If you’ve been following economic news in Montenegro recently, you’ve probably seen announcements about the new Europe Now 3 model, expected to take effect in January 2027. The proposed reform would increase net salaries across the country, with minimum wages ranging from €1,000 to €1,400 depending on education level and qualifications.
As a result, many potential buyers are thinking along the same lines: “If my salary will be higher in a few months, maybe it makes sense to wait until 2027 before buying a property.”
At first glance, that seems reasonable. However, real estate markets often react to expectations long before the actual changes take effect.
Why Is Buying Before Salary Increases Becoming a Hot Topic?
Purchasing power and real estate have always been closely connected.
When a large number of people expect higher incomes, many start seriously considering buying a property. Some believe they’ll qualify for a larger mortgage, while others expect to comfortably afford higher monthly payments.
The challenge is that thousands of other buyers may be making the same calculation at the same time.
As demand grows, competition for desirable properties increases. This often creates room for developers and sellers to adjust prices upward, particularly in locations where supply is already limited.
Does the Market Wait for January?
In most cases, it doesn’t.
Real estate markets tend to respond to expectations just as much as they respond to actual economic changes. When buyers anticipate greater purchasing power in the near future, many begin their property search long before the official implementation date.
We’ve seen similar patterns during previous economic reforms that increased disposable income. Higher salaries don’t just influence buyers — they also affect how sellers and developers perceive the value of their properties.
For that reason, part of the expected impact is often reflected in property prices before the reform officially takes effect.
A Higher Salary Doesn’t Automatically Mean a Better Deal
This is a detail many buyers overlook.
A salary increase may improve your mortgage eligibility or make financing more comfortable. That can certainly be an advantage.
However, if property prices rise during the same period, some of the benefit gained from a higher income may disappear through a higher purchase price.
In other words, the key question isn’t only how much you’ll earn in January. It’s also how much the property you’re considering today will cost by then.
What Are Serious Buyers Doing Right Now?
The most experienced buyers rarely try to perfectly time the market.
Instead, they focus on finding a property that meets their needs, fits their budget, and offers long-term value. When they find a well-priced property in a desirable location with clear ownership documentation, they rarely postpone the decision solely because of expected economic changes.
A similar approach can be seen among investors purchasing rental properties. Their decisions are usually based on long-term performance rather than short-term attempts to predict market movements.
If you’re considering real estate as an investment, you may also find our blog Investing in Real Estate in Montenegro: Does a 3.6% Rental Yield Justify Buying an Investment Property? useful.
Buying Before Salary Increases: What Should You Actually Consider?
There is no universal answer that applies to everyone.
If a salary increase would significantly improve your borrowing capacity or help you qualify for financing, waiting may make sense.
On the other hand, if you’re already in a position to purchase a property that suits your needs, it’s worth remembering that real estate markets respond to expectations, not just reality.
That’s why your decision shouldn’t be based solely on projected salary growth. The current market, the value of a specific property, financing conditions, and your long-term goals are equally important factors.
Real Estate Markets Don’t Always Wait for Official Changes
The Europe Now 3 model is one of the most discussed economic topics in Montenegro and could increase purchasing power for a large number of citizens starting in January 2027.
However, when it comes to real estate, it’s important to understand that markets often move ahead of official policy changes. That’s why buying a property isn’t just about what your salary might be in a few months — it’s also about how property prices may change before then.
Next Steps
If you’re planning to buy, sell, or rent a property and would like professional guidance throughout the process, our team is here to help.
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