I Can't Return to Lithuania – How Do I Sell My Apartment There?

It is no secret that a large number of Lithuanians currently live abroad. Some left for work, others for family or studies, while some simply found better living conditions elsewhere. However, living abroad does not mean your affairs in Lithuania come to a halt. One of the most common questions is: How can I sell my apartment if I physically cannot return to Lithuania? The good news is that modern technology and professional assistance make it possible to successfully sell your apartment remotely, even if you are thousands of kilometers away from your property.

Outline the Workflow and Deadlines

The first step is having a clear plan. Some tasks can be done simultaneously, while others require specific documents to be prepared first. Therefore, it is crucial to outline your entire workflow: from drafting a power of attorney to signing the final agreement. This helps avoid stress and unexpected surprises. Selling an apartment from abroad requires discipline, but everything becomes easier when you know exactly what steps lie ahead. If you hire an experienced real estate agent, most of the organizational burden is lifted, allowing you to focus on more important things.

Finding a Buyer: Doing It Yourself vs. Hiring a Professional

The next stage is finding a buyer. Here, you need to decide whether you will look for one yourself or hire a real estate agent. Finding a buyer remotely is possible, but it often becomes a challenge. You have to coordinate viewings, manage communication, and deal with keys or current tenants. If the apartment is empty, you must ensure someone is available to show the property. A professional agent resolves these issues for you—from taking photos to negotiating with buyers. This not only saves you time but also helps you sell the property at a price that meets your expectations.

Authorize Someone to Sign the Notarized Agreement

Since you cannot physically travel to Lithuania, you will need to authorize another person to sign the sales agreement at the notary's office on your behalf. Preparing a power of attorney is simple, but getting an apostille usually takes time. Without this certification, a power of attorney drafted abroad will not be valid in Lithuania. Therefore, take care of this as early as possible—ideally, as soon as you decide to sell the property. Alternatively, if you have a valid electronic signature, selling your apartment remotely becomes even easier, as the notarized agreement can be signed online.

What Must Be Included in the Power of Attorney?

The power of attorney must clearly specify the property being sold, the bank accounts for payment, and the personal details of both you and your authorized representative. All details must match perfectly—even the smallest mistake can cause delays.

Important Note: If you changed your surname while living abroad, be sure to use the exact name linked to your bank account. Does this sound pedantic? Believe it or not, such minor details can sometimes cause the funds from the sale to be withheld or returned to the buyer's account. Always double-check everything in advance to ensure the transaction proceeds smoothly.

Consider the Tax Implications

One of the most frequently asked questions is whether you have to pay taxes after selling an apartment. According to the current regulations (as of 2025), if you have owned the property for more than 10 years, you do not need to pay taxes. However, if the ownership period is shorter, a tax obligation arises. Since you live abroad, you will likely not be able to use the tax exemption related to your declared primary residence. Furthermore, it is highly recommended to check whether the sale will be subject to additional taxation in your current country of residence. Do not forget about the translation of the notarized agreement—some foreign banks require proof of the origin of the funds.

Is It Better to Sell Now in 2025 or Wait Until 2026?

If tax obligations are not an issue for you, you can sell right now. However, 2026 could be an interesting year for the real estate market. Planned changes, such as the unlocking of pension funds, might temporarily (or even permanently) drive up prices. Additionally, a new 5-year ownership tax exemption will take effect, encouraging some owners to sell their properties. Due to the geopolitical situation and shifting tax rules, some people might choose to sell earlier than they originally intended. Therefore, it is important to make a decision based on your personal situation and market sentiment. If you are unsure about current trends in the Lithuanian real estate market, seek the advice of a trusted real estate expert.

Why Is It Worth Consulting a Specialist?

If you are reading this article to the end, it means you are looking for reliable information and want to avoid mistakes. Theoretically—and even practically—you can do everything yourself; the internet is full of free advice. However, in real-world practice, when you need to coordinate documents, buyers, and notaries, small mistakes can be costly. I work with clients who live abroad, so I know exactly how to ensure a smooth remote sale. I have helped many people successfully sell their property in Lithuania without stress or unnecessary travel. If you want everything to go smoothly, professionally, and reliably—let's talk.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I sell an apartment in Lithuania while living abroad?

Yes, selling an apartment while living abroad is entirely possible—either through a power of attorney or remotely using an electronic signature.

Does the power of attorney need an apostille?

Yes. Without an apostille, a power of attorney issued abroad is legally invalid in Lithuania.

How long does the remote sales process take?

On average, it takes 3 to 6 weeks, depending on document preparation and how quickly a buyer is found. A lot depends on the timeframe for obtaining the apostille.

Can I sign the agreement electronically myself?

Yes, if you have a valid electronic signature, notaries allow you to sign transactions remotely.

Can a real estate agent take care of everything for me?

Yes, an experienced agent can organize and oversee the entire process—from setting up the power of attorney to the final notarized sales agreement.

Do I have to pay taxes after selling the apartment?

If you have owned the property for more than 10 years—no. If the duration is shorter, a tax obligation arises (based on 2025 tax regulations).

How much do a real estate agent's services cost?

Prices depend on the property's value and location usually 3 percent. However, the agent's work usually pays for itself, as they handle all the logistics for you, saving you the expense and hassle of traveling back to Lithuania.

Looking for reliable representation in Vilnius?

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