BREC Talks

04.02.2025

What are the main challenges & opportunities for the real estate market in 2025?

In 2025, the real estate market will keep evolving, shaped by several major trends. On the positive side, the demand for sustainable and adaptable office spaces will stay strong. As businesses emphasize ESG goals, projects like Timpuri Noi Square and Business Garden Bucharest, which provide eco-friendly features, excellent connectivity, and a focus on community, are well-positioned for success.

On the other side, there are ongoing challenges. Rising interest rates and construction costs, alongside complex regulations, may push developers to find innovative solutions and optimize expenses. Additionally, achieving higher ESG standards will require significant investment. At Vastint, we view these challenges as opportunities to take the lead in the industry, demonstrating the importance of responsible development and long-term vision.

What are the company’s business targets and plans for 2025?

Construction of the second phase of Timpuri Noi Square, one of the few office developments currently underway in Bucharest, is progressing on schedule, with completion expected in the fourth quarter of 2026.

While the challenges in 2025 are substantial, they also offer an opportunity to rethink the future of real estate. By embracing sustainability, fostering collaboration between the public and private sectors, and harnessing innovation, the industry can not only overcome the challenges but also pave the way for a more resilient and successful future.

Vastint remains optimistic and committed to leveraging our expertise in sustainable development and international best practices to continue delivering exceptional value and meeting the evolving needs of tenants.

In Romania, A Class buildings, like those in our portfolio, are in particularly high demand, especially in Bucharest. Owners of older properties are facing growing pressure to upgrade their buildings to stay competitive, particularly with the tightening of European regulations surrounding energy efficiency and sustainability. This trend works in our favor, as many tenants have relocated to our properties from older, smaller buildings or areas of the city lacking metro access.

We understand the importance of providing community services for our tenants, which is why we frequently organize a range of activities and events that are highly valued by their employees. Creating a workplace environment that encourages employees to return to the office is a top priority for us.

What were the main business results for 2024?

The defining word for 2024 was “adaptability.” Amidst a year of swift economic and social transformations, Vastint Romania showcased its capacity to navigate challenges with creative solutions, all while upholding its commitment to sustainability and high standards. The ongoing progress of our developments, like Timpuri Noi Square and Business Garden Bucharest, was driven by a strategy that adjusted to the evolving needs of the market and the surrounding communities.

Vastint Romania upheld a robust financial performance throughout 2024. The first phase of Timpuri Noi Square is now fully leased, and we are witnessing high demand and interest in Business Garden Bucharest, where we are on track to reach the same percentage during this year.

How will Romania’s economic outlook, labour market trends, and regulatory changes affect office space absorption rates and new project launches in 2025?

The real estate sector in 2025 is set to experience a period of change and complexity, both on a regional and local scale. Climate change remains a major concern at the regional level, pushing the industry to adjust to stricter sustainability standards. Transitioning to a low-carbon economy is no longer optional but necessary. This transformation will require substantial investments in buildings that emit zero carbon and the adoption of cutting-edge green technologies, such as renewable energy, smart building systems, and sustainable materials. These advancements will fundamentally change how we design, construct, and operate buildings, with sustainability becoming a key factor in maintaining a competitive edge.

Internally, the evolving nature of work post-pandemic continues to impact demand for real estate. Companies are now seeking spaces that support flexibility, hybrid work arrangements, and employee well-being, while also aligning with long-term sustainability objectives. Achieving this balance demands innovation in both building design and functionality, focusing on adaptable floor plans, energy efficiency, and state-of-the-art building management technologies.

On the local front, stability and clarity in legislation and taxation are essential for fostering a reliable investment environment. The real estate market thrives in conditions of certainty, so the implementation of clear and supportive policies will be vital for driving sustainable growth. Concrete government initiatives to support green projects, simplify approval processes, and incentivize developments aligned with ESG principles are crucial for accelerating progress.

30.01.2025

What are the main challenges & opportunities for the real estate market in 2025?

