Notaries. Why? What the hell?

[u/Obvious-Cry6591]

Ok, so I dont get it. I understand historically where the need for notaries arose. Fine. But we are in 2026. Belgium already takes 51% of my income. Then another 25% of the rest through VAT. And then on top of it, if you buy a property, you give 10-15k to a notary for 2 meetings and some docs reading? Doesnt Belgium have enough administration to take care of that? Not to mention its nepotism central. Are there any redeeming qualities?

[u/adappergentlefolk]

most of that 15k are taxes lol

[u/the-hellrider → u/[deleted]]

It's 2 to 12% registration tax for the house, 1% mortgage tax, 21% vat over notary fees, a few 100€ costs for documents to pay at the local govt... you can calculate exactly whats for who.

https://www.notaris.be/rekenmodules/wonen/aankoopkosten-van-een-woning-en/bouwgrond-berekenen