Professional Legal Services in Bulgaria
Trusted Guidance for Individuals, Investors, and Companies
At Dimitrovi Legal, we combine deep local expertise with an international perspective to serve clients from around the world. Whether you’re relocating, investing, doing business, or navigating personal legal matters in Bulgaria, our team delivers clear, results-driven legal solutions tailored to your needs.
Speak with our English-speaking lawyers today.
Property Sale
When selling real estate, the transaction requires significantly more actions on the part of the seller. If you are the seller, you must ensure that you have all the necessary documents for your property and that there are no legal issues related to it, in order to avoid future legal claims.
If you want to be certain that the other party will have no claims against you and to facilitate the process, you can rely on our services:
Review and analysis of property ownership and available documentation;
Assistance in obtaining documents (tax valuations, certificates of encumbrances, cadastral sketches, certificates of no outstanding liabilities, and others);
Removal of liens, mortgages, claims, and other encumbrances;
Drafting and revision of reservation (earnest money) agreements, preliminary contracts, draft notarial deeds, etc.;
Participation in negotiations with the other party;
Representation before state institutions;
Attendance during the signing of preliminary and final contracts.
Property Purchase
The purchase of real estate is one of the most important events in a person’s life. However, in addition to positive emotions, the process may involve numerous problems and future risks, including purchasing property from a person who is not the actual owner, acquiring property encumbered by mortgages, liens, or other burdens, purchasing property involved in legal disputes, or property whose documents were not issued by the competent authorities in accordance with the law.
To facilitate the process and ensure that the property you acquire does not involve legal issues, we offer the following services:
Verification of property ownership (including analysis of all ownership documents from the first owner to the current one and identification of any issues in the chain of title);
Verification of encumbrances, ownership restrictions, and legal claims;
Verification and assistance with participation in public auctions;
Assistance in obtaining property-related documents (copies of ownership documents, construction documentation, certificates of encumbrances, tax valuations, cadastral sketches, etc.);
Verification of construction compliance with national legislation;
Proposal of the most appropriate method for acquiring the property (property purchase, share purchase, contribution in kind, etc.);
Drafting and revision of deposit agreements, preliminary contracts, and draft notarial deeds;
Participation in negotiations with the other party;
Representation before state institutions;
Attendance during the signing of preliminary and final contracts.
Property Lease/Rental
In everyday life, people often underestimate the importance of concluding a lease agreement compared to buying or selling property. However, a lease agreement creates a long-term legal relationship between the parties, which requires careful review.
For this purpose, we offer the following services:
Verification of property ownership and registered encumbrances that may create issues for future users;
Drafting and revision of lease agreements to protect the rights of the parties and provide for appropriate penalties;
Participation in negotiations with the other party.
Establishment of Right in Rem
Real estate transactions are not limited to the transfer of ownership.
Civil law recognizes various types of transactions involving real estate.
All such transactions require verification of ownership, the existence of encumbrances and disputes related to the property, as well as the drafting of different types of contracts.
Therefore, we offer a wide range of services, including:
Drafting and revision of contracts for establishing building rights;
Drafting and revision of contracts for rights of way and installation of networks and facilities;
Drafting and revision of contracts for establishing rights of use;
Drafting and revision of contracts for allocating the use of real estate.
Change of Land Use and Zoning
A change in the use and zoning of a property is required when you wish to use your property in a manner different from its originally designated purpose—for example, to develop agricultural land or to convert a residential property into a commercial one.
If you intend to carry out construction on the property, applicable zoning must be in place, and your future project must comply with the designation set out in the Detailed Development Plan (DDP), as well as the construction plan. Depending on the condition of the property, it may be necessary to initiate a procedure for approval or amendment of the DDP.
We assist you throughout the entire process by:
Verifying the existence of zoning and the construction parameters of the property (building density, floor area ratio, minimum landscaped area, cornice height, etc.);
Determining whether the proposed change is permissible under the law and planning documents;
Consulting on the most appropriate legal and administrative approach;
Preparing and coordinating the required documentation;
Communicating with municipal and state authorities on your behalf.
Our goal is to save you time, reduce risk, and avoid unnecessary expenses by ensuring lawful and secure use of your property.
Construction
Construction of real estate is a complex process, where each step is significant in regards of ownership rights over the building.
In addition to a thorough analysis of the property on which construction will be carried out, the process requires legal assistance from the very beginning until completion of the building.
For this purpose, we offer the following services:
Examination of property ownership;
Examination of encumbrances (mortgages, liens, pledges, etc.);
Examination of limited real rights;
Information on the designated use and permanent use of the property;
Information on construction parameters;
Information on underground facilities located on the property;
Information on zoning and its implementation;
Examination of restrictions on ownership rights;
Proposals for the most appropriate method of acquisition;
Assistance in obtaining property-related documents;
Drafting contracts for the transfer of ownership rights;
Establishment of easement rights;
Representation before state institutions and utility service providers;
Drafting and revision of preliminary and final contracts for establishing building rights;
Drafting and revision of contracts for construction works, supply of goods, brokerage, design, and others;
Participation in negotiations and meetings between the parties.
Identification of Property Owner
Investors often find the ideal land plot but face a major problem—uncertainty about who the owner is and with whom negotiations can be conducted.
This is where we step in.
