How to Buy Property in Moldova or Romania While Living in the UK, Germany or France

For Moldovans and Romanians living abroad, buying a property back home can feel complicated. Distance, paperwork, and trust are common concerns. Fortunately, modern technology and simplified legal procedures have made the process easier than ever. Here is a complete step-by-step guide on how to buy safely and efficiently while living abroad.

1. Start With Online Research

The first step is to familiarise yourself with prices, neighbourhoods, and property types. Websites offering virtual tours, photo galleries and detailed descriptions help you understand the market without traveling. Focus on cities and areas growing in demand—Chișinău, Iași, Cluj, Timișoara, Brașov, Oradea—as well as developing villages or suburban zones.

2. Use Trusted Local Agents

A reliable real estate agent is essential when purchasing from abroad. Agents can visit properties on your behalf, film walk-through videos, and offer honest feedback about building quality, legal status, and infrastructure. Always choose registered agencies with clear reputations and transparent communication.

3. Check Ownership and Legal Documents

Before making any commitment, verify:

• cadastral documents

• property boundaries

• ownership history

• land use category

• availability of utilities

• construction permissions

Your agent or a lawyer can request these from cadastral offices. Never rely only on verbal information—always require documents.

4. Use Power of Attorney (Procură)

Expats often complete purchases without traveling by issuing a power of attorney to a trusted person. This document allows someone to:

• sign contracts

• submit documents

• pay fees

• register ownership

It can be created at any local embassy or consulate, or at a notary abroad. This is the most common and convenient method for expat buyers.

5. Remote Viewing and Video Inspections

Many agencies now offer:

• live video calls from the property

• drone footage for land

• 360° virtual tours

• neighbourhood overview videos

This gives you a realistic representation of the place without needing to fly home.

6. Secure Payments

Payments should be made through:

• bank transfers

• secure escrow methods

• official notary-supervised transactions

Avoid cash or informal agreements. Make sure every step is documented.

7. Notary and Final Agreement

Once all terms are agreed, the notary prepares the sale contract. With a power of attorney, the transaction can be completed even if you’re thousands of kilometers away. After signing, the property is registered officially under your name.

8. Post-Purchase Support

Property management, renovation, and rental services are available for expats who cannot personally manage the property. Your agent can assist you in finding trusted partners.

Conclusion

Buying property back home while living abroad has never been easier. With the right team and correct legal steps, you can invest confidently and securely in Moldova or Romania—even from the other side of Europe.