The Kyiv real estate market is undergoing a serious transformation. Buyers are changing their priorities: instead of investment risks or buying "construction pits," they are looking for housing where they can move in immediately. Real estate expert Oleg Derlyuk, in an interview with RBC-Ukraine, explained which segments are currently dominating and which are losing relevance in the new reality.
Trend towards ready-made housing
The most obvious shift is observed in the segment of new developments. Although construction remains in demand, the structure of demand has changed radically. There are far fewer people willing to invest in construction at the pit stage now than before the start of the full-scale war. People are looking for ready-made apartments in modern buildings where they can start living immediately, bypassing the risks of prolonged construction.
"New developments are always in demand, but we are talking specifically about already finished apartments where you can move in and live. Now, far fewer people are investing in construction pits than before the war," noted Oleg Derlyuk.
Secondary market: the victory of quality
The secondary market today demonstrates high activity, but buyers' choices have become more selective. The greatest interest is shown in apartments in individual projects from the 2000s, as well as monolithic-frame buildings erected between 2008 and 2015.
The expert emphasizes that the key factor here is construction quality. These buildings are perceived as reliable and comfortable, unlike outdated standard series.
Crisis of demand for 'Khrushchyovkas' and panel buildings
The segment of the old housing stock, including 'Khrushchyovkas' and panel buildings, continues to lose popularity. Demand for such apartments was low even before the war, and now it has fallen to an absolute minimum. Buyers prefer more modern and warm options.
"Panel buildings are cold, it's a certain series, and Khrushchyovkas are old apartments needing renovation. There was practically no demand for them before, but now they are mainly bought under state programs," explained Derlyuk.
Thus, the main driving force in this segment has become state support programs, rather than market interest from private buyers.
Luxury real estate: capital outflow
Significant changes have also occurred in the luxury real estate segment. The number of buyers in this category has decreased significantly. Before the war, there were more solvent clients on the market considering the purchase of premium housing.
However, the current situation has changed the balance of power. Many wealthy citizens have left the country, taking their capital with them, which has directly hit the demand for "luxury" housing.
"Luxury housing is now bought much less. Before the war, there were far more solvent clients who considered this segment. But now many have left and took their money with them," the expert summarized.
Market conclusions
Today, the formula for success in the Kyiv real estate market is simple: a ready-made apartment in a modern building. The old housing stock and luxury real estate are losing their positions, giving way to the pragmatic choice of buyers who are looking for comfort and safety right here and now.
