The Russian real estate market (2024)

If you’re looking to invest in Russian real estate, then our useful guide to buying apartments, houses, and other property in Russia, can help you through the process.

The Russian real estate market has a relatively short history. In the Soviet era, all properties were state-owned; people only had the right to use them with apartments allocated based on one’s place of work. As a result, options for moving were fairly limited. However, after the fall of the Soviet Union, the Russian real estate market emerged and Muscovites could privatize and subsequently sell and buy properties for the first time. Today, Russian real estate is booming. It offers many exciting opportunities and high returns for lifestyle and investment.

This guide to buying property in Russia includes the following topics:

  • Is now a good time to buy property in Russia?
  • Property prices in Russia
  • Where to buy in Moscow?
  • Central Moscow property
  • Moscow outer districts
  • Russian real estate agents
  • How to buy Russian real estate
  • Checking a property’s history
  • Costs of buying Russian real estate
  • Bank fees
  • Depositary agreements
  • Notarization
  • The closing procedure on Russian real estate

Is now a good time to buy property in Russia?

The economic and political climate in Russia over the past few years with economic trade embargos after their intervention in Crimea and Ukraine, the crash of the Russian currency, high inflation rates, and high interest rates have all put the country into a recession. Inevitably this affected houses prices across the country, including property prices in Moscow.

On the surface, without inflation adjustments, Moscow property market still appears to be growing, but in a report by Global Property Guide from 2015, the figures issued by the Federal State Statistics – Rosstat, actually showed a decline when taking inflation into account.

While this may sound bad for sellers who had previously enjoyed high demand, high property prices and plenty of buyers, the Russian housing market has slowed down. However, for buyers, in particular foreign investors, now could be the perfect time to buy property in Moscow. Prices are relatively low, but with forecasts for oil prices to rise in 2017 and the economy beginning to recover, these could provide good returns on investment.

Avoid the most common mistakes expat homebuyers make

Property prices in Russia

Moscow is a densely populated capital with over 12 million residents. The city is circular surrounded by four rings spanning from the Kremlin in the center to the Moscow Ring Road or MKAD that defines the city’s limit, with the exception of a few annexed territories.

Inside the rings, the city is divided into ten administrative divisions called okrugs, which in turn are subdivided into 123 districts.

Property prices for buying in Moscow are usually listed with a price per square meter in Roubles, and sometimes with a total property price. Recent figures from Numbeoput average prices for buying an apartment in Moscow at around 308,500 Roubles per square meter in the city center and 147,000 Rubbles outside of the city center.

If you’re buying property in Moscow, like most cities, location, size, and type of property will dictate the price and what you can afford. City center apartments in Moscow come at a premium price. Although, there are a number of areas outside of the city center that also demand a high price in wealthy and desirable districts near the Garden Ring. These areas offer leafy suburbs, more open spaces, bigger properties all with good transport links.

Also, some of the modern developments with high-specs geared towards the luxury market and foreign investors will also be more expensive. For example, within the Central Administrative Okrug in areas like Presnensky District, also known as Presnya, as well as Sokol, luxury apartments can go for millions of Roubles.

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Where to buy in Moscow?

Moscow is constantly plagued by traffic jams, so driving in Moscow can be a frustrating and long process, so when considering where to buy in Moscow, factoring in public transport links and commute times to work, school or socializing is vital.

The Moscow Metro, is one of the longest in the world with nearly 340 km of underground lines that services 203 stations as of 2016, so finding an area that has good links shouldn’t be difficult.

For many expats, buying a Moscow apartment in a central location within or a close proximity to the Central Administrative Okrug is preferable providing a minimal commute, all amenities and should you need to rent your apartment in Russia, finding a tenant in these highly sought after areas shouldn’t be too much of a problem.

Central Moscow property

Surrounding the Kremlin are a number of districts within the Central Administrative Okrug. Just like the rental market, areas around Tverskaya Street will always be a good investment and have the vibrant city right on their doorstep, but prices per square meter will be some of the highest in Moscow. Similarly, the areas of Arbat, Kropotkinskaya, Smolenskaya, and Patriarchy Ponds slightly further west, along with Chistye Prudy to the east will still deliver a central location and a good return.

