Buying an apartment: tips, formalities and step-by-step process

Buying an apartment is one of the most important decisions in everyone's life. This comprehensive step-by-step guide will guide you through the entire process, showing you how to safely acquire your dream home. Whether you are considering buying an apartment from the secondary market or planning to buy an apartment from a developer, knowing the key steps will help you avoid costly mistakes.

The process of buying an apartment requires thorough preparation and knowledge of the applicable regulations and what formalities you must complete. Today's real estate market offers many opportunities – from new apartments in modern developments to attractive properties from the secondary market. Each option has its advantages and requires an appropriate approach.

The most common mistakes when buying real estate

Many people starting the process of buying an apartment make similar mistakes that can cost thousands of zlotys or lead to legal problems. Knowing these pitfalls will help you avoid them.

No proper check of the apartment

The basic mistake is to superficially check the apartment before making a purchase decision. The landlord may not disclose all defects, so it is necessary for the potential buyer to thoroughly inspect the apartment. This applies to both aftermarket apartments and new apartments from developers.

Key elements to check before purchasing a property:

1. Legal and technical documentation
   
2. Condition of electrical and hydraulic installations
   
3. Wall humidity and potential leaks
   
4. Functioning of heating and ventilation
   
5. Insulation of windows and doors

Ignorance of the differences between markets

Buying an apartment from the secondary market is very different from buying an apartment from a developer. An aftermarket apartment requires more thorough verification of its technical and legal condition, while a new apartment offers guarantees but may involve construction delays.

Errors in financing

Many buyers do not compare offers for apartments on credit, which may result in overpaying thousands of zlotys. An equally common mistake is not considering the option of buying a flat for cash, which can provide negotiating advantages.

Buying an apartment from the secondary market vs. buying from a developer

Choosing between an aftermarket apartment and a new developer apartment is crucial. Aftermarket housing often requires additional formalities, such as checking land and mortgage registers, while new housing may involve other costs. In the case of purchasing an apartment from the secondary market, it is also worth paying attention to the legal status of the property and possible mortgage burdens.

Aftermarket apartment – characteristics

Buying an apartment from the secondary market means purchasing the property from the current owner of the apartment. Secondary market properties are premises that have already been occupied and have their own operational history.

Advantages:

• greater negotiating possibilities with the landlord
• possibility of immediate relocation
• verified location and neighborhood
• often more attractive price per square meter

Challenges when purchasing from the secondary market:

• The need to thoroughly check the apartment – crucial before signing a preliminary contract
• Potential costs of renovation and modernization
• PCC tax payment obligation
• Verification of the legal history of the property

New apartment from a developer

These types of apartments often stand out for their modern standard of finishing and innovative technological solutions. When you decide to buy, you can count on a quality guarantee, which gives future owners the confidence that they are investing in a well-made product. Additionally, new apartments are often located in attractive locations, close to urban infrastructure, which increases their value and quality of life. It is also worth noting the possibility of personalizing the interior, which allows you to adapt the apartment to your own needs and preferences. Buying an apartment from a developer is therefore not only an investment, but also an opportunity to create a dream place to live.

Benefits of new apartments from the primary market:

• Often modern technical solutions
• Developer's guarantee for the work performed
• Possibility to choose the finish
• No PCC tax  

Potential problems:

• Risk of construction delays
• Higher price per square meter
• Costs of finishing the apartment
• Limited possibilities for price negotiation

Apartment buying process – step by step

Stage 1: Preparation

Budget analysis and preference determination
The first step in the process of buying an apartment is to realistically assess your financial capabilities. Determine whether you prefer a mortgage-backed apartment or are considering buying one with cash. Each option has different requirements and financial implications. It's also worth looking at your expenses and savings to determine how much you'll be able to afford. It is a good idea to prepare for additional costs associated with your purchase, such as notary fees, taxes, and possible renovations. Understanding your financial situation will help you make an informed decision that won't overburden your budget.

Choosing between different options:

• Aftermarket apartment vs. new apartment
• Apartment on credit vs. purchase with cash
• Location and size of the apartment or house
• Finishing and equipment standard

Stage 2: Housing search and selection

Searching for housing offers
Systematically reviewing apartment offers allows you to find the best options in a given budget. Pay attention to both “second-hand” apartments and new apartments in planned investments.

Housing selection criteria:

1. Compliance with budget and funding opportunities
   
2. Location and communication accessibility
   
3. Technical condition of the apartment (especially for the secondary market)
   
4. Prospects for development of the area – may significantly affect the value of the apartment in the future
   
5. Legal conditions and documentation

Stage 3: Apartment check and verification

Thorough inspection of the apartment
Every apartment requires professional inspection before making a purchase decision. The property verification process varies depending on whether it is a primary or secondary apartment.

Elements of apartment verification:

• Technical inspection of all rooms
• Checking legal documents
• Operating cost analysis
• Verification of development plans for the area
• Consultation with construction experts

Stage 4: Negotiation and formalization

Conversations with the owner of the apartment
Negotiating with the landlord is a key moment in the buying process. Prepare arguments to justify the price proposal, especially if you plan to buy the apartment for cash, which can be a significant negotiating asset.

Stage 5: Finalization of the transaction

Signing of the contract and finalization of the purchase
The final stage of the apartment purchase process includes signing the notarial deed and conducting financial settlements. Whether it's a home on credit or a cash purchase, the legal procedures are similar.

Stage 6: Apartment pickup

Once the process of buying an apartment is complete, it is time to collect the apartment. It is important to check the condition of the apartment carefully before handing over the keys. If there are any faults, they should be reported to the landlord or developer.

Costs of buying an apartment in 2025

Notary fees when buying an apartment

Every apartment purchase process involves notarial fees, the amount of which depends on the value of the transaction. These costs are borne by the buyer, whether it is the purchase of an apartment from the secondary market or a new apartment.

PCC Tax and Exemptions

Buying an apartment from the secondary market may involve the obligation to pay tax on civil law transactions. However, from 2023, there is an exemption from PCC for people buying their first apartment from the secondary market.

Conditions of exemption from PCC:

• First apartment purchased by the buyer
• The transaction concerns a secondary market apartment
• The buyer did not previously own residential property
• May hold a share of up to 50% in the property acquired in the estate

Mortgage costs

Living on credit generates additional costs related to financing. These include bank commission, housing insurance, valuation costs and other bank fees.

Formalities after buying an apartment

Mandatory submissions and procedures

The formalities after purchasing an apartment are a series of mandatory actions that the new owner of the apartment must complete within certain deadlines. Failure to comply with these obligations may result in financial penalties.

Main formalities after purchasing an apartment:

1.  Application at the municipal office  within 14 days of purchase
   
2.  Media rewriting  energy, gas, water, internet
   
3.  Housing insurance  mandatory with credit
   
4.  Entry in the land and mortgage register  securing property rights

Housing insurance

Housing insurance is a mandatory element when financing with a mortgage loan. Even when buying an apartment with cash, apartment insurance is strongly recommended as protection against accidental events.

Types of housing insurance:

• Insurance against fire and other accidental events
• Civil liability insurance
• Home movable property insurance
• Additional specialized insurance

Media rewriting and other formalities

Once the apartment purchase process is finalized, all utility contracts must be rewritten and other administrative formalities completed. This is an important piece of formality after purchasing an apartment, which ensures the proper functioning of the household.

Apartment on credit vs. purchase with cash

The decision whether to buy an apartment with cash or on credit is of great importance. A mortgage loan involves many formalities and costs. It is worth carefully analyzing your financial capabilities and comparing bank offers. When you buy an apartment with cash, you immediately become the owner and avoid the additional formalities associated with a loan.

Financing of housing with a mortgage

Housing on credit is the most popular way of financing the purchase of real estate in Poland. A mortgage loan allows you to buy an apartment with a smaller down payment, but it comes with a long-term financial obligation.

Benefits of living on credit:

• Possibility to buy with less savings
• Maintaining financial liquidity
• Distribution of costs over time
• Tax deductibility of interest

Purchase of an apartment with cash

Buying an apartment with cash eliminates credit costs and gives you an advantage in negotiations with the landlord. This form of financing is particularly attractive when purchasing real estate from the secondary market.

Advantages of buying with cash:

• Full ownership without bank charges
• No credit costs (interest, commissions)
• Negotiating advantage with the landlord
• Faster finalization of the apartment purchase process

Practical tips for buyers

How to choose the right apartment

The choice between an aftermarket apartment and a new apartment depends on individual preferences and financial possibilities. Each option has its advantages and requires different approaches in the process of buying an apartment.

Negotiations when purchasing an apartment

Effective negotiations with the landlord can result in significant savings. Especially when buying an apartment with cash, you have a strong negotiating position that can translate into a price reduction.

Checking the