Real estate market gaining momentum again: construction boom in Sofia and Plovdiv
Brokers from “New Home 1”: Not only buildings are growing, but also the quality of life
The first quarter of 2025 brought not just good news, but a true wave of optimism for the construction sector. The number of issued permits for the construction of new residential buildings has increased by 8.8% compared to the previous quarter, and planned housing shows a growth of 7.3%. The total built-up area also makes a significant leap – a whole 18%, according to NSI data.
These are not just dry numbers. This is the signal that has long been awaited – the market is moving, investments are awakening, and the prospects look clearer than ever. Bulgaria is not just building – it is constructing its new urban vision, with a rhythm and ambition felt most strongly in the cities of Sofia and Plovdiv.
Sofia and Plovdiv – the engines of change
“The increase in permits is not just a statistic – it is the momentum that the market needed to enter a more mature phase of development,” commented Miroslav Stoyanov, manager of the “Leader” office at “Nov Dom 1”. “This not only supports business and competition, but also creates a healthier economic environment – more jobs, more opportunities, GDP growth.”
The signals of the market awakening are not isolated. They are confirmed by the dynamics on the ground – new projects, emerging neighborhoods, and tangible activity among investors and buyers. After a period of fluctuations and tension, it seems that 2025 will be the year when the balance between supply and demand will finally be restored.
Sofia – a city of opportunities
If the capital had a compass, its arrow would point in one direction – south. The southern districts have established themselves as a magnet for buyers and investors, driven by well-developed infrastructure, transport connectivity, and growth potential.
“The areas around the future metro stations and the completion of key road projects are a magnet for buyers,” Stoyanov points out. “Mladost still maintains its position – it still offers prices that sound reasonable in the overall market context.”
Realistically speaking, Sofia is no longer just expanding – it is being reshaped. The infrastructure sets the tone, and the market follows at an accelerated pace. Purchases are increasingly strategic, especially among younger buyers seeking long-term value.
Plovdiv – a proven formula between stability and return on investment
Plovdiv continues to position itself as one of the most stable and predictable markets. The growth in permits there is not surprising – the city offers a balanced mix of affordable prices, good quality of life, and an increasingly attractive environment for investments.
Stanimir Raev, manager of the “Paris” office at “Nov Dom 1”, outlines three key effects of the sustainable flow of permits: “First – the city offers the lowest prices among major cities, thanks to stable supply. Second – competition improves quality. Mediocre projects simply do not survive. And third – buyers are no longer under pressure. They can choose calmly and well-informed.”
Raev is categorical: by 2025, investment demand will be leading. “Investors are already different – more informed, more demanding, and with clearly defined goals. Plovdiv is their natural ground – prices are still attractive, and the opportunities are promising.”
The neighborhoods that will propel Plovdiv forward
For those looking for a home, the “Hristo Smirnenski” neighborhood continues to be a favorite – close to the Rowing Base, schools, shops, and green areas. But when it comes to investments, Raev directs attention to the southern part of the city: “The city is growing to the south. Komatevo and Markovo will be the next areas with price increases,” he predicts. According to him, these areas will yield the highest return on investments made within the next 1-2 years.
The real estate market in Bulgaria is on the verge of breaking free from the storms of imbalance and embarking on the path of sustainable development. Construction is no longer just a physical action but an expression of a vision for the future – especially in cities like Sofia and Plovdiv, where each new permit is a step towards a modern, functional, and well-planned urban environment.
The real estate market is often a scene of loud promises and quick decisions. That is why it is important to trust companies with proven experience, transparency, and a professional attitude. Before any transaction, look not only at the offers but also at the history behind them – the number of completed deals, customer reviews, and the team’s stability. “Nov dom 1” is an example of such security – a company with a long-standing presence and a deep understanding of customer needs. Whether you are looking for a new home or an investment – their offices in Varna, Sofia, and Plovdiv offer expertise, individual approach, and solutions.