Growing Investment: Zlatibor Apartments and Rising Price Trends
Investment in Zlatibor Apartments
Zlatibor has become one of Serbia's most sought-after mountain destinations in recent years, not only for vacation but also for investment.
The constant influx of tourists throughout the year, infrastructure development (gondola, new hotels and spa centers), and limited supply of the best locations have driven up demand for accommodation, and consequently, square meter prices.
That's exactly why Zlatibor apartments are an increasingly popular choice for investors seeking a combination of capital security and stable passive income through short-term rentals.
In this blog, we'll show why Zlatibor stands out as a "growing investment": what factors are driving prices up, how to assess realistic returns (ROI) from rentals, what advantages early-stage construction purchasing brings, and what to pay special attention to when choosing location, investor, and accompanying amenities.
If you're considering investing in a mountain apartment, you'll get a clear framework for making an informed decision here.
Growth of Zlatibor Apartment Prices in Recent Years
Current Average Square Meter Prices
According to the latest report from the Republic Geodetic Authority (RGZ) for 2024, in the territory of Čajetina municipality (which includes Zlatibor), the average square meter price for older construction was around €1,331/m², while new construction was priced at €1,468/m².
Currently, apartments can be found in the market ranging from approximately €1,500 to €2,500/m², depending on location, construction quality, and amenities offered by the complex.
Comparison with Prices from 3-5 Years Ago
Looking back to 2021, average prices were lower: older construction €1,210/m², and new construction €1,525/m².
This means that over a three-year period, the average square meter price in older buildings increased by about 10%, while new construction saw a slight decrease in averages, but with noticeable price growth in premium locations and luxury complexes (with spa, pool, and garages). So, although prices fluctuated, the trend indicates stable market growth, especially in the tourist apartment segment.
Reasons for Zlatibor Apartment Price Growth
1. Increased Number of Tourists
Zlatibor records growth in visitors every year – both domestic and foreign. With over 1.2 million overnight stays annually, it has become one of Serbia's most visited destinations. High demand for accommodation directly impacts increased demand for apartments, which drives up property values.
2. Infrastructure Development
In recent years, Zlatibor has experienced significant infrastructural changes – the world's longest panoramic gondola was built, roads were modernized, and new hotels and spa centers were opened. Each such project additionally increases location attractiveness and automatically raises square meter prices.
3. Limited Supply of Attractive Locations
Zlatibor's center and its immediate zones have limited space for new construction. As demand grows while the supply of quality locations remains limited, prices naturally rise.
4. Growing Popularity of Short-term Rentals
Platforms like Airbnb and Booking have made apartment rentals simple and profitable. Investors count on returns of 7-10% annually, which further increases interest in purchasing and consequently drives up property prices.
Advantages of Investing in Early Construction Phase
Investing in the early construction phase brings several key advantages.
First and foremost, buyers can count on lower square meter prices, as pre-sale apartments are offered at significantly more favorable terms compared to those sold after completion.
Additionally, there's initially a greater choice of apartments – from floor level and orientation to square footage and layout, allowing investors to find the ideal solution according to their needs or future guests' requirements.
Another important advantage is faster capital gains, since property value almost always increases as construction progresses, so by building completion, a 10-15% higher market value can often be achieved. All this makes the early construction phase the most profitable time to enter the investment.
Who is This Investment Ideal For?
Purchasing apartments in Zlatibor is an excellent choice for various investor profiles.
It's ideal for people who want to secure passive income through tourist rentals, but also for those seeking a safe long-term investment that preserves money value and brings stable growth.
Also, many families decide on Zlatibor apartments because they allow them to have their own vacation corner while being able to generate additional income through rentals when not in use.
How to Choose the Right Apartment?
Location – the closer to the center and main amenities, the greater the attractiveness and rental potential. However, apartments further from the center also provide a true mountain living experience.
Accompanying Amenities – spa center, pool, garage, and reception significantly increase apartment value.
Investor and Reputation – a reliable investor with completed projects behind them guarantees purchase security.
Legal Security and Documentation – always verify that everything is properly registered in the cadastre and that necessary construction and occupancy permits exist.
Why is Now the Right Time?
Zlatibor is today one of the most attractive places for real estate investment – growing tourism, limited supply, and stable price increases make it a safe and profitable investment.
If you're considering investing, now is the right time, as growth trends show that prices will continue to rise in the coming years.
Check out the apartment offerings within the Bloom project and contact our sales team to secure your piece of Zlatibor in time.