Russians seek better homes—but distrust and costs hold them back
A growing number of Russians are looking to change or upgrade their homes within the next three years. According to recent data, 63% are considering a move, with 25% already making concrete plans. However, concerns about untrustworthy developers and rising costs remain key hurdles. Price is the biggest factor when choosing a home, with 54% of respondents listing it as their top concern. Transport links (51%) and well-developed infrastructure (45%) also rank highly. Despite this, nearly 75% of buyers now have higher expectations for their living spaces, with 32% reporting a significant increase in demands.
Among those planning to relocate, suburban areas (40%) are the most popular choice, followed by country homes (32%) and city centres (around 30%). While many dream of rural living, most still prefer suburban neighbourhoods with reliable infrastructure. Familiarity and predictability play a major role, with 67% of potential movers prioritising these factors over complete isolation.
Infrastructure (35%) is the top priority for active movers, ahead of ecological concerns (22%), proximity to work (18%), and space (18%). Digital solutions are also seen as essential, with 78% of those planning a move wanting security systems (63%), smart home features (49%), and energy-efficient technologies (48%). However, risks such as unscrupulous developers (62%), poor construction quality (53%), and rising property prices (45%) remain major worries.
Resale apartments continue to dominate the market, housing nearly 59% of those surveyed. Despite the interest in new options, most Russians still rely on established housing types while weighing their next steps. The trend shows a clear shift in housing preferences, with more Russians seeking upgrades or relocations in the near future. Digital features and infrastructure are becoming increasingly important, but financial concerns and trust issues still shape final decisions. As expectations rise, the market will need to adapt to meet these evolving demands.
