How do I buy property in Montenegro as a foreigner? What is the process?

The acquisition process follows a clear sequence. You begin by identifying a property through a licensed agent, followed by due diligence conducted by a Montenegrin lawyer who verifies ownership in the cadastre, checks for any liens or encumbrances and confirms building permits. A preliminary agreement is then signed with a reservation deposit, typically ten percent of the purchase price. Before final completion, foreign buyers must obtain a Montenegrin tax identification number from the Tax Administration. The final sales contract is executed before a public notary and must be in Montenegrin, with a certified court interpreter present if the buyer does not speak the language. Payment is made by bank transfer, mandatory for amounts above ten thousand euros. Transfer tax and legal fees are paid, and your lawyer registers your ownership in the land registry. The full process from offer acceptance to legal completion typically takes six to fourteen weeks.