Against the backdrop of the onset of the autumn-winter season of 2026, the primary real estate market is experiencing a fundamental transformation in consumer demand. Buyers, previously focused exclusively on the cost per square meter and location, are now forced to reconsider their priorities. Market experts, in particular Gazda Construction Company Commercial Director Marianna Bigunets, point out that the key factor in choosing housing is not just the price, but a comprehensive assessment of the building's engineering system. In conditions where the stability of energy supply remains question number one for residents, the liquidity of real estate directly depends on its ability to function autonomously.
Paradigm shift: from price to living model
Marianna Bigunets emphasizes that comparing individual parameters, such as price per meter or area, is becoming an ineffective strategy. "The main advice for citizens who decide to buy housing in a new building on the eve of the cold weather is to compare not individual parameters, but the full living model," the expert summarizes. It is precisely the combination of characteristics — the presence of own generation, autonomous heating, and uninterruptible power supply systems — that forms the real value of the object. Buyers are increasingly realizing that a cheap apartment without reliable engineering in the winter period can turn into a burden, while a more expensive, but autonomous object will ensure comfort and maintain its value.
Engineering autonomy as a driver of liquidity
According to RBC-Ukraine analysts, the main requirement of buyers in 2026 has become the full autonomy of the house. Own electricity generation and independent heating systems are no longer "premium options", but have become a standard that forms the base cost of housing. Objects capable of functioning without external networks demonstrate significantly higher liquidity in the secondary market. Engineering infrastructure, including backup power and heat supply sources, is now viewed as an investment in safety that pays off in the long term.
Safety checklist: seven rules for choosing housing
Experts recommend that before buying housing in a new building, especially on the eve of the cold weather, take into account seven main rules for checking the object. Although the full list of recommendations varies depending on the specifics of the developer, the key points remain unchanged: the presence of backup generators, the quality of facade insulation, the presence of fire extinguishing systems, water supply autonomy, the condition of engineering communications, the presence of protected parking, and the level of perimeter security. Checking these parameters allows you to minimize risks and avoid unforeseen expenses in the future.
Contradictory data
While real estate market experts insist on the need for a comprehensive assessment of engineering systems, in practice there is a gap between buyer expectations and the actual offer from developers. On the one hand, analysts claim that autonomy has become the main factor of liquidity. On the other hand, many developers continue to offer projects with a minimum level of engineering protection, arguing this with the high cost of equipment. Buyers often face a situation where the declared autonomy characteristics do not correspond to the real capabilities of the building, which creates risks when making a purchase decision.
Risks and liability in investments
It is important to note that this material is prepared exclusively for informational purposes and does not constitute financial or investment advice. Investing in real estate involves risk, including the possibility of total loss of capital. RBC-Ukraine is not responsible for financial decisions made on the basis of this material. Before making any investment decisions, it is strongly recommended to consult a licensed financial consultant who will help assess all risks and opportunities of a specific object.