The local market is still extremely attractive and presents numerous opportunities for development. Bucharest could be even more attractive if there were improvements in infrastructure, predictability of urban planning regulations, investments in the city’s brand itself. The geopolitical, climate and economic challenges require businesses to focus more on long-lasting quality. Rising material costs and tighter regulations are real challenges, but they only motivate us to innovate further and deliver greater value.

Our projects – whether they are residential, commercial, or focused on historic restoration, aim to bring more value to the city and to attract international companies to open offices here, such as Infineon Technologies, or famous brands to enter the local market, such as Mondrian. For us, these are already a cornerstone of our investments. 

What are the company’s business targets and plans for 2025?

Our objective is to develop sustainable communities, in all the business segments in which we operate – residential, office and commercial, hospitality.

One of our objectives is to strengthen our residential portfolio. One United Properties intends to expand beyond its current residential segment and accelerate the development of premium affordable housing targeting Bucharest’s middle class. The development of strategic partnerships is also on our list, as we aim to attract international brands and turn our locations into landmark points in the market. Investing in historic restoration is our contribution to increasing the attractiveness of the city and creating new economic opportunities.

One of our most anticipated deliveries for 2025 is One Gallery, a multi-functional retail hub developed through the restoration of the former Ford’s historic factory, which has all the data to become a landmark of the Floreasca district and an attraction for the city itself. It will include a unique commercial component and spaces for cultural events and theatre performances. We thus want to continue to contribute to the communities where we are present.

In the office segment, we aim to expand our portfolio and focus on large turnkey developments, such as One Technology District, a modern office hub completely gas-free that we are currently building for the giant German Infineon Technologies. It aims to be the world’s largest research and development centre for semiconductor chips in south-eastern Europe, which is an excellent signal for the attractiveness of the local market.

How will anticipated economic conditions, government policies or EU funding programs influence the residential real estate market in Romania?

The local residential market is influenced by prospects of economy growth or interest rates that can lead to higher consumer confidence and demand for residential properties, particularly in urban centres like Bucharest, Cluj, Timișoara, just to name a few. EU funding targeted at green and energy-efficient developments can significantly impact the market, while EU-backed infrastructure improvements can increase property values and make other emerging areas more attractive. Such is the case of Fabrica de Glucoză area, that has developed enormously in the past years becoming a new hotspot on the real estate market. With the anticipated completion of the A7, this corporate district will be directly connected not only via the A3 to Ploiești, but also via the A7 to the whole Moldova area. Increased accessibility to new geographical regions of the country can attract new investments, both residential and commercial. Improved connectivity is likely to attract more demand for properties in the area, with an appreciation in the value of buildings and land over time.

While these factors can fuel market growth, challenges like rising material costs, labour shortages, or delays in accessing EU funds could temper their impact. Nonetheless, developers who adapt quickly stand to gain a competitive edge.

How will Romania’s economic outlook, labour market trends, and regulatory changes affect office space absorption rates and new project launches in 2025?

Office space absorption in Bucharest, the largest capital in the CEE region, is expected to rise due to constrained supply driven by zoning restrictions. Romania’s positive economic growth projections further support this trend. Additionally, the availability of a skilled talent pool and the return of expatriates are significant contributors. This reverse brain drain is actively bolstering Romania’s position as a nearshoring hub for EU and US companies, driving further demand for office space and development opportunities.

29.01.2025

What are the main challenges & opportunities for the real estate market in 2025?

The real estate market in 2025 is likely to face a dual set of challenges and opportunities. On the challenge side, rising inflation, high interest rates, and unpredictable fiscal policies, such as potential adjustments to VAT rates or construction-related tax benefits, may put pressure on both developers and buyers. Additionally, the cautious behavior of financial institutions toward real estate financing is expected to persist. I believe that, even in 2025, the administrative blockade at the level of the capital City Hall will continue. On the opportunity side, demand for high-quality, energy-efficient, and sustainable residential units is growing, driven by more informed and discerning clients. This shift provides a chance for developers like us to stand out by focusing on projects aligned with NZEB standards and offering enhanced living experiences, such as parking solutions for electric vehicles. The ongoing supply-demand imbalance in Bucharest, with new housing supply down by 23% in 2024, also creates a favorable environment for stable or rising property prices in 2025.

