Notary fees on new-build: how much do they cost?
Published on June 18, 2026 · Notary fees
Notary fees are one of the most misunderstood items in a property purchase. Good news for buyers of new-build homes: they are considerably lower than for existing homes. Here is what they cover, how they are calculated and how much you save.
In brief
In new-build property, notary fees represent roughly 2 to 3 % of the purchase price, compared with 7 to 8 % for existing property. The difference is explained by the tax portion (transfer duties), which is much smaller for new builds.
What do "notary fees" consist of?
The term is misleading: the notary's remuneration is only a small part of it. There are three components:
| Component | Role | Weight |
|---|---|---|
| Duties & taxes | Tax portion passed on to the State and local authorities | The heaviest |
| Disbursements | Costs advanced by the notary to prepare the file | Low |
| Notary's fees | The notary's remuneration, set by a national scale | Moderate |
It is the tax portion that makes the whole difference between new and existing property.
Why is it cheaper for new builds?
On a sale in the off-plan state (VEFA), the tax component (the largest) is considerably reduced. Disbursements and fees remain governed by the same national scale. The result: a total of roughly 2 to 3 % instead of 7 to 8 %.
How much do you save?
The gap with existing property often amounts to several thousand euros. On the same budget, those savings can be redirected to your project:
- Additional contribution to strengthen your bank application.
- Fitted kitchen, often not included in new builds.
- Furniture, particularly useful for a furnished rental investment (LMNP).
- Cash reserve to settle in with peace of mind.
Can they be financed?
In many cases, the bank includes notary fees in the financing, depending on your contribution and profile. As the exact amount depends on the property and the notary, it is better to use a simulator than a theoretical calculation when preparing your budget.
Notary fees and PTZ
The reduced fees on new builds and the zero-interest loan are two distinct advantages that can be combined. Together, they lighten your initial outlay twice over: lower fees on one side, interest-free financing on the other.
Conclusion
In new-build homes, the reduced notary fees (2 to 3 %) are an automatic advantage that lowers your initial outlay and frees up budget for reinvestment. Work out the exact amount, and check with your adviser whether they can be included in your financing.
