Romania is undergoing a dynamic period in 2025, with significant changes in buyer preferences and price trends.

Market Trends in 2025

Currently, the demand for residential properties has increased by 3% in the first quarter of 2025 compared to the same period last year. Moreover, the volume of mortgage loans reached 40 billion lei by October 2024, double the amount recorded the previous year.

Regional Price Comparison

Average prices per square meter vary significantly between major cities:

• Cluj-Napoca: €2,824/m² (13% increase)

• Bucharest: €1,899/m² (16% increase)

• Brașov: €1,991/m² (20% increase)

• Timișoara: €1,684/m² (11% increase)

Therefore, Brașov has recorded the highest price increase in the last year, becoming the second most expensive city after Cluj-Napoca.

Timing of Purchase

Additionally, experts suggest that 2025 represents an opportune window for purchases, provided a thorough financial analysis is conducted. The purchasing power of Romanians in the real estate market has improved, reducing the time needed to buy a home from 8 years in 2019 to less than 7 years currently.

However, the market will be influenced by the presidential elections in the spring and potential fiscal changes. For an informed decision, it is essential to monitor interest rate trends and participate in real estate fairs to get a complete picture of the available offers.

Price Negotiation

Success in negotiating the price of a house depends on thorough preparation and understanding the market dynamics. Research shows that sellers are willing to reduce the price by up to 15% when buyers present solid arguments and concrete data.

Negotiation Strategies

For effective negotiation, the chosen timing is crucial. Favorable periods for buyers are the beginning or end of real estate projects, when developers offer discounts to attract clients or to finalize sales. Moreover, seasonality can significantly influence negotiating power, with crisis or holiday periods offering better opportunities.

Key Points in the Offer

Essential elements for a convincing offer include:

• Proof of financial solvency or pre-approval of the loan

• Flexibility regarding the move-in date

• Price justification with concrete market examples

• Availability for quick transaction completion

Mistakes to Avoid in Negotiation

Therefore, experience shows that negotiating exclusively with a single seller significantly reduces negotiating power. Additionally, lack of adequate preparation and poor communication can compromise the chances of success. Experts recommend avoiding multiple visits to the same property, as this can reveal exaggerated interest and weaken the negotiating position.

Neighborhood Verification

Neighborhood relationships are a fundamental aspect in choosing a new home. Firstly, a united community can bring significant benefits, including a safer and more pleasant living environment.

Relationship with Neighbors

For quick integration into the new community, experts recommend:

• Participating in community events

• Maintaining cleanliness in common areas

• Initiating dialogue with neighbors

• Respecting coexistence norms

Condominium Rules

Moreover, condominium owners must adopt a written regulation that establishes the rules for using common areas. This document is initiated by the association president and adopted with the agreement of the majority of the owners. Therefore, the regulation cannot impose unjustified restrictions on the owners' rights.

Noise and Other Potential Issues

The noise level is a crucial aspect in evaluating a property. During the day, the maximum allowed level is 55 dB outside the home, while at night (23:00-7:00) the limit decreases to 45 dB. For interior spaces, the limits are even stricter: 35 dB during the day and 30 dB at night.

In case of disagreements, owners can report to the association president or the competent authorities. Additionally, the legal distance between buildings must be at least 60 cm from the property line, an important aspect to verify before purchase.

Evaluating Renovation Potential

Before purchasing a property, evaluating the renovation potential can significantly influence the final decision and the necessary budget. According to construction experts, a detailed analysis of modification possibilities prevents future problems and optimizes the investment.

Modification Possibilities

For apartments, modifications allowed without authorization include:

• Repairs and replacements of interior and exterior carpentry

• Interior painting and coatings

• Replacement of plumbing and electrical installations

• Changing floors and finishes

Therefore, any structural modification that affects load-bearing walls or the building facade requires special approval. Additionally, reconfiguring the space by demolishing or building new walls requires obtaining the corresponding permits.

Estimated Renovation Costs

Firstly, the costs for the complete renovation of an apartment start at approximately €100 per square meter. Moreover, for a two-bedroom apartment, the minimum required budget is €9,000, while for three bedrooms, the amount can reach €20,000.

Installations represent approximately 30% of the total renovation cost. For financial safety, experts recommend adding a 10-15% percentage to the initial budget for unforeseen expenses.

Necessary Permits

The Urban Planning Certificate is the first step in obtaining the building permit, with a validity of 30 days from submission. For structural modifications, the necessary documentation includes:

• Technical project and execution details

• Specific approvals and agreements

• Technical expertise for structural modifications

• Layout and partitioning plan

The fee for the building permit is calculated as 0.5% of the declared work value. Additionally, the permit is valid for 12 months, with the possibility of extending for another year, against an additional fee of 30% of the initial value.

