Notary fees, also known as acquisition costs, are an essential component of the total cost of a real estate purchase. In April 2025, an increase in these fees is expected, primarily affecting transactions in the resale property market. Let’s analyze the reasons behind this increase and its implications for buyers.
Why Are Notary Fees Increasing?
The main reason for this increase is the revaluation of transfer taxes (DMTO), a tax collected by departments on real estate transactions. This increase aims to compensate for the decline in local government tax revenues, mainly due to the abolition of the housing tax.
Currently, the departmental tax varies between 3.80% and 4.50% of the purchase price. From April 2025, several departments plan to increase this rate, raising the legal ceiling from 4.50% to 5.00%.
📉 Evolution of DMTO Revenues (in billions of euros)
| Year | Revenues |
|---|---|
| 2021 | 14.6 |
| 2022 | 13.2 |
| 2023 | 11.4 |
| 2024 | 10.0 (estimate) |
Impact on Real Estate Transactions
Example of the Impact of Increased Notary Fees
| Property Price | Current Fees (5.80%) | Fees with Increase (6.00%) | Difference |
| €200,000 | €11,600 | €12,000 | +€400 |
| €300,000 | €17,400 | €18,000 | +€600 |
| €400,000 | €23,200 | €24,000 | +€800 |
📊 Comparison of Notary Fees in France and Europe
| Country | Notary Fees (%) |
| France | 5.80% – 6.00% |
| Germany | 3.50% – 5.00% |
| Spain | 1.00% – 3.00% |
| Italy | 2.50% – 4.00% |
Which Buyers Are Affected?
- Resale property transactions: strongly impacted by the increase in DMTO.
- First-time buyers: may be exempt depending on local decisions.
- New property buyers: less affected, with reduced notary fees at 2% – 3%.
📍 Departments That Have Already Approved the Increase
| Department | Planned Increase |
| Paris | +0.50% |
| Côte-d’Or | +0.50% |
| Others | Pending Decision |
How to Anticipate This Increase?
- Buy before April 2025 to avoid the DMTO increase.
- Opt for new property to benefit from reduced fees.
- Negotiate notary fees, which can be reduced by 20% for transactions over €100,000.
- Include these costs in your budget to avoid surprises.
📌 Tip: Simulate your notary fees in advance to adjust your budget accordingly!
Conclusion
The expected increase in notary fees in 2025 highlights the importance of careful financial planning for real estate buyers. By staying informed and adopting a well-thought-out purchasing strategy, it is possible to mitigate the impact of this increase on your real estate project.
📌 Stay updated on legislative developments by regularly checking our updates! Contact us for a free and personalized valuation of your property to maximize your selling opportunities!
