Historically, Slovenians have been the principal property buyers in Croatia, consistently leading in acquisitions with 3,403 properties bought last year alone.
However, 2023 is witnessing a notable shift, with a surge in interest from Serbian investors, particularly targeting the coastal areas of Istria and Kvarner, reports ‘Jutarnji’.
Estate agencies are reporting an increased influx of Serbian clients who exhibit higher financial capabilities and a preference for luxury properties in elite locations. “There is a pronounced interest in properties in Opatija and Istria, with a particular focus on the western coast,” explains Branko Papeš, director of Dogma Real Estate.
The catalyst for this increased interest remains unclear. Opatija, for instance, was once a popular locale among wealthy Russians for purchasing holiday homes. With Serbians having acquired 167 properties last year, the growing trend raises intriguing questions about the changing dynamics in Croatia’s real estate market as this year’s data looms on the horizon.