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Moscow outer districts

Buying property in Moscow outside of the central districts provides you with more options in terms of budget and types of property. Popular areas with an affluent clientele tend to be located in the west, southwest, and northwest of the city in areas such as the Sokol district, Shchukina, Voykovskaya, and Filakovsky, which all have plenty of green spaces and a choice of different types properties.

Another area favored by those who want close proximity to the center, but more fresh air and quiet residential areas are located around the Sadovoye Koltso or Garden Ring Road and the Boulevard Ring Road, which are both former boundaries of the city. Tagansky district on the eastern side of the Garden Ring is an up-and-coming area that was traditionally working class, but business investment in the area has seen a number of modern residential developments being built.

For those moving to Russia with families, the Kuntsevo/Krylatskoye district west of the center near the MKAD is ideal with good access to the International School of Moscow and it is considered the most ecological area in the city. Leninsky prospect to the south is also a popular residential area for expats as there are a number of excellent international and national schools.

To bag a bargain, property in Moscow on the lower end of the price scale can be found to the east and south in the more industrialized districts. However, these areas will still provide good transport connections to the city and could mean you can afford more space yet still feel like you’re in the heart of the city. Seek local knowledge of a reputable Russian real estate agent in Moscow will help you to find a decent area.

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Russian real estate agents

When it comes to buying property in Russia, a great deal of information on properties for sale is listed in public sources or available online and in different publications.

However, selecting the property and organizing a viewing, as well as determining which options are more or less attractive requires experience, which is why, particularly as a foreign investor, it’s advisable to use a reputable Russian real estate agent. They will be able to provide the most complete and current information on all properties on the market, including the ones that are not publicly listed and provide invaluable local knowledge. In addition, they can assist with carrying out due diligence on a property and structuring a safe transaction.

You should always use a real estate broker or a lawyer with Russian real estate experience to represent your interests during your transaction.

How to buy Russian real estate

Once you’ve fathomed out which areas tick all your boxes and found a property, it’s time to start thinking about the practicalities of buying in Moscow.

Checking a property’s history

The real estate laws are continuously changing to ensure careful research is carried out on the property history because, in some instances, your ownership rights may be challenged by previous owners or people formally registered in the apartment. Usually, such risks can be eliminated if determined before the real estate transaction.

Costs of buying Russian real estate

It is the norm in Moscow for a buyer to cover all closing expenses, including notary fees, state registration fees, and bank expenses. Also, if using a real estate agent to find your property and/or negotiate your deal, you will be charged a brokerage fee. This includes property search, property and seller background check, review of the ownership documents history and the “rights of use” check, arranging the deal closing, and the supervision of the final property transfer to the new buyer. The brokerage fee is usually calculated as a percentage of the sale price ranging from 6 percent for cheaper properties to 3 percent for more expensive properties.

The seller’s brokerage fee covers property evaluation and appraisal, property marketing and arranging property viewings, negotiating with potential clients, preparing the complete set of necessary documents for the transaction, arranging the deal closing, and supervising the final property transfer.

Bank fees

The majority of real estate transactions are made in cash and sale-purchase transactions always take place in a Russian bank with the bank’s safety deposit boxes acting as an escrow account to guarantee buyers and sellers the payment is made upon the final ownership transfer. Full funds are deposited and only released to the seller when the complete package of registered documents under the buyer’s name is presented.

Depositary agreements

Most Russian real estate deals extend over a period of five weeks to several months, requiring collection of various documents from state institutions and the buyer may need to secure finances or the seller may need to find an alternative residence. For this reason, a preliminary or depository agreement is made between the buyer and the seller detailing the terms and conditions of the future sale and what necessary from both parties.

Upon signing the preliminary agreement, which can be an advance payment (Avans) or property deposit (Zadatok), buyers pay a deposit to take the property off the market while the required documents are assembled and the close of sale is made. The deposit amount isn’t a set percentage, but usually a round figure agreed by both parties. Always ensure you use an experienced and reliable agent or an experienced Russian real estate lawyer to draft a depositary or preliminary agreement and perform the due diligence on the property.

