Buyers of real estate in Serbia are somewhat concerned about the constant rise in property prices, and there is a widespread belief that apartments will never again be affordable due to inflation across the market. However, certain factors can determine whether a property will fall into a higher or lower price range compared to the market average.
Read the article to the end, because below you’ll find answers to the most common questions about real estate prices, given by agent Nikola Čobić.
Location and microlocation
The part of the city has the greatest impact on the price per square meter. The outskirts have always been more affordable than the city center, while suburban areas are the most budget-friendly. If you are considering more affordable municipalities in Belgrade, take into account: Batajnica, Borča, Krnjača, Kotež, Zemun Polje, Altina, Železnik, Kumodraž, Jajinci, Kaluđerica, Grocka, and certain parts of Rakovica.
Karaburma, Mirijevo, Višnjička Banja and Surčin are no longer among the cheapest options, but moderate prices can still be found there.
New construction or older buildings?
There is no simple answer. New apartments are generally more expensive, but in the early phases of building, they are often offered with special discounts. For example, in the first presale phase of a new residential project in Zemun, you can buy a high-quality apartment for less than €100,000 in total costs (including VAT!). The offer is limited, so call to check availability.
Older buildings have their own advantages: you are buying a completed, immediately move-in-ready property, often fully equipped and furnished.
Property characteristics
Many factors influence the price: floor level, presence of an elevator, condition of the building, surroundings, and orientation. Apartments with certain disadvantages sell more slowly, but are also more affordable. These include apartments above the third floor in buildings without an elevator, basements, or attic apartments with sloped ceilings.
Buying through an agency or directly from the owner?
There is no strict rule. You might come across a perfect option in a handwritten ad on a street pole, but to get a better overview of the market, we recommend using online platforms such as City Expert, where you can browse and filter all available properties in one place, choose your price range and other parameters.
FAQ about real estate in Belgrade – Interview with an agent
What does “affordable property” actually mean in Belgrade today?
In 2025, the average price was around €2,600/m², so anything below that is considered below the market average. In general, a good deal means getting the maximum value for the money within your desired location.
What are the most common mistakes buyers make when looking for the “cheapest apartment”?
Buyers sometimes choose a lower price at the expense of clean documentation and properly regulated ownership. Avoiding agency and legal fees often ends up costing more in the long run.
Which parts of Belgrade currently offer the best price-to-growth potential ratio?
I would single out Karaburma, Mirijevo and Železnik, which are attractive due to planned metro stations. Prices are still below average, but growth is expected.
Are there “unpopular” or lesser-known locations that actually offer great value?
Such locations include Obrenovac, Mladenovac and Lazarevac — they are part of Belgrade, yet property prices are much lower. Also worth mentioning: Stara and Nova Pazova, Batajnica.
How much should buyers think ahead about infrastructure development (metro, roads, new projects)?
When buying in peripheral areas that may not yet have complete infrastructure, it doesn’t mean it won’t happen in the near future. Belgrade is expanding, and purchasing a more affordable square meter today can realistically lead to a higher property value in the future.
Is there a “best time” of year to buy an apartment?
The best time is when you have the funds. Prices keep rising — sometimes faster, sometimes slower — but waiting can always end up costing more.
How realistic is it today to negotiate the price, and by what percentage?
It depends on how overpriced the property is compared to the market. In most cases, buyers can expect a reduction of 3–6%. In rare cases, for properties that have been on the market for a long time or in urgent sales, discounts of up to 10% can occur.
What arguments can a buyer use in negotiations with the seller?
Floor level, the condition of the apartment, the amount of investment needed, as well as the condition of the building, entrance and common areas — all these factors directly affect the price.
How can an agent realistically help a buyer find an affordable property?
An agent follows the market and can quickly inform the buyer when a good deal appears. With knowledge of sales dynamics and pricing, the agent can negotiate with the seller on behalf of the buyer.
If you were buying for yourself today, where would you look and why?
I am a big fan of older, well-developed neighborhoods with good infrastructure, parking, parks and roads. For me, those are Medak, Braće Jerković, Vidikovac area, Skojevsko naselje and Miljakovac. I live in one of these areas myself.
What is an example of a “great purchase” from your practice?
In 2025, a buyer purchased a 46 m² apartment in Karaburma on the 4th floor without an elevator that required renovation. The purchase price was about €70,000, and he invested another €15,000 in renovation. Five months later, he sold it for nearly €120,000. This success was achieved thanks to the right choice of location and property condition, with the support of an experienced agent throughout both the purchase and the sale.
We hope our answers were helpful. Follow our blog for more topics and analyses from the real estate market.
And if you want to find the best opportunity to buy property in Belgrade, check out the City Expert listings.
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