By Helen Daniilidou
05/09/2025
In the competitive world of global real estate, every financial detail matters.
While a property’s list price captures the initial eye, the true cost of acquisition lies in the taxes and fees that follow.
In this comprehensive comparison, we shed light on one of the most significant yet often overlooked expenses: stamp duty.
By meticulously analyzing the costs for a typical €300,000 property across key European markets, we present a compelling case for a destination that not only offers an exceptional quality of life but also an unparalleled financial advantage.
Welcome to the new standard for savvy international real estate
Stamp Duty & Transfer Tax Breakdown
- Cyprus: For a property valued at €300,000, the stamp duty is approximately €515. This is based on a progressive scale of 0.15% on the first portion and 0.20% on the remaining amount.
- Portugal: The stamp duty (Imposto do Selo) is a fixed 0.8% of the property value, which amounts to €2,400. It’s important to note that this is in addition to the Property Transfer Tax (IMT), which would be much higher.
- UK (England): For a standard buyer, the stamp duty for a property worth approximately €300,000 (£257,000) is around €3,353. This is calculated on a tiered basis.
- Spain (New Build): The stamp duty (AJD) on a new-build property varies by region but is typically around 1.2%, which totals €3,600. Resale properties are subject to a different and generally higher tax.
- Greece: The real estate transfer tax, which is the equivalent of a stamp duty, is 3% of the property’s value, plus a 3% municipal tax, for a total of approximately €9,270.
- Malta: The stamp duty is a flat 5% of the property’s value, which amounts to €15,000.
- France: Stamp duty for a typical resale property is high, around 5.8% of the value. For a €300,000 property, this totals approximately €17,400. New properties have a much lower rate.
As the chart and breakdown illustrate, Cyprus offers a significant financial advantage in terms of property acquisition taxes when compared to the other countries listed.
