Buying from abroad

Buying property with power of attorney

You do not have to be in Bosnia to buy property. Someone you trust can sign for you with a power of attorney. We explain how, and follow the process to the end.

Where buyers abroad most often get stuck

  • Problem

    You cannot come to sign

    The notary appointment rarely matches your holiday.

    What we do: With a power of attorney, the person you choose signs: a family member or a lawyer.

  • Problem

    You do not know what power of attorney is needed

    A badly worded one means another round and lost time.

    What we do: We tell you what it should contain and where to certify it, and the notary in Bosnia confirms the details of your case.

  • Problem

    Certification abroad

    It is unclear whether a document certified abroad is valid in Bosnia.

    What we do: It is usually certified by a notary or at the embassy of Bosnia and Herzegovina; one certified by a foreign notary usually needs an apostille.

  • Problem

    Fear of losing control

    Someone else signs, but it is your money.

    What we do: You see and approve the contract before signing, and we keep you informed at every step.

What you get

  • An explanation of what the power of attorney should contain
  • Guidance on where and how to certify it
  • Coordination with the notary in Bosnia
  • A review of the contract with you before signing
  • Follow-up on the land registry entry

How it works

  1. 1

    Decide who signs

    A family member, a friend or a lawyer in Bosnia.

  2. 2

    Power of attorney

    Draft it and have it certified as advised, by a notary or at the embassy.

  3. 3

    Contract at the notary

    The notary draws up the contract, you review it, and your representative signs.

  4. 4

    Registration

    We follow the land registry entry until the property is in your name.

Frequently asked questions

Who can be my representative?
Someone you trust, usually a family member or a lawyer. The notary confirms the requirements in your case.
Do I need an apostille?
For a power of attorney certified by a foreign notary, usually yes. If certified at the embassy of Bosnia and Herzegovina, usually not. Check with the notary before certifying.
Can I still come in person later?
Yes. The power of attorney is only an option; you can sign yourself.

Get in touch and we start from your situation

Tell us where you live and what you are looking for. We usually reply within a few hours.