Foreign Property Investment in Poland
2024 Trends and Statistics
Poland’s real estate market continues to attract foreign investors. As a property consultant, I’ve witnessed firsthand the evolving landscape of international property purchases in this dynamic Central European nation.
Key Trends in 2024
- Slight Dip in Foreign Purchases Foreign buyers acquired over 14,300 apartments in Poland in 2024, a minor decrease from the previous year.
- Ukrainian Dominance Ukrainian citizens led the pack. They purchased a whopping 380,000 square meters of living space. I’ve helped several Ukrainian families find their dream homes in Warsaw’s bustling districts.
- Belarusian Surge Belarus citizens emerged as the fastest-growing group of foreign buyers. They snapped up 111,000 square meters of property. Their Interest in Polish real estate has skyrocketed recently.
- German Interest Wanes: Once a major player, German buyers acquired just 54,000 square meters, marking a significant drop in their market participation.
Historical Context
Poland’s EU membership sparked foreign Interest in its property market. The trend grew steadily until 2022. COVID-19 briefly dampened enthusiasm. But the market rebounded swiftly.
Impact of Geopolitical Events
The Ukraine war has reshaped the market. It has cooled Interest from Western buyers, and Germans, French, British, and Americans have become more hesitant. Yet, it has driven increased investment from Poland’s eastern neighbours.
Popular Locations
Warsaw, Krakow, and Wroclaw remain top choices. These cities offer a blend of history, culture, and economic opportunities. I’ve guided countless clients through Krakow’s charming streets, helping them find perfect investment properties.
Looking Ahead
The Polish property market continues to evolve. Eastern European buyers are reshaping demand. Western Interests may rebound as geopolitical tensions ease. International investors should watch these trends closely.
Popularity of apartments in Poland among foreigners
Residential Premises (Purple) Commercial premises (Blue)
Source: https://gethome.pl/
In these cities, foreigners buy the most apartments
2021 (Purple) 2022 (Blue) 2024 (Dark Blue)
Source: https://gethome.pl/
2024 so far
- Overall Foreign Investment
- There was a slight increase in foreign property purchases, reaching around 15,000 apartments.
- Total square meters purchased by foreigners are likely to hit 600,000 m².
- Ukrainian Investors
- Ukrainian investment to remain strong, potentially increasing to 400,000 m².
- More long-term settlements will be needed as the war situation stabilizes.
- Belarusian Buyers
- Continued growth, possibly reaching 150,000 m² of purchases.
- Increased interest in mid-sized cities beyond Warsaw and Krakow.
- Western European Investors
- The gradual return of German, French, and British buyers.
- Estimated increase to 60,000 m² for German purchases.
- Popular Locations
- Warsaw remains the top choice, followed by Krakow and Wroclaw.
- There is a growing interest in Gdansk and Poznan among foreign buyers.
2025 Predictions
- Market Maturation
- Foreign purchases could stabilize around 16,000 apartments.
- Total foreign investment might reach 650,000 m².
- Diversification of Investors
- Potential increase in Asian investors, particularly from China and Vietnam.
- Middle Eastern investment may grow, focusing on luxury properties.
- Ukrainian and Belarusian Trends
- Ukrainian investment to stabilize around 420,000 m².
- Belarusian purchases might plateau at 180,000 m².
- Western Comeback
- German investment could return to pre-2023 levels, around 70,000 m².
- Increased interest from Scandinavian countries.
- Emerging Hotspots
- Investment Patterns
- More focus on sustainable and energy-efficient properties.
- Increased interest in mixed-use developments.
The Polish real estate sector demonstrates strong growth potential across several areas:
- Urban Residential Demand
- Major cities see increasing need for housing
- Suburban Expansion
- Remote work drives interest in areas outside city centres
- Student Housing Market
- Growing investments in accommodations for students
- Logistics and Warehousing
- Rapid growth in storage and distribution facilities
- Build-to-Rent Developments
- Emerging trend offering large-scale residential investment opportunities
