Nestled on the Kvarner Gulf, Opatija is a treasure chest of Croatian history, culture, and natural beauty. Its roots date back to the Roman period, and it is brimming with beautifully preserved historical sites such as St. James's Church, Villa Angiolina, and Maiden with the Seagull. Framed by the Učka Mountains on one side and the sparkling blue Adriatic Sea on the other, Opatija's unique geographical location only enhances its allure as a luxury real estate location.
The Opatija Property Market
The current exclusive property market in Opatija is dynamic and stable. The demand for luxury homes and apartments is strong, and although the supply is quite competitive, there is a steady stream of high-end properties coming onto the market.
Holding its stability, the political and economic situation in Opatija renders it a secure destination for lux real estate investments.
Upon buying a house in Opatija, the average real estate commission for a buyer can vary but tends to settle around 3%, and similar rates apply to sellers. Additional costs should be taken into account, including the transfer tax, notary fees, inspection, and legal costs.
The transfer tax on private property in Opatija is around 4%. Opatija's wealth tax on private homeownership is relatively low, alleviating the financial burden on those living the luxury lifestyle.
Financial Considerations
In Opatija, you do need to pay tax on profit made when selling a privately-owned home, whether it's your main residence or a holiday home.
The corporate tax on profits for registered companies in Opatija sits at a standard rate of 18%. Income tax for registered residents varies moderately, with a maximum rate of 40% for the highest earners.
Mortgage requirements entail a substantial deposit versus relatively less foreign capital; however, this varies amongst lending institutions.
Living Luxuriously in Opatija
Luxury homes are commonly found in the sought-after residential areas of Lungomare and Ucka Mtn, where stunning sea views are the norm.
The city can be accessed by rail and the Adriatic highway, and it's just 90km from Croatia's capital, Zagreb. The nearest international airports are Rijeka Airport and Pula Airport.
Within the vicinity are several top-tier educational institutions - including Opatija Music School, and the Faculty of Tourism and Hospitality Management.
The Opulent Opatija Lifestyle
Opatija resides in the Primorje-Gorski Kotar County, with a population of just over 11,000.
Its environs are a blend of azure sea waters, lush landscapes, and prominent mountainous terrain, making it a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. From water sports, hiking to tennis, Opatija has it all.
Shopaholics can indulge in luxurious outlets such as Kamelija and Nautic Shop Barka. The town also hosts an array of high-quality restaurants, famous hotels like Amadria Park Hotel Milenij, and vibrant nightlife options.
Opatija hosts numerous cultural and sporting events annually, including the Opatija Carnival and the Liburnia Jazz Festival. The town is dotted with galleries, museums, and theaters such as Juraj Šporer Art Pavilion and Croatian Museum of Tourism.
In terms of healthcare, Opatija doesn't disappoint with facilities like Thalassotherapia Opatija and Opatija Polyclinic closeby.
The city's public infrastructure is well-developed, and there is easy access to an assortment of amenities, contributing to the high quality of life for residents in Opatija.