The rise in prices of newly built flats can be offset by efficient floor plans

Property developers have had a strong year, and 2026 could even surpass last year. The resurgent demand has forced developers to step up their game, as clearly demonstrated by the current project of one of the country’s most significant market players. To mark the completion of the first phase, the press was invited to visit the new development.

Hungary’s leading residential property developer set a new record last year: Cordia sold more than 800 flats, and its portfolio of nearly 750 homes available at the end of December represented the widest range among its competitors.

Prices have risen significantly

At the event, Áron Görög, Commercial Director at Cordia, helped attendees understand the current market environment. As he said:

„Almost 10,000 homes were sold in 2025, which is a huge step forward. The markets, which had been disrupted by the war, have now stabilised. We are monitoring the market-shaping impact of the Otthon Start Programme, but the Cordia has not yet entered the market for properties covered by the programme.”

„In Budapest, the average price of a newly built flat reached 1,900,000 forints by the end of the year,” he pointed out, adding that the average size is around 60 m² . This naturally means that the price of an average flat is in the region of 110–120 million forints. Many people are therefore priced out of the market; it is difficult to cross this threshold, so we welcome any support schemes that assist prospective buyers. Nevertheless, in its current form, the OSP is not available to our buyers, as we cannot meet the expected price of 1,500,000 forints with the technical specifications our customers have come to expect from us.”

When it comes to size, it’s worth making a compromise today

„Construction began on nearly 11,500 homes last year, which is almost double the average of recent years. It’s an exciting market environment,” said the director.

The trend in house prices presents many people with a dilemma: if they do not wish to move to one of the outlying districts, they must make a sensible compromise regarding the size of their home. As noted in the Cordia report: according to experts, even a smaller flat can be comfortable, practical and liveable in the long term – provided its layout and fittings are well designed, and provided the building itself offers not just accommodation but also additional amenities and community services.

In modern residential property developments, there is an increasing focus on smartly designed, compact homes. In a well-designed home, the number of square metres is often less important than the quality of the layout or the range of amenities available to residents.

Efficient floor plan, thoughtful layout

A small flat really works well when the design manages to minimise wasted space. To achieve this, instead of the unnecessary hallways, nooks and hard-to-furnish corners typical of older homes, every part of the space must be given a function. In modern floor plans, we therefore often find solutions such as ergonomically designed, compact kitchens, built-in storage or multi-functional spaces.

„When choosing a smaller flat, it’s worth looking beyond the square metres. A good floor plan, practical layout and the quality of the surroundings are just as important. Much also depends on what communal spaces, green areas or extra services the development offers, and how well it connects to the city’s infrastructure and public transport. Modern building services solutions are also essential: for example, a heat pump-based underfloor heating and cooling system not only ensures energy-efficient operation and a balanced indoor climate, but also saves space in the home, as there is no need for radiators or separate air conditioning units. ”Whether someone is buying a flat for their own use or to let out, these factors determine in the long term how liveable and how well the property will retain its value,” pointed out Gábor Kovács, chief architect of Cordia, according to the company’s press release.

The experience of home goes beyond the home itself

A prime example of these principles is a 38.6-square-metre show flat in the Woodland by Cordia residential development. The layout of the flat demonstrates how a home with a compact floor plan can be made comfortable for two people. The carefully planned layout creates separate private areas, whilst the rooms are easy to furnish. The flat features an ergonomic kitchen, bespoke storage units and a study area integrated into the bedroom, whilst a multifunctional shelving system in the living room helps to divide the space. The utility room, situated in the bathroom hallway, provides additional practical storage space. The flat is complemented by a spacious balcony, which serves as a natural extension of the living space.

Modern residential developments are increasingly striving to provide residents not just with a flat, but with a comprehensive living environment, as the experience of home does not end at the property’s walls. At the Woodland by Cordia residential complex, communal spaces and amenities also contribute to residents’ comfort, as the multi-phase development offers facilities such as a communal lounge, fitness and wellness facilities, and outdoor relaxation areas, which will also include a swimming pool. Those moving here are therefore not just choosing a flat, but a comprehensive, high-quality living environment.