How construction has changed in Bulgaria
In this article, we will trace the changes in construction in Bulgaria over the years and summarize the differences between new and old constructions, hoping to be helpful to you if you are looking to purchase a property for living or investment purposes.
In recent years, investing in real estate has become one of the most discussed topics. Despite the rising prices, the number of transactions is increasing, and loans are relatively cheap. A good deal for an apartment, house, plot, or any other real estate is considered when the price-to-area ratio is favorable. Some people lack practical information about the asset itself – the property.
Damage from World War II
Residential buildings up to the 1940s-1950s were mainly constructed with load-bearing walls made of solid bricks. Due to the numerous bombings after September 9, 1944, the directions in residential construction in Sofia were mainly determined by the need to restore the destroyed buildings and erase the many traces of the war.
The initial idea was to completely renovate outdated residential neighborhoods and replace them with modern housing complexes, but this gave way to another idea – new construction. Starting from central and already existing neighborhoods, reaching unbuilt and sparsely built areas.
In 1958, panel construction began, and the first buildings constructed were 6-story structures with a reinforced concrete skeleton. The first panel block was built in Sofia, but soon after, experimental construction began in Ruse.
Around 1970, the focus shifted to 8-story panel blocks. There were also 10-12-story panel buildings, but they were experimental and did not become widespread.
Soon after, the technology of large-panel formwork – EPK construction – was introduced. These were the tallest buildings of their time. The technology was created for constructing high-rise and low-rise blocks in earthquake-prone areas. Predominantly, there are 15-story EPK buildings, but there are also 24-story ones.
Half of Bulgaria’s existing housing stock was created during this period, 1956 – 1989, known as “old construction.” Panel and EPK constructions are not used today, but buildings with a steel skeleton and brick walls, known as “old brick,” are still being constructed today, referred to as “non-professional brick construction.”
It can be said that both old and new constructions use the same method, which, however, has been developed and improved over time.
The advantages of newly built buildings are many. The latest technologies and high-quality materials are used, and they have high energy efficiency. It goes without saying that they look much better visually and are much more functional. And it is not surprising that in recent years there has been an increasing interest from buyers in new construction housing.
Of course, both new and old construction have their pros and cons, which you can find in our article on this topic.
From a financial point of view, most buyers resort to buying homes “off-plan.” Construction companies and investors offer very good payment schemes, which can be individual according to the buyer’s capabilities and preferences. Buying an apartment from a developer also has its pitfalls. If the property is purchased before the issuance of Act 14, there is a risk of delay or even non-completion of the building. Therefore, it is good to research the companies involved in the process.
Each type of construction has its pros and cons but undoubtedly carries its charm. Whether you opt for new or old construction, when you are viewing an apartment, carefully examine the building in which your potential home is located. And don’t forget to do your research or simply consult a trusted broker to assist you. Or just contact us – Focus Real Estate.
