How much does buying property in Egypt cost on top of the price?

The short answer

The price on a listing is the amount for the unit itself. Buying a home adds costs that are paid to the developer, to government offices and, if you used one, to a broker. Their size and who pays them are set by the contract and by the law, not by the listing. This guide names each item so you can ask for every one of them in writing.

Which costs does the listed price not cover?

The list includes the maintenance deposit, the clubhouse fee where the compound has a club, the registration of the contract, the transfer fee on a resale, the notary fee for any power of attorney, and a broker's commission if you used a broker. Not every item applies to every deal, and the contract states which ones do.

What is the maintenance deposit?

It is an amount held for the upkeep of the compound, paid at or before handover. Deposits differ from one compound to another, so read the clause in your contract to know its value and the date you pay it.

What is a clubhouse fee?

Some compounds charge a yearly fee for the clubhouse and the shared facilities. Check the contract for the amount, who pays it and the period it covers.

Who pays the registration and the transfer?

The sale contract is registered at the Real Estate Publicity Department (الشهر العقاري), and the fee is set by the government. In a sale from a developer, check the clause that says who pays the registration. On a resale, the transfer (التنازل) has its own fee, explained in the question on transfer fees. Your share of any charge is the one written in the contract; do not assume it.

What about tax and notary fees?

The real estate disposal tax is set by law. Who bears it and its value are matters for the Tax Authority, and this guide does not give a rate. A power of attorney is certified by a notary, and that certification has its own fee. Ask the developer or your lawyer for a written list of every government charge with its amount before you sign.

Is a broker's commission part of the cost?

If you used a broker, the commission is agreed between you and the broker. Ask who pays it, and get the agreement in writing rather than relying on a spoken promise.

How should I compare two offers?

Put both offers in one table: the price, the down payment, the maintenance deposit, the clubhouse fee, your share of the registration, your share of any transfer fee and the commission. Compare the totals rather than the headline price, because a lower price with higher charges can cost you more.

General guidance: check with the official authority before you act.