When buying property in Montenegro, many foreigners naturally compare their choices with those of locals. While this can sometimes be useful, it’s not always the best approach—especially when making an investment rather than settling down. At Adria Stone, we’ve observed key differences in how locals and international buyers view real estate, and we believe these insights are worth sharing.
1. Location: Living vs. Investing
Montenegrin locals typically choose homes based on practicality. They prioritize proximity to work, schools, healthcare centers, and municipal offices. If you’re planning to live here long-term, this mindset makes sense.
However, if your goal is short-term rental income or a vacation home, you should consider different criteria. Tourists seek stunning views, beachfront locations, luxury complexes with amenities, and vibrant city centers. The best rental properties are in high-demand areas like Budva’s waterfront, Porto Montenegro, or luxury resorts.
2. Distance: A Different Perspective
Montenegro is a small country, and locals often perceive distances differently than foreigners. For example, many Montenegrins consider living in Bečići while working in Budva (a mere 3 km apart) as “too far.” In reality, this is just a five-minute drive!
Foreign buyers have helped shift this mindset, showing that convenience is relative. This means that some great properties might be overlooked simply due to local habits.
3. Legal Considerations: Don’t Follow Risky Local Practices
Some locals are more relaxed about property paperwork, sometimes purchasing homes with missing permits or unclear title deeds to save money. This approach is risky—especially as Montenegro moves toward EU membership, where strict legal standards will become the norm.
Banks are already tightening regulations, often refusing mortgages for properties with unresolved legal issues. Future laws might even require buyers to cover extra taxes or legalize the property at their own expense. For both locals and foreigners, we strongly advise against buying real estate with legal uncertainties.
4. Why Locals Avoid Some Prime Investment Areas
Old Town Budva or Center, a highly desirable area for tourists, is often avoided by locals due to summer crowds and parking challenges. However, for investors, this is one of the best-performing real estate markets for rental income. Understanding these differences can help you make better investment decisions.
How to Ask Locals for Advice (Without Getting Misled!)
When seeking local recommendations, be specific about your goals:
If you want long-term rental income, ask: Which areas are best for comfortable year-round living?
For short-term rentals, ask: Which beaches are the most popular with tourists?
If aiming for high occupancy all year round, ask: Which areas attract the most visitors in all seasons?
Or, even better—ask Adria Stone! Our experience allows us to analyze your exact needs and provide tailored insights beyond common stereotypes. We love sharing our observations with clients because real estate in Montenegro is full of fascinating details, and making the right choice requires sharp expertise.
Final Thoughts
Comparing your choices to locals’ habits can be helpful, but only when done with the right context. Whether you’re looking for a home or an investment, understanding the market from different perspectives is essential. And that’s where we come in.
Want to find the perfect property for your specific needs? Let’s talk!