Smart Home and Technology

Currently, smart home technology is fundamentally transforming the way modern homes operate. Studies show that 59% of Romanians expect smart technologies to become standard in new homes, and 40% consider these systems an effective way to reduce energy consumption.

Technological Infrastructure

The foundation of a smart home system consists of robust Wi-Fi connectivity and the network that interconnects all devices. Moreover, technologies like Bluetooth, Z-Wave, and Zigbee ensure efficient communication between equipment. Edge computing processing and 5G connections allow smart devices to operate without delays.

Available Smart Systems

The main smart systems that can be integrated into a modern home include:

• Smart thermostats with automatic temperature adjustment

• Lighting systems adjustable according to the time of day

• Security devices with real-time monitoring

• Access control solutions via smartphone

Implementation Costs

The investment in a smart home system varies depending on the complexity of the desired functions. For a basic setup, costs start at €5,000, while a complete system can reach over €15,000. Therefore, 63% of Romanians allocate a budget of up to €3,000 solely for smart appliances.

Although initial costs may seem high, long-term savings through energy efficiency and consumption monitoring can reach 8% of monthly expenses. Additionally, 39% of potential buyers are willing to pay more for a house equipped with smart technology.

Safety Aspects

Security is a decisive factor in choosing a new home, with 63% of buyers considering this aspect a priority. Firstly, a safe neighborhood significantly contributes to the quality of life and the property's long-term value.

Assessing the Area's Safety

Modern residential neighborhoods include community areas supervised around the clock, creating a protected environment for families. Moreover, well-designed public spaces reduce the risk of criminal activity and improve residents' quality of life.

Security Systems

A proactive surveillance system is the foundation of modern security. The essential main components include:

• Surveillance cameras with automatic intrusion detection

• Alarm systems connected to a monitoring center

• Intelligent access control

• Perimeter lighting with motion sensors

Evacuation Plan

Therefore, each residential complex must have a clear evacuation plan in case of emergency. The plan includes marked evacuation routes, established assembly points, and periodic drills to familiarize residents with emergency procedures.

For maximum safety, developers must obtain fire safety approval and implement a fire safety scenario. Additionally, the evacuation plan must be visibly displayed on each level and in rooms, with clear markings for evacuation routes.

Property Sustainability

Choosing sustainable materials and systems for a house is an investment in the planet's future. Buildings are responsible for 40% of total energy consumption and 36% of CO2 emissions in the European Union.

Eco-Friendly Materials

Firstly, natural materials such as FSC-certified wood, natural stone, and clay offer multiple benefits for residents' health and the environment. Moreover, these materials require less energy for production and transportation compared to artificial materials.

Renewable Energy Systems

Photovoltaic panels transform solar energy into electricity, significantly reducing monthly bills. They can generate enough energy to power a house for a year after just a few weeks of operation. Therefore, air-water heat pumps are an efficient solution for heating and cooling, eliminating the need to use fossil fuels.

Environmental Impact

The nZEB standard requires new constructions to cover at least 30% of their energy needs with renewable sources. For sustainability certification, LEED and BREEAM systems evaluate building performance in nine categories, including energy, land use, and pollution.

The construction industry produces three times more waste than all households in Great Britain, with approximately 20 million tons ending up in landfills. To minimize this impact, circular design allows for the dismantling and reuse of materials in new constructions.

Moving Process

Efficient organization of the moving process can save valuable time and resources. Studies show that careful planning reduces the time needed for moving by up to 40%.

Planning the Move

Firstly, the decluttering process before moving can significantly reduce costs and effort. Therefore, experts recommend starting the planning at least two weeks before the moving date. Moreover, creating a detailed list of tasks and deadlines ensures a smooth transition to the new home.

Relocation Costs

Costs for moving services vary depending on the volume of goods and distance:

• Local move: 250-1,300 lei

• Intercity transport: 3,000-3,500 lei

• Packing services: 350-500 lei

• Packing materials: 300-500 lei

Realistic Timeline

For an efficient move, experts recommend the following timeline: evaluation and sorting of goods (3-5 days), packing (2-3 days), and actual transport (1 day). Consequently, 90% of residential moves are completed in a single day when managed by professionals.

Additionally, the optimal time for moving is the beginning of the week, when transport services are more accessible and available. For properties in Spain, planning must consider local specifics and include additional time for administrative formalities.

Property Insurance

Financial protection of the real estate investment begins with choosing the right insurance. Firstly, Romanian legislation mandates two main types of property insurance.

