Foreign buyers and the Croatian real estate market: what interests them most

Croatia as a safe and attractive investment destination

The Croatian real estate market has been attracting foreign buyers for years, and this trend continues in the current market conditions.
Market stability, membership in the European Union and the Eurozone have further increased the confidence of international investors.
For many foreign buyers, Croatia represents a combination of safe investment, a quality living environment, and long-term value.
Regions by the sea are particularly interesting, as well as Zagreb as the business and administrative center of the country.
Buyers from Germany, Austria, Slovenia, Italy, but also increasingly from Scandinavia and Western Europe, perceive Croatia as a market that still offers a good price-quality ratio.

Location as a key decision

One of the most important factors for foreign buyers is the location.
In the coastal region, properties in Istria, Kvarner and Dalmatia are most often sought, with an emphasis on proximity to the sea, an open view and good traffic connections.
Islands are particularly interesting to buyers looking for privacy, exclusivity and peace, while Zagreb attracts those who invest in long-term rentals or are looking for a second home with urban amenities.
Foreign buyers often think long-term.
Locations that offer stable demand, good infrastructure, and the possibility of year-round use have an advantage over exclusively seasonal destinations.

Construction quality and transparency

Unlike some domestic buyers, foreigners usually place great emphasis on the quality of construction, energy efficiency and clearly defined documentation.
New buildings with higher construction standards, modern installations and clear ownership relations are particularly sought after.
Transparency of the buying process is extremely important.
Buyers want clear information about ownership, taxes, maintenance costs and potential rental income.
That is why professional agency support often plays a crucial role in making the decision.

Investment potential and rental income

A large part of foreign buyers do not view the property solely as a place for vacation, but also as an investment.
The possibility of tourist or long-term rental, stable returns and relatively low tax burden make Croatia competitive compared to other Mediterranean countries.
In the luxury segment, villas and apartments that can be rented out qualitatively with minimal management, as well as projects that offer professionally managed rental programs, are particularly sought after.
Such a model allows buyers carefree ownership and optimal use of the property.

Legal framework and purchase security

Foreign citizens from European Union member states can buy real estate in Croatia under the same conditions as domestic buyers, which further simplifies the process.
For buyers from third countries, the procedure is somewhat more complex, but still feasible with legal support and a clearly defined process.
Purchase security, clarity of contracts and reliable partners in the local market are often crucial factors in the final decision.
Therefore, foreign buyers are increasingly choosing agencies that offer a comprehensive service, from consulting and property selection to the coordination of legal and tax aspects.

What this means for the market in the coming years

The interest of foreign buyers will continue to have a strong impact on the Croatian real estate market, especially in the premium and luxury segment.
Stable demand for quality projects, clear price differentiation according to quality and location, and an increasing focus on long-term value, and not only quick profit, are expected.
For sellers and investors, this means that well-positioned properties, with a professional presentation and a clear strategy, have a significant advantage in the market.
Working with foreign buyers requires experience, an understanding of the market, and an individual approach.

Our team cooperates with international clients on a daily basis, helping them find a property that meets their lifestyle and investment goals.
If you are considering selling a property to foreign buyers or are an investor looking for a reliable opportunity in the Croatian market, contact our team.