What were the main business results for 2024 and what are your company’s business targets and plans for 2025?

In 2024, our company achieved significant milestones despite a challenging environment. The Akcent City project, encompassing 723 apartments and extensive infrastructure, saw 325 pre-sale agreements signed, representing 40% of the units sold in the first year of construction. Furthermore, we secured €43 million in financing from Raiffeisen Bank, highlighting the project’s solid foundation and financial credibility. By the end of 2024, we successfully completed the structure of the 5 blocks, setting a new milestone for our company by achieving this in just one year. 

The company successfully absorbed the VAT increase from 5% to 9% without passing the burden onto clients, maintaining trust and reinforcing its commitment to customer satisfaction. These results underscore our ability to adapt and thrive even in a volatile market.

In 2025, we aim to solidify our position as a leader in the Romanian residential real estate market. Our plans include increasing sales in the Akcent City project, with a focus on maintaining transparent communication and delivering value through sustainable and modern housing. We will also ensure that the project’s development aligns with the highest standards, emphasizing energy efficiency and incorporating customer-centric features like charging stations for electric vehicles. Strategically, we aim to navigate anticipated market fluctuations with moderate price adjustments (below 10%) while offering competitive investment opportunities for both residential and investor clients

How will anticipated economic conditions, government policies or EU funding programs influence the residential real estate market in Romania?

Economic conditions, such as high inflation and stable or rising interest rates, will shape the pace and scale of real estate transactions in 2025. Government policies, particularly those concerning fiscal measures like VAT adjustments or the reintroduction of construction tax incentives, will play a crucial role in determining market dynamics.

EU funding programs may offer indirect benefits by improving infrastructure and boosting economic development, thereby increasing housing demand in urban areas. For developers, a stable and predictable legislative environment is key to fostering confidence and ensuring the continued growth of residential projects in Romania. Clear communication between private sector stakeholders and policymakers will be vital in aligning market needs with regulatory measures.

28.01.2025

What key economic indicators are influencing the Romanian real estate market in 2025, and how do you anticipate they will shape residential and commercial property demand?

Romania joined Schengen area, the highway network is starting to emerge, the large size of the market, energy production potential, geographic location and the reorientation of the EU leaders towards local EU production and raw materials sources, can turn Romania into The Place To Be for many real estate investors and developers.  The residential demand is significant but it needs local authorities support in terms of public transportation/utilities/facilities. Especially in Bucharest metropolitan area the residential development is suffocated by poor traffic conditions, not by affordability or demand. Within the city there may be a lower development potential due to city mayor vision/related costs but the periphery is ready to develop aggressively once new access roads are built (ring road, radial roads, metro to Otopeni) and public transportation frequency is increased.  

What trends are you observing in the mortgage market, particularly regarding interest rate preferences (fixed vs. variable), loan tenures, and affordability for first-time buyers?

The mortgage market seems to be accessible and if the interest rates will slightly decrease, the better. The default rate for mortgages is very low therefore banks will continue to focus on this segment which generates low risk, long term and steady income. Since mortgage financing in Romania is mostly done in RON you do not expect to see long term fixed rates for such loans. The banks are just teasing the buyers with 3-5 years fixed interest rate, which helps a lot the buyers but does not eliminate the interest rate for such long terms loans. In my opining the residential market is currently at a very good level, apartments are quite affordably considering the average wage / residential prices in Romania, with steady annual growth and with potential to continue developing for many years to come.

What are your company’s business targets in 2025?

We expect in 2025 a similar year with 2024, to increase the business with approximatively 10% and to continue attracting new medium size tenants who are no longer focused on prime office locations and are more oriented now on cost / benefit efficiency.

27.02.2024

Top 3 trends you foresee in 2024 for the machinery & equipment suppliers’ sector?

