Print
version
version
Sofia’s real estate market is experiencing a significant shift in trends: for the first time in the past decade, home sales are outpacing rentals in terms of growth. The observation comes from the National Real Estate Association (NRA), which represents over 2,500 industry professionals. Despite this turning point, experts still anticipate the usual seasonal spike in demand for rental housing in late summer and early autumn, driven by annual migration flows.
According to analysis by the NRA, a growing number of financially secure residents are choosing to buy property rather than rent, taking advantage of favorable mortgage conditions. This shift has led to a stabilization of rental prices, which saw a sharp increase in 2024 – rising by more than 24% per square meter. As noted by Angelina Dobreva, owner of the RealNet agency and representative of the NRA, this upward movement in rental rates had stabilized by early 2025.
The upcoming rise in rental market activity is expected to be driven by internal migration trends, including the relocation of students – both Bulgarian and international – as well as young families seeking housing near universities and childcare facilities. According to the association’s forecasts, tenant competition will remain strong, while property owners can count on quick transactions at stable prices.
For long-term rentals (one year or more), the highest demand continues to be in areas with well-developed infrastructure: central neighborhoods, districts near universities and business centers, and locations with convenient transport access. Apartments remain the top choice for renters, regardless of size or layout.
In contrast to past years, demand from international tenants and digital nomads has remained flat. Meanwhile, more Bulgarians returning from overseas are entering the rental market, often treating it as a temporary stage before buying a property.
Angelina Dobreva describes the current state of the market as a “transitional phase” and anticipates a renewed surge in activity as autumn approaches – particularly in neighborhoods favored by students and young families. Despite the slower pace earlier in the year, the rental sector remains resilient, offering steady opportunities for both tenants and landlords.
Source: Novinite
