If you’re searching for an apartment in Podgorica with a budget of around180 000€, you’ll quickly realize that the same amount of money can buy two very different properties. This is no coincidence. According to MONSTAT, the average price of new-build apartments in Montenegro has been steadily increasing, meaning buyers today often have to choose between a smaller apartment in a new building and a larger one in an older residential building.
For the same budget, you could buy a 65 m² apartment in a newly built development, complete with a modern layout, elevator, and garage space. Or you could choose a 75 m² apartment in an older building, offering larger rooms, more storage, and a well-established neighbourhood.
At first glance, it seems like a simple choice between a smaller and a larger apartment. In reality, there’s much more to consider than square footage alone.
What Does a 65 m² New-Build Apartment Offer?
A 65 m² new-build apartment is usually designed to maximise every square metre. Hallways are more compact, open-plan kitchens flow into the living room, and the layout is carefully planned to make the apartment feel more spacious than its actual size.
Buying a new-build property also typically means you’ll benefit from:
- Better energy efficiency and lower utility costs
- An elevator and well-maintained common areas
- A garage or private parking space
- Brand-new electrical and plumbing installations
- Minimal maintenance or renovation costs after moving in
If you’re planning to move in immediately or purchase the apartment as an investment property, these advantages can make a significant difference.
What Does a 75 m² Apartment in an Older Building Offer?
On the other hand, an additional 10 square metres can noticeably improve your day-to-day living experience.
Apartments in older residential buildings often provide:
- Larger bedrooms
- A separate kitchen
- A more spacious living room
- More storage space
- Established neighbourhoods with schools, parks, shops, and public services already in place
However, before making a decision, it’s essential to inspect the property’s condition. Pay close attention to the electrical and plumbing systems, windows, façade, and shared areas of the building. A property with a lower purchase price may require substantial renovation costs within the first few years.
When Is a New-Build Apartment the Better Choice?
A new-build apartment is often the better option if you want a move-in-ready home without the need for renovations.
It may be the right choice if you:
- Are buying your first home
- Prefer lower maintenance costs
- Plan to rent out the property
- Value modern construction standards, elevators, and secure parking
In these situations, a slightly smaller apartment can easily outweigh the benefits of having additional square metres.
When Is an Apartment in an Older Building the Better Choice?
If your priority is living space or you’re planning to stay in the property for many years, an apartment in an older building may offer better value for your money.
The extra space can be especially valuable if you:
- Work from home and need a dedicated office
- Plan to expand your family
- Prefer a separate kitchen
- Value location more than the age of the building
Before making your final decision, be sure to include potential renovation costs in your calculations. This will give you a much clearer picture of the property’s true long-term cost.
Don’t Ask Which Apartment Is Better – Ask Which One Is Better for You
There isn’t a single right answer to whether a 65 m² new-build apartment is a better choice than a 75 m² apartment in an older building.
The right decision depends on your lifestyle today and your plans for the future. For some buyers, moving into a modern apartment without additional investment is the biggest advantage. For others, having more living space is worth far more than a brand-new façade or an elevator.
Before making your purchase, don’t focus only on the size of the apartment or the year the building was constructed. Think about how the property will support your everyday life, because that’s what ultimately determines its real value.
Next Steps
If you’re trying to decide whether a new-build apartment or an apartment in an older building is the better choice for your budget, our team is here to help. We’ll compare the available options and help you find the property that best fits your needs and long-term plans.
📞 +382 67 998 998
