In recent years, cryptocurrency has increasingly been used for large transactions, including real estate purchases. In Europe, the first transaction models now allow buyers to purchase homes and apartments using Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), and stablecoins (USDT, USDC).
In this guide, we will cover:
✔ How to buy real estate with cryptocurrency
✔ Which European countries accept crypto payments
✔ Benefits and risks of crypto real estate transactions
✔ Real-world property prices available for crypto purchases
How to Buy Real Estate with Cryptocurrency?
There are three main ways to complete a real estate transaction using cryptocurrency:
🔹 Direct Crypto Payment – The seller accepts Bitcoin or Ethereum directly as payment.
🔹 Through Crypto Platforms (Propy, BitPay, Crypto Real Estate) – These platforms convert crypto into fiat currency before finalizing the transaction.
🔹 Through Real Estate Agencies – Some agencies, like Kensington Finest Properties and CryptoHomes, specialize in crypto transactions.
✅ In 2022, Portugal became the first EU country to legally allow real estate purchases directly in BTC, without conversion to euros.
Best European Countries to Buy Real Estate with Cryptocurrency
1. Portugal – The Crypto Real Estate Leader
📍 Lisbon, Algarve, Porto
✔ Officially allows property transactions in BTC and ETH
✔ Simple legal framework for crypto real estate purchases
✔ Tax incentives for crypto investors
💰 Property Prices:
- Apartment in Lisbon – €300,000 (≈5 BTC)
- Villa in Algarve – €750,000 (≈12 BTC)
2. Spain – A Growing Market for Crypto Buyers
📍 Barcelona, Marbella, Malaga
✔ Transactions require conversion into euros
✔ Increasing number of crypto-friendly real estate deals
💰 Property Prices:
- Apartment in Barcelona – €400,000 (≈6.5 BTC)
- House in Marbella – €1,200,000 (≈19 BTC)
3. Germany – A Regulated and Secure Market
📍 Berlin, Munich, Frankfurt
✔ Requires notary approval for transactions
✔ Strong liquidity in the real estate market
💰 Property Prices:
- Apartment in Berlin – €500,000 (≈8 BTC)
- House in Munich – €1,500,000 (≈24 BTC)
4. United Kingdom – Luxury Real Estate in Bitcoin
📍 London, Manchester, Cambridge
✔ Crypto transactions are widely accepted for high-end properties
✔ Established legal structure for digital asset purchases
💰 Property Prices:
- Apartment in London – £1,000,000 (≈21 BTC)
- House in Cambridge – £750,000 (≈16 BTC)
5. Dubai (UAE) – The World’s Crypto Real Estate Hub
📍 Dubai Marina, Palm Jumeirah
✔ Many developers accept BTC, ETH, and USDT
✔ No income tax or capital gains tax on crypto transactions
💰 Property Prices:
- Apartment in Dubai Marina – $500,000 (≈8 BTC)
- Villa in Palm Jumeirah – $2,000,000 (≈32 BTC)
Benefits of Buying Real Estate with Cryptocurrency
✅ Fast transactions – Crypto transfers take minutes instead of days for bank transactions.
✅ Lower fees – Eliminates intermediaries, reducing transaction costs.
✅ Easy international purchases – Investors can buy real estate from anywhere in the world.
✅ Increased privacy – Crypto payments allow for more discreet transactions.
Risks and Limitations
❌ Legal uncertainty – Some European countries do not have clear regulations for crypto real estate transactions.
❌ High volatility – Bitcoin prices fluctuate, which can affect property pricing.
❌ AML/KYC compliance – Most countries require verification of funds’ legal origins.
❌ Limited sellers – Not all property owners are willing to accept crypto payments.
Future of Crypto Real Estate in Europe
🔹 Growing number of crypto transactions – More agencies and developers now accept BTC and ETH.
🔹 Improved regulation – European governments are working on clear guidelines for crypto transactions.
🔹 Blockchain-based contracts – Smart contracts will streamline real estate transactions, making them faster and more secure.
Conclusion
Crypto real estate transactions are already a reality in Europe. Some countries, like Portugal and the UK, are leading the way, offering flexible regulations and great opportunities for investors.
📍 Top 5 Countries for Buying Property with Cryptocurrency:
✔ Portugal – Direct BTC transactions without fiat conversion
✔ Spain – Increasing popularity among crypto investors
✔ Germany – Strong regulatory framework for secure transactions
✔ United Kingdom – Luxury properties available for Bitcoin payments
✔ Dubai – The world’s most crypto-friendly real estate market