Notarization

Notarization of a sale-purchase isn’t required by law, but it is advised as it is the equivalent of buying title insurance. Notary fees vary depending on the sale price of the property, ranging from 0.7% for more expensive properties to 1.5% for less expensive ones.

The closing procedure on Russian real estate

Once due diligence and paperwork is complete, the closing procedure begins, where funds are deposited in the bank and both parties sign the sale-purchase agreement. The sale agreement is then submitted for state registration (propiska).

On the property transfer date, the parties need to sign an Acceptance Act, usually at the bank, notary or real estate office. This certifies that the property is transferred to the buyer in the agreed condition.

Registration of the sale-purchase agreement with the Federal Registration Service for Moscow makes the transfer of property rights official. This usually takes 30 calendar days to complete, but this can be expedited if you’re using a mortgage to finance the property.

Learn more about getting a mortgage in Russia

The Russian real estate market (2024)

FAQs

How much is the average house in Russia? ›

Housing costs in Russia

According to Numbeo, a one-bedroom flat in the center of Moscow costs 50,000 p. to 100,000 p. Meanwhile, outside the city center, prices are, on average, 40,000 p. For a three-bedroom apartment in Moscow city center, you can expect to pay about 145,000 or 75,000 on the outskirts.

How is real estate in Russia? ›

Currently, Russia's real estate market is facing a decline in demand for new properties due to rising consumer prices. Therefore, the government provides financial support for mortgages. In July 2022, the average weighted mortgage loan interest rate was below seven percent.

Can a US citizen buy property in Russia? ›

According to Russian law, foreigners are usually allowed to purchase or rent property in Russia, but certain exceptions apply. Also, in order to be allowed to buy a property, the foreign citizen must hold a valid Russian resident permit.

What is the impact of Russia Ukraine on real estate? ›

Russia's invasion of Ukraine completed a year on February 24, 2023. This invasion had a direct impact on India's real estate, increasing property prices by around seven per cent, according to Knight Frank India's data.

What is the good salary to live in Russia? ›

RelatedLastUnit
Wages Low Skilled19900.00RUB/Month
Wages High Skilled48300.00RUB/Month
Living Wage Individual14500.00RUB/Month
Living Wage Family23700.00RUB/Month

Is it cheaper to live in Russia than America? ›

The average cost of living in Russia ($787) is 64% less expensive than in the United States ($2213). Russia ranked 110th vs 5th for the United States in the list of the most expensive countries in the world.

Do most Russians own their own homes? ›

Home Ownership Rate in Russia averaged 83.94 percent from 2000 until 2021, reaching an all time high of 92.50 percent in 2020 and a record low of 58.20 percent in 2000.

How much is an acre of land worth in Russia? ›

But Russian land averages $400 per acre -- a mere 10 percent of the cost in France, and 20 percent of the price of land in Brazil. In the countryside, Russia's capitalist revolution is still a work in progress.

Do Russian citizens own property? ›

Any legal entity or individual may own private land in the Russian Federation, subject to certain restrictions which regulate the legal status of the land plot. Foreign nationals and legal entities enjoy the same rights to land plots as Russian individuals and legal entities.

Can I move to Russia as American? ›

You will need a work visa called a Standard Work Permit unless you are a permanent resident and if you are planning to work in the country for any length of time. If you are in Russia on a short term contract – less than 90 days – you can obtain a Business Visa: the paperwork for this is rather less complex.

Can you move to Russia from USA? ›

You can apply for a permanent residence permit within three years of graduation on a temporary residence permit. Through the PRP, you can also be eligible for Russian citizenship. Note: Eligible students are allowed to work with a temporary residence permit.

Can an American move to Russia permanently? ›

Permanent Residence: Foreign citizens intending to permanently reside in Russia can obtain a permanent residence permit (vid na zhitelstvo) valid for five years that may be extended an unlimited number of times. Foreigners may apply for it at the local FMS based on their at least one-year residence in Russia.

