Nowadays, buying an apartment in a big city comes with countless possibilities. You can choose between new developments (the primary market) or resale properties (the secondary market). In the first case, you’ll find numerous offers from large and small developers, building both in the city center and on its outskirts. The secondary market looks similar—every day dozens of new listings appear, catering to different tastes and budgets.
But what should you really pay attention to when searching for your dream apartment?
In this article, we’ll focus on buying from the secondary market.
1. Average Prices in the Area
When choosing a property, buyers rarely focus on the price per square meter. Instead, they usually look at the total asking price and the type of apartment. Still, knowing the average unit price in your chosen district can become a strong argument during negotiations with the seller.
You’ll find plenty of information online, but it’s often outdated. If you can’t find reliable data, the safest option is to ask your agent to prepare a detailed price comparison for the neighborhood.
2. Thorough Property Viewings
When viewing a resale apartment, it’s essential to discuss with the current owner any past repairs, upgrades, or breakdowns. Ideally, the owner should present proper documentation.
It’s also important to clarify the situation with furniture: Is it included in the asking price, or can it be purchased separately? Knowing this will help you better estimate potential additional costs, such as renovations or furnishing.
3. The Neighborhood
Before making a final decision, take the time to thoroughly check the location. This way, you’ll know whether the area offers the institutions and amenities you need. The Internet is the easiest tool for this, and it can also provide insights into the overall safety of the neighborhood.
4. Legal Status of the Property
To verify the legal details of a property, you’ll need to check its land and mortgage register (księga wieczysta). This document is publicly accessible. The simplest way is to ask the current owner for the register number and then review the details online via:
???? Land and Mortgage Register Browser
There, you’ll find all the key information: ownership details, legal status, claims, or any mortgages associated with the property.
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