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Preferences for New Construction:
  • 25% of buyers are interested exclusively in new construction.
  • 50% prefer new builds but would consider older properties if the conditions are favorable.
  • New construction is the main driver of the real estate market, particularly in major cities.
Market Activity and Forecasts:
  • Predictions of falling prices and activity turned out to be false.
  • The market is at a record high in terms of transaction volume.
  • There are no signs of a slowdown in this trend.
Geographical Preferences:
  • 64% of buyers are looking for property in Sofia.
  • Next in line are Varna, Plovdiv, and Burgas.
  • Only 10% are interested in purchasing outside the four largest cities.
  • Influx to the capital is primarily driven by people from smaller towns and municipalities.
Investment Motivations:
  • 70% seek housing for personal use.
  • 30% are buying with investment motives:
  • 50% plan to rent it out.
  • 33% aim to resell for profit.
  • 18% want to protect their savings from inflation.
Willingness to Buy Early:
  • Over 60% are ready to make a deal before occupancy permits are granted:
  • 34% during the construction phase.
  • 28% even before the building starts.
Why New Construction:
  • 29% want to own a home in a modern, new building.
  • 30% cite modern technologies and new infrastructure systems.
  • 14% want to be the first inhabitants.
  • Other reasons include a better social environment (9%) and cost-effectiveness (10%).
Type of Property Desired:
  • 86% are searching for an apartment.
  • 6% want a house near the city.
  • 5% prefer a house within the city limits.
  • Only 3% are interested in vacation properties.
Building Type and Age of Buyers:
  • 61% prefer small boutique-style buildings.
  • 39% would choose an apartment in a large complex with amenities.
  • Big complexes are particularly popular among 25–35 year olds (53%).
Desired Amenities and Features:
  • 79% require a garage or parking space.
  • 52% prioritize a well-maintained yard.
  • 30% expect security systems and a children’s playground.
  • 13% value smart-home features, with more popularity among the 25–35 age group.
  • SPA/fitness is important to 11%, while pool and reception area are a priority for only 4%.
Preferences for Size and Room Count:
  • 45% are interested in apartments up to 80 m².
  • 42% look for homes between 80–120 m².
  • 53% seek three-room apartments; 29% two-room ones.
  • There’s rising demand for compact yet functional three-room apartments.
Desired Apartment Features:
  • 55% prioritize a nice view.
  • 48% want a large bedroom (at least 15 m²).
  • 43% want a living room over 30 m².
  • 40% look for more than one bathroom.
  • Other priorities include a storage room (33%), large windows (24%), walk-in closets (20%), high ceilings (18%), and high-quality common areas (18%).
Criteria for Choosing a Property:
  • The most important criterion is location (38%).
  • Second is price (32%).
  • Then, construction quality (11%), developer’s reputation, infrastructure, size, proximity to parks and schools.
  • Sustainable environmental practices are not yet a priority for buyers.
Financing the Purchase:
  • 74% plan to finance purchases with a mortgage.
  • 26% have funds available – the same share that reflects investment-driven buyers.