2024 will be a year of continuous transformation and the suppliers will invest into digitalization, use of AI and cloud services. The suppliers will develop their portfolio using interconnected machinery and equipment. The introduction and/or availability of digital/remote services will be more seen into the suppliers’ proposals. On the other hand, the market and the customers are looking for new solutions that will allow them to differentiate themselves in a very competitive market.

Main challenges and opportunities in 2024?

2024 is coming with economic challenges and market uncertainty. The regional conflicts are also impacting the market developments, while logistic disruption can influence the products’ availability and costs. For several years we have already seen labor market shortage in respect of capacity and competences, which is an incredible opportunity for online/remote services development and implementation.  

What are your company’s business targets in 2024?

Our aim is to differentiate through innovation and sustainability that will support our customer’s growth. We are investing in high performing teams looking to grow faster than the market with leaner and smarter ways of working.

3.02.2024

Which are the main challenges & opportunities for the residential market in 2024?

We consider that 2024 started with good premises and we are expecting the residential market to be more effervescent this year, as compared with 2023. We noticed at the beginning of the year a boosted interest in residential developments, through the increased number of leads accessing real estate portals.

One of the big challenges for this year remains the buyers’ capacity to access banking loans. An important aspect is that banks have understood the changes in the market and are now offering loas with fixed interest rates on five years, making the financing solutions much more attractive for residential buyers.

Another important challenge for the market is the 4% increase in VAT, adding pressure both on developers and future buyers. The difference will be absorbed either by the buyer, or the developer. We have decided to absorb this difference. However, this problem could lead to the decision of some developers to postpone building works for some projects, the delay of construction following to have a negative impact on labor market and consequently to the state’s budget.

We must not forget the administrative blockage from Bucharest: there are three years since our industry is no longer sustained and the urban development of Romania’s Capital City is frozen. 2024 is also an electoral year which will also influence the business environment.

Another important factor to notice this year is the effect of the fiscal construction facilities’ removal will have on the construction costs. Each developer will have to find solutions so that we will not witness major prices’ increase.

that the measure of the elimination of construction facilities will have and to see how much it will lead to an increase in the price per square meter built. It is obvious that the real estate market will be affected and that each individual developer will have to find solutions so that we do not witness dramatic price increases for the houses, and so few, that will be completed this year.

A positive aspect is that we can notice the decrease of inflation and we hope that there will be a significant decrease of costs. If we also observe the economic forecasts made by the European Commission, Romania is in an area of ​​stability and a slight economic growth is expected, which we hope will also translate into the purchasing power of the Romanians.

The fact that Bucharest still has the lowest cost per square meter in Europe is something that should make us think. Despite the predictions of some analysts that the real estate market will collapse, and prices will fall, this will not happen. On the contrary, they will increase, considering that a few years ago the price per square meter was far below the European average.

This period, characterized as one of stagnation, can be seen as an opportunity for investors who want to avoid keeping savings in cash. I strongly believe that the purchase of new houses is the best option for real estate investors.

What are the company’s business targets for 2024?

Currently, we are developing Akcent City project, a large residential compound in Bucurestii Noi area, in sector 1, just two minutes from the metro. This is a developing area, in which we believe very much.

We are talking about a project consisting of five blocks, which includes, among many other facilities, over 700 apartments, over 900 parking spaces and 4,000 sqm of green spaces. It is, at the same time, the largest large-scale project approved after the entry into force of the nZEB (Nearly Zero Energy Buildings) regulations. It will be built in a single phase, the completion being set for fourth quarter of 2025.

During this period, most of our attention is focused on the progress of the project and on maintaining the level of quality that our clients have become accustomed to. As in our previous projects, the completion of the construction will be done within the time frame promised to the clients, knowing that speed, efficiency, and quality are attributes that Akcent Development has accustomed its public to, regardless of whether we are talking about office or residential buildings.

We are set to remain focused on our objectives, to try to authorize as many plots of land as possible, to look for new opportunities and most importantly to convey to our old and new clients that Akcent is a reliable partner.