I'm sure you know already that if you're not Bulgarian you'll have to form a company because of the land ownership laws here. It's really simple and it opens up loads of advantages. For example, a company needs to be formed for a B&B business as well but this can be the same company.

You should, of course, find a lawyer who can speak English. You may find one yourself or I can give you a list of lawyers for you to contact. As this is a private sale, whoever you choose make sure they don't offer to act as a real estate agent because they'll charge you between 3 and 5%. Instead insist on a fixed fee and choose the best deal. Make sure that whatever you sign is in Bulgarian AND English, side by side, and that it's signed in front of a Notary Public. They're not expensive but are 100% safe.

Taxes are low here because the government wants people to spend. Council taxes are really, really low, especially when compared to UK rates. You'll be pleased to know that business taxes are a flat 10% of profits. VAT is 20% if you wish to be registered and compulsory after 50,000 leva (approx 21,000 GBP) of income.

As you know, low costs are one of the compelling reasons that so many Brits, and others, decide to live here. This also applies to any supplies and maintenance that you need to buy. By charging slightly lower than UK rates but having costs that are a fraction of the UK, the profits should be good.

In this region you can easily buy high quality meat, vegetables, dairy products and wine directly from the farmers thus making a massive saving and also helping with the continuation of organic methods. Wine is especially good and can be bought in bulk from wineries or from many of the villagers around the area who make wine themselves.

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