Top Local Real Estate Agencies In Hungary

Published on October 3, 2025 and written by Cyril Jarnias

Hungary, and particularly its capital Budapest, is attracting an increasing number of foreign real estate investors. With its rich architectural heritage, affordable cost of living, and dynamic property market, this Central European country offers excellent opportunities. However, to ensure a successful investment, it’s crucial to work with the right local professionals. In this article, we’ll review the best local real estate agencies in Hungary, provide you with the keys to choosing the one best suited to your project, and detail the expected costs.

Top 5 Must-Know Real Estate Agencies in Hungary

Here’s a selection of the most reputable real estate agencies in Hungary, along with their strengths and weaknesses:

1. Engel & Völkers Budapest

• Prestigious international network
• Specialist in high-end properties
• Excellent knowledge of the local market
• Multilingual personalized service

• High agency fees
• Few offerings in entry/mid-range properties

2. Otthon Centrum

• Largest agency network in Hungary
• Wide selection of properties across all price ranges
• Presence in many cities

• Less personalized service
• Few English-speaking agents

3. Duna House

• Second largest network in Hungary
• Good national coverage
• Practical website with numerous listings

• Service quality varies by agency
• Less specialized in foreign investment

4. Tower International

• Specialist in foreign investment
• Service in English and other languages
• Comprehensive support (legal, tax, etc.)

• More limited property catalog
• Sometimes high fees

5. Horizon Realty

• Independent, human-scale agency
• Excellent knowledge of Budapest
• Personalized service in English

• Less selection than large networks
• Limited presence outside Budapest

Secrets to Finding the Perfect Gem Among Hungarian Real Estate Agencies

Choosing the right real estate agency is crucial for the success of your investment in Hungary. Here are some tips to make the right choice:

Clearly Define Your Needs

• Your budget
• The type of property you’re looking for
• Desired location
• Your investment goals (short-term rental, long-term rental, resale, etc.)

Check Accreditations

Make sure the agency is a member of the Hungarian Real Estate Agency Federation (MAISZ). This affiliation guarantees a certain level of professionalism and ethics.

Evaluate Experience and Reputation

Look for online reviews, ask for references from other foreign investors. An agency that has been established in the Hungarian market for a long time will generally have better knowledge of local nuances.

Test Responsiveness and Professionalism

Contact several agencies with specific questions about the Hungarian real estate market. Assess the quality and speed of their responses. A good agent should be attentive, responsive, and able to provide you with detailed information.

Examine the Range of Services Offered

Prioritize agencies offering comprehensive support, particularly for legal and tax aspects specific to foreign investors. Some agencies even offer property management services, which can be a plus if you don’t live locally.

Compare Fees

Request a detailed quote of agency fees and compare them. However, be careful—the cheapest agency isn’t always the best option. Evaluate the overall value for money.

Decoding Agency Fees: What You Need to Know to Avoid Bad Surprises

Agency fees in Hungary can vary considerably depending on the services offered. Here’s an overview of the main fees to expect:

Transaction Fees

For property purchases, agency fees are typically between 3% and 5% of the sale price. These fees are usually the buyer’s responsibility, but this can be negotiated with the seller.

Property Management Fees

If you opt for property management services, monthly fees are typically between 8% and 15% of collected rents. This percentage may vary depending on the services included (tenant search, inventory, work management, etc.).

Tenant Placement Fees

For finding a tenant, agencies often charge the equivalent of one month’s rent. Some offer packages including lease drafting and inventory.

Legal and Tax Follow-up Fees

Some agencies specialized in foreign investment offer legal and tax support. These services are usually billed separately, either as a flat fee or by the hour.

Renovation and Work Fees

If the agency manages renovation work for you, they will typically take a commission on the work amount (between 5% and 10%).

Concierge Fees

For short-term rentals like Airbnb, some agencies offer concierge services (guest welcome, cleaning, etc.). These fees can represent 20% to 30% of rental income.

Keys to a Successful Partnership with Your Hungarian Real Estate Agency

To get the most out of your collaboration with a real estate agency in Hungary, here are some additional tips:

Clearly Communicate Your Expectations

Explain your investment project, constraints, and long-term goals in detail. The more the agency understands your needs, the better they can advise you.

Stay Involved in the Process

Even if you delegate much of the work to the agency, remain active in decision-making. Request regular reports and don’t hesitate to ask questions.

Be Mindful of Cultural Aspects

The way business is conducted in Hungary may differ from what you’re used to. Your real estate agent can help you navigate these cultural differences to avoid misunderstandings.

Prepare for Hungarian Market Specifics

The Hungarian real estate market has its particularities, especially in terms of legislation and taxation. Make sure your agency informs you well about all these aspects.

Consider a Long-Term Relationship

If you plan other investments in Hungary, it may be advantageous to build a lasting relationship with an agency. Some offer preferential rates to their loyal clients.

In conclusion, investing in Hungarian real estate can be very profitable, but it’s crucial to work with the right professionals. Take the time to choose a real estate agency that understands your needs and can effectively support you throughout your project. With the right partner, you’ll maximize your chances of making a successful and worry-free investment in this dynamic Central European market.