Through legal research and checks in the relevant registers and institutions, we identify the owner of the land plot and assist in establishing contact in order to:
Make a purchase offer;
Initiate negotiations for acquisition; or
Negotiate compensation in exchange for establishing a building right.
Our goal is to connect the parties and create the conditions necessary for the transaction to become possible.
Property Valuation
Property valuation is a key step prior to any transaction or investment. We help you obtain a realistic view of the property’s market value before making a commitment.
By analyzing the legal status, market environment, and potential of the property, we provide a basis for:
Assessing whether a transaction is advantageous;
Conducting informed price negotiations;
Planning an investment or development.
Our goal is to minimize risk and support informed decision-making.
Legal Representation in Civil and Administrative Proceedings
When you need to protect your rights before a court or an administrative authority, it is essential to have a clear plan and a reliable legal partner.
We assist and represent clients in civil and administrative proceedings, striving for effective protection of your interests, risk minimization, and achievement of the best possible outcome. We work with a focus on strategy, clear communication, and timely client updates at every stage of the process.
Inheritance under Law and by Will
Inheritance matters are often associated with strong emotions, complex legal relationships, and the risk of future disputes.
We help you navigate the inheritance process, whether by law or by will, by providing assistance with:
Clarification of inheritance rights and ownership shares;
Acceptance or renunciation of inheritance;
Settlement of relations between heirs;
Prevention or resolution of inheritance disputes.
Our goal is to ensure that the process is clear, secure, and as calm as possible for you.
Company Incorporation and Changes in Corporate Details
Starting or developing a business requires a solid legal foundation from the very beginning.
We assist with the incorporation of commercial companies, as well as with subsequent changes such as the sale of shares (equity interests), changes of directors, registered address, scope of business activity, capital increases and reductions, transformations, and others.
Our services include:
Drafting all necessary documents for company formation and for changes in corporate circumstances;
Registration of circumstances and publication of acts in the Commercial Register;
Assistance with commercial banks for the opening of a capital subscription account.
We take care of the proper preparation of documents and registrations, so you can focus on growing your business.
Contract Drafting and Legal Consultation
Every contract is a matter of balancing interests and risk.
We draft, review, and revise contracts tailored to the specific situation and the client’s needs, and we also provide legal consultations on a wide range of matters from everyday and business practice. Our goal is to help you make informed decisions and to prevent problems before they arise.
What Our Clients Say
“As a foreign investor, the Bulgarian construction process was difficult to understand at first. Real Estate Inspection helped me navigate zoning issues, building permits, and contractual matters with the construction company. Their advice was clear, practical, and always timely. I felt confident that my investment was legally protected throughout the project.”
K.H., Tel Aviv, Israel
Private Investor – Residential Development
“I didn’t really know how things work in Bulgaria, so Real Estate Inspection just sorted everything for the house purchase, step by step. They helped set up the company, talked me through the construction bits in plain English, and put me in touch with a solid estate agent. They also lined up a surveyor and stayed on top of things right through to completion. Honestly, couldn’t have asked for more.”
J. H., West Yorkshire
Buying a house
“As I am unfamiliar with Bulgarian procedures, Real Estate Inspection took care of everything step by step. They helped organize the company registration, clearly explained construction-related requirements, and introduced me to a trusted broker. Truly the extra step”
E.P., from Ukraine currently in Varna
Freelancer & Long-Term Resident in Bulgaria
FAQ
Delays and defects are common issues in construction projects. Bulgarian law provides legal remedies depending on the circumstances. We assist clients with delay claims, defect liability, contract enforcement, and dispute resolution.
Yes. We regularly communicate with municipalities, regulatory bodies, and public authorities on behalf of our clients, including matters related to permits, compliance, inspections, and administrative proceedings.
Absolutely. Legal due diligence verifies ownership, identifies encumbrances, checks zoning and construction legality, and uncovers risks that may not be visible to buyers. It is one of the most important steps in any property transaction.
Yes. We assist clients with residential purchases, commercial properties, land acquisitions, and investment properties throughout Bulgaria.
Yes. We regularly assist foreign clients remotely, including reviewing documents, coordinating with notaries, and representing clients through powers of attorney.
Yes. We assist with company formation, structuring, registration, and ongoing legal compliance for foreign entrepreneurs and businesses operating in Bulgaria.
While not legally mandatory, having a lawyer is strongly recommended. Construction projects in Bulgaria involve complex permitting, contracts, and regulatory requirements. A construction lawyer helps ensure compliance, protects your investment, and reduces the risk of delays, fines, or disputes.
Yes, foreigners can legally build property in Bulgaria, but there are specific rules regarding land ownership, company structures, and zoning. In many cases, construction is carried out through a Bulgarian company. Legal advice is essential to ensure the project is structured correctly from the beginning.
Construction typically requires a building permit issued by the local municipality, along with approved architectural and engineering plans. Depending on the project, additional approvals may be required for environmental, infrastructure, or heritage-related matters.
Yes. We draft and review construction contracts, including agreements with contractors, subcontractors, architects, and suppliers. Properly drafted contracts help define responsibilities, timelines, payments, and remedies in case of disputes.
In many cases, yes — especially for construction projects or certain types of property ownership. We advise clients on the most suitable legal structure based on their specific goals.
Yes. We regularly work with international clients and provide clear legal advice and documentation in English.