Types of Necessary Insurance

The mandatory PAD insurance covers three major risks: earthquakes, floods, and landslides. Moreover, for type A homes (constructions made of reinforced concrete, metal, or wood), the insured amount is 100,000 lei, with an annual premium of 130 lei, while for type B homes (unfired brick constructions), the insured amount is 50,000 lei, with a premium of 50 lei.

Risk Assessment

The optional insurance complements the PAD protection and covers:

• Fires and explosions

• Storms and hail

• Installation damages

• Theft and vandalism

• Liability to third parties

Annual Costs

For an apartment valued at €40,000, the annual premium for optional insurance ranges between €34 and €88. Therefore, for a villa valued at €100,000, the annual cost ranges between €82 and €215. In the case of properties in Spain, it is essential to verify specific local requirements and adjust coverage accordingly.

Statistics show that only 37% of homes in Romania were insured in 2013, although insurance represents essential protection against unforeseen events. For maximum safety, experts recommend combining the PAD policy with comprehensive optional insurance.

Post-Purchase Legal Aspects

After completing the purchase, owners must fulfill a series of specific legal obligations. Firstly, registering the property with tax authorities must be done within 30 days of authenticating the contract.

Legal Obligations of the Owner

Owners are responsible for maintaining the property in good condition, including repairs and maintenance. Moreover, any changes in family structure or alterations in space usage must be notified to the association president within 10 days.

Taxes and Fees

For 2025, the property tax is calculated by applying a rate between 0.08% and 0.2% on the taxable value. Additionally, owners benefit from a reduction of up to 10% for full payment in the first quarter.

Rights and Responsibilities

Owners have the following essential rights:

• Participating in the association's decisions

• Requesting information about common expenses

• Challenging the calculation of contribution rates within 10 days

• Accessing the association's documents

Therefore, owners must allow access to the apartment for urgent repairs with a 15-day notice. In the case of damages caused to common property, the responsibility for repairs lies with the owner who caused them.

For properties in Spain, it is essential to verify specific local regulations and comply with the administrative requirements of the respective region. Documents and fees may vary depending on the autonomous community where the property is located.

Inmoluk, Your Real Estate Agent in Altea, Costa Blanca, Spain

For purchasing a property in Costa Blanca, Inmoluk stands out as a trusted partner with over 20 years of experience in the local real estate market. Firstly, the agency offers access to the best properties in Altea and Costa Blanca, ensuring a simple and secure purchasing process.

Moreover, Inmoluk differentiates itself through its passion for personalized services and extraordinary client experiences. The agency provides a wide range of properties in Altea, tailored to various needs and lifestyles.

Therefore, choosing an experienced real estate agency like Inmoluk allows you to take advantage of opportunities in the local market. The Altea area, known as the Mediterranean Treasure, offers a warm and temperate climate, with six kilometers of coastline and picturesque beaches.

Currently, thirty-five percent of Altea's population comes from other European countries, demonstrating the attractiveness of this destination for international investors. The comprehensive services offered by Inmoluk include detailed consultancy, assistance in the purchasing process, and post-sale support for property management.

For the safety of your investment, the Inmoluk team ensures a thorough verification of each property and offers consultancy at no additional cost. Additionally, the agency facilitates access to comprehensive information about the local real estate market, enabling informed decisions in the purchasing process.

Comparison Table

FAQs

Q1. What are the main aspects to consider when setting a budget for purchasing a house? When calculating the budget, evaluate monthly income and expenses, consider hidden costs (approximately 10% of the transaction value), and ensure that the monthly rate does not exceed 25-30% of income. A practical rule is to multiply the family's income by 5 years and subtract 10-20% for purchases.

Q2. How can I evaluate the energy efficiency of a property before buying? Check the property's energy certificate, which classifies efficiency from A (most efficient) to G. Evaluate heating and insulation systems. An energy-efficient house can reduce consumption by up to 40-50%. Consider implementing smart technologies and renewable energy sources for additional savings.

Q3. How important is professional technical inspection in the purchasing process? Technical inspection is crucial for assessing the property's actual condition. An authorized expert will check the structure, foundation, installations, and provide a detailed report. This step can prevent significant future expenses and help you make an informed decision by providing a clear picture of potential issues and associated costs.

Q4. What are the main types of insurance required for a newly acquired property? In Romania, two main types of insurance are required: mandatory PAD insurance (which covers risks such as earthquakes, floods, and landslides) and optional insurance (which covers additional risks like fires, theft, and installation damages). It is recommended to combine both for complete protection.

Q5. What legal aspects should I consider after purchasing a property? After purchasing, you must register the property with tax authorities within 30 days. You are responsible for maintaining the property in good condition and notifying the homeowners' association of any changes. Additionally, you should be aware of annual taxes and fees, as well as your rights and responsibilities as a property owner.