What happens to real estate during war? ›

It is fair to say that war, unto itself, rarely has a direct impact on commercial real estate. Instead, wartime activities can cause instability in the marketplace, drumming up economic fear (perceived and real) that can have follow-on effects as it pertains to commercial real estate.

How much property has Russia taken from Ukraine? ›

A new Guardian analysis of Institute for the Study of War data shows that, after once having seized as much as 51,000 sq miles (132,000 sq km) of Ukrainian land, Russia has since lost a fifth of this. It now controls 40,000 sq miles of Ukrainian land, entirely in the south and east.

What will be the impact on market if Russia invades Ukraine? ›

This means that an aggregate stock market index based on firms in the CEP study's sample fell by 1.53% in valuation for the average country due to international linkages to Russia. European countries are among the most affected, indicating the potential for significant long-term consequences for these nations.

How much is a gallon of milk in Russia right now? ›

Cost of Living in Russia
RestaurantsEdit
co*ke/Pepsi (12 oz small bottle)73.50руб
Water (12 oz small bottle)37.93руб
MarketsEdit
Milk (regular), (1 gallon)295.78руб
62 more rows

Is Russia healthcare good? ›

A Guide to Russia's Healthcare System

The 2021 Health Care Index lists Russia's system as 58th best out of 89 countries, with a very low score for quality of infrastructure. A Bloomberg report ranks Russian healthcare last out of 55 developed countries based on the efficiency of state healthcare systems.

How tall is the average Russian man? ›

Download Table Data
CountryAvg Male Height (cm)Avg Female Height (cm)
United States176.94163.31
Tunisia176.85161.69
Russia176.65164.52
Hungary176.59162.55
81 more rows

What are disadvantages of living in Russia? ›

- CON: Weather

As Russia is such a large country, the weather varies dramatically. No matter where in the country they live though, expats must prepare themselves and adapt their lifestyles for long, cold winters, and shorter spring, summer and autumn seasons. Winters can be harsh.

How much does the average Russian make in US dollars? ›

What is average wage in Russia? Average Wages in Russia increased to 71334 RUB/Month (864.496 USD/Month) in March 2023. The maximum rate of average wage for employees was 69278 RUB/Month and minimum was 0 RUB/Month. Data published Monthly by Ministry for Economic Development.

How much is gas in Russia in US dollars? ›

Latest data on Gasoline Prices (USD/Liter)

Gasoline Price in Russia remained unchanged at 0.64 USD/Liter in May 2023. The maximum price per litre was 1 USD/Liter and minimum was 0.28 USD/Liter. Data published Monthly by National Statistics.

Where do rich Russians live? ›

Belgravia is where many of these billionaires — including Russian oligarchs Roman Abramovich and Oleg Deripaska — invest in multimillion-dollar homes. The neighborhood is part of the "Moscow-on-Thames" property market, which has forced wealthy Londoners out of prime postcodes.

What is the average apartment size in Russia? ›

An average apartment size in the North Caucasian federal district of Russia as of November 2022 was set at nearly 60 square meters, which was the largest area compared to rest of the regions.

Where do 80% of all Russians live? ›

About 80 percent of all Russians live EAST of the Ural Mountains. DURING World War II, the Soviet Union was engaged in political and ideological war with the West, particularly the United Sates, which brought the world to the brink of nuclear war.

How much land is unlivable in Russia? ›

However, large parts of Russia are uninhabited or uninhabitable because permafrost (soil that remains frozen throughout the year and is unsuitable for agriculture) covers more than 60% of Russia's territory.

Who owns the most land in Russia? ›

In 2022, Miratorg listed as the largest agricultural holding by farmland ownership in Russia. Prodimex ranked second with about 900 thousand hectares in ownership in that year. EcoNiva APK displayed a significant growth in its farmland volume over the past years, accounting for over 630 thousand hectares in 2022.

