Non-EU/EEA nationals need to obtain permission from the Ministry of Justice to purchase property in Denmark, and must confirm that the property will be used for their personal residence throughout the year. EU/EEA citizens do not need to obtain permission to buy property, but must confirm in a statement attached to the deed that it will be used for year-round residence.

Most people in Denmark find their properties with the assistance of an estate agent, and use a solicitor to conduct the legal work involved. The house purchase process usually takes several months.

It is possible to borrow finance to purchase property in Denmark from banks or mortgage credit institutions, normally for up to 80% of the property value. It is advisable to obtain a buyer's certificate from the lender which confirms the finance arrangement, so that you can make a quick offer if you find a suitable property.

Many sellers have a property report compiled by a building expert and will make this available to all prospective buyers. The report gives details of the physical condition of the property and any defects. If no property report is provided, the seller can be held responsible for a period of 20 years for any serious defects which emerge. If the buyer requests a transfer deed, the cost of which is shared between them and the seller of the property, a property report must be produced. A transfer deed provides insurance for the buyer against any faults or defects that may arise, and insurance for the seller against any claims from the buyer.

When an offer is accepted and the purchase agreement has been signed by the buyer and seller, the buyer should place a deposit of 5% of the purchase price with the estate agent. There is a cool-off period of 6 days after signing the purchase agreement during which the buyer can annul the agreement, and may be required to pay the seller 1% of the purchase price.

The balance of the purchase price will be payable on the agreed closing date for the sale of the property. Various documents are involved in the purchase of a property in Denmark, which will be transferred to the buyer via their solicitor. These include

- the land certificate, which sets out the rights and obligations relating to the property, a cadastral map of the property;
- the operating permit which confirms that the property meets building regulations;
- the BBR-owner information which is issued by the local council and provides details of the property such as its size, history, dimensions, location and technical conditions.
- the property tax note, issued annually and setting out the expected level of the following year's taxes and related property expenses.
- energy rating and energy plan, showing the current heating, electricity and water consumption and giving guidance on how to reduce these.

You will be required to take out buildings and fire insurance on the property if the purchase is financed with a mortgage.