New Construction Zlatibor: Is it Better to Buy in Early or Late Construction Phase

Zlatibor has been Serbia's most dynamic mountain real estate market for years, and new construction in Zlatibor particularly attracts buyers considering investment and/or personal use.

The most common dilemma is: buy in the early construction phase (when prices are lower and choice is greater) or wait for the late phase (when the building is almost finished, making it safer and move-in faster)?

This blog helps you make an informed decision: we'll compare costs, rental income potential, completion timelines, and important details to pay attention to.

Whether your primary goal is investment and return on investment or a family apartment that's occasionally rented out, you'll get a clear guide on when it's better to enter – in the early or late construction phase.

Advantages of buying in early construction phase

Purchasing an apartment in the early construction phase is one of the most profitable strategies for buyers who want to save money and achieve additional profit.

Lower price per square meter

The biggest advantage is significantly more favorable pricing.

Pre-sale apartments are usually offered at 10-20% lower prices compared to completed construction, allowing buyers to get a larger or higher-quality apartment for the same budget.

Greater choice of apartments

In the initial phase, buyers have the widest selection – from floor and orientation to square footage and room layout.

The most sought-after units, such as those with mountain views, in close proximity to the center, or with southeast orientation, are usually sold first, so early purchase provides the opportunity to get apartments with the greatest potential.

Possibility of minor interior modifications

Buyers who decide in the early phase often have the opportunity to influence interior details – choice of ceramics, flooring, interior doors, or arrangement of certain rooms.

This way, the apartment can be adapted to personal taste or planned to be more functional for tourist rental.

Capital gain until construction completion

The growth in property value during construction is another strong reason for early purchase.

In practice, the price per square meter grows in several phases – from excavation, through rough construction, all the way to finishing work.

This means that a buyer who invests at the beginning can achieve 10-15% higher value by the time of move-in, without additional investment.

Things to pay attention to in early purchase

Purchasing in the early construction phase brings numerous advantages but also requires certain attention.

Usually, you need to account for a somewhat longer period until move-in, as pre-sale buildings require time to be completely finished.

Therefore, it's important to clearly define timelines and choose projects with realistic construction plans and transparent conditions.

Also, since the building isn't finished yet, buyers can't immediately see the final appearance of the apartment.

That's why it's crucial to choose a proven investor with experience and completed projects behind them.

When the investor has proper documentation and a clear construction vision, risks are minimized, and the purchase becomes safe and long-term profitable.

Advantages of buying in late construction phase

Security – you can see the finished building and work quality

The biggest advantage of purchasing in the later construction phase is that buyers can see the completed building and verify the quality of work. This reduces uncertainty about finishing and construction standards.

Possibility of faster move-in or rental

Unlike pre-sale, purchasing when the building is almost finished or completely done allows for quick move-in.

This is especially important for those who want to use the apartment for living as soon as possible or rent it out and start generating income.

Lower risk regarding documentation and timelines

Since the building is finished, legal documentation is usually complete, giving the buyer additional security that they're entering a legally and technically stable project.

Disadvantages of buying in late phase

Purchasing in the later phase, although safer, also has its disadvantages.

Usually, it's about higher price per square meter, as the price increases by 10-20% during construction compared to pre-sale.

Additionally, the choice of apartments is limited in this phase – the best units with attractive views or excellent positions are usually already sold out.

Finally, the space for additional capital gain is smaller, as value growth is already factored into the final price.

Conclusion

Purchasing an apartment in early or late construction phase has its advantages and challenges, and the best choice depends on the buyer's goal – whether your priority is higher returns and value growth or security and faster move-in.

One thing is certain:

Zlatibor remains one of Serbia's most promising real estate markets.

If you're considering investing, now is the right time to look at the current offerings within the Bloom project and find the option that perfectly matches your plans.