Does Russia own farmland in the US? ›

Vilsack said in a Thursday Senate hearing that Russia, China, Iran, and North Korea together own under 400,000 acres of agricultural land as of 2021.

Do Russians pay property tax? ›

Russian property tax is paid by the owners at a maximum rate of 2% of the value of the property, depending on the value of the property as determined on 1 January: Lower than 300,000 p: 0.1% 300,000–500,000 p: 0.1 to 0.3%

What percentage of Russians own cars? ›

The number of car owners in Russia is on the rise, with nearly half of all Russians now possessing an automobile. A new poll by the Russian polling agency VTsIOM held in 46 regions across Russia says that 47 percent of respondents said they have purchased a vehicle, up from 36 percent in 2006.

Do Russians own or rent? ›

The share of Russians who own an apartment or a house is relatively high and amounts to about 54 percent. About 11 percent reside in a rented apartment or house. The rest live with their relatives or friends. There are several major types of apartment blocks common in Russia.

Can you own guns in Russia? ›

Firearms may be acquired for self-defense, hunting, or sports activities, as well as for collection purposes. Carrying permits may be issued for hunting firearms licensed for hunting purposes.

How long can US citizens stay in Russia? ›

For visas with shorter periods of validity, unless that visa specifically authorizes employment or study, a foreigner may stay in Russia only 90 days in any 180-day period. This applies to business, tourist, humanitarian and cultural visas, among other categories.

How many Russian citizens live in USA? ›

According to the Institute of Modern Russia in 2011, the Russian American population is estimated to be 3.13 million. The American Community Survey of the U.S. census shows the total number of people in the U.S. age 5 and over speaking Russian at home to be slightly over 900,000, as of 2020.

How much is cost of living in Russia? ›

The average cost of living in Russia for families can be anywhere from 30,000 rubles to 35,000 rubles per month, excluding utilities. While Moscow and Saint Petersburg are relatively expensive to live in, Novosibirsk is one of the cities in Russia with low cost of living.

Can a US citizen get Russian citizenship? ›

The common process of getting Russian citizenship is through naturalization. Candidates must present a valid residence permit and proof they have not lived outside Russia for more than 3 months per year.

Can you hold Russian and US citizenship? ›

A U.S. citizen may acquire foreign citizenship by marriage, or a person naturalized as a U.S. citizen may not lose the citizenship of the country of birth. U.S. law does not mention dual nationality or require a person to choose one citizenship or another.

Is there still a US Embassy in Russia? ›

There is one U.S. Embassy in Moscow and two Consulates General in Vladivostok and Yekaterinburg.

Is it safe to travel to Moscow as an American? ›

You may encounter an increased security presence with potential disruptions to transport and movement, especially in areas near Russian military installations. Avoid all travel to Russia. If you decide to remain despite this advisory, be aware that: you may have to stay in Russia longer than expected.

Can Mexican citizens travel to Russia? ›

I HAVE A MEXICAN PASSPORT, DO I NEED A RUSSIA VISA FOR MEXICANS? Every Mexican visitor needs a visa to travel to the biggest country in the World. But, for your benefit, you can use iVisa.com to apply for a Kalinigrad eVisa or a Far East eVisa, as long as you keep in mind that these eVisas apply only for those regions.

Where to invest if a war is coming? ›

Defense stocks, energy stocks, commodities, cash, and ETFs are stocks and investments that typically do well during times of war and conflict. However, it is often best to build a well-diversified portfolio than try to pick the individual winning stocks during a conflict.

What happens to real estate during economic collapse? ›

Key takeaways

Mortgage rates typically drop during a traditional recession. Home prices can drop as well, with fewer qualified buyers and less competition for homes.

What if your house is destroyed in war? ›

If your property is insured and such insurance covers loss from war, insurance company may compensate for the loss or for repair of property subject to inspection. If you are on the side of winning country, reparations from the loosing country may cover such property destroyed or cost of its repair.

How many troops does Russia have left? ›

In terms of active-duty personnel, they are the world's fifth-largest military force, with 1.15 million and at least two million reserve personnel.

How many troops does Ukraine have left? ›

Armed Forces of Ukraine
Ukrainian Armed Forces
Active personnel~700,000 (2022)
Reserve personnel1,000,000 (2022)
Deployed personnel40,114 (2021)
Expenditures
25 more rows

What percentage of Ukraine does Russia own? ›

On June 2, 2022, Zelenskyy announced that Russia occupied approximately 20% of Ukrainian territory.

Is it expensive to live in Russia? ›

The average cost of living in Russia for families can be anywhere from 30,000 rubles to 35,000 rubles per month, excluding utilities. While Moscow and Saint Petersburg are relatively expensive to live in, Novosibirsk is one of the cities in Russia with low cost of living.

How much is a Big Mac in Moscow? ›

The price of Combo meal in fast food restaurant (Big Mac Meal or similar) in Moscow is руб 386. This average is based on 43 price points. It can be considered reliable and accurate. Latest update: April 26, 2023.

What is the minimum wage in Russia? ›

The minimum wages have been revised in Russia with effect from 01 January 2023. The federal minimum wage has changed from RUB15,279.00 to RUB16,242.00 per month.

How much is the average house in Moscow? ›

$428,656. The average Moscow home value is $428,656, up 1.5% over the past year and goes to pending in around 12 days.

How much is a gallon of milk in Russia today? ›

Cost of Living in Russia
RestaurantsEdit
Milk (regular), (1 gallon)296.91руб
Loaf of Fresh White Bread (1 lb)42.56руб
Rice (white), (1 lb)46.42руб
Eggs (regular) (12)102.23руб
62 more rows

Can you use US dollars in Russia? ›

If you plan to buy roubles in Russia, you should take US dollars or euros to exchange, and only change money at banks, hotels and exchange bureaus. It is an offence to change money from street traders. It's illegal to pay directly for general transactions within Russia using foreign currency.

How much do cigarettes cost in Russia? ›

Cigarettes are available in high- (at least RUB 30 or US$ 1.10 per pack), middle- (RUB 10–29 or US$ 0.37–1.10 per pack), and low- (less than RUB 9 or US$ 0.33 per pack) priced categories. Non-filtered cigarettes are available for as little as RUB 4 (US$ 0.15) per pack of 20.

How warm does Russia get in the summer? ›

The average temperature during summers is usually at 18°C (64°F). However, sometimes it gets really hot and thermometers climb up to 30°C (86°F). The coldest month obviously is January with an average temperature of -6°C (22°F). The wettest months are October & November.

How many hours do Russians work? ›

CharacteristicAverage weekly hours worked
Q2 202238.2
Q1 202238.2
Q4 202138.2
Q3 202137.2
8 more rows
Mar 27, 2023

How much is rent in Russia? ›

RENT PER MONTH

It also depends on the particular city you want to live in. If you're looking for an apartment in the center of any major city, it will cost you around 460$. However, if you have your eye on any Russian suburbs, the price will drop to around 270$.

How much money does the average person make in Russia? ›

Wages in Russia averaged 18638.69 RUB/Month from 1990 until 2023, reaching an all time high of 88468.00 RUB/Month in December of 2022 and a record low of 0.00 RUB/Month in February of 1990.

How much is an average meal in Moscow? ›

Eating Out: Average prices

An average meal at a modest restaurant should cost around 500 roubles (just over $8), with a three-course meal at a mid-range establishment costing 2,000 roubles ($30). But of course, this varies enormously depending on the city, cuisine, and even the time of day.

What is a typical Russian home? ›

A Khrushchyovka is probably the most popular type. Usually it is a 4 or 5-storied concrete-paneled or brick apartment building with notoriously small apartments, extensively constructed in the 1960s and 1970s to solve the housing problem.

What is average rent for an apartment in Moscow Russia? ›

In 2021 apartments for rent in Moscow, Russia, cost around 1 500 USD per month on average in the central areas of the city (ignoring the elite options). The most affordable rentals are located in districts close to the MKAD (a.k.a. Moscow Ring Road) – these are thrice as cheap, at around 500 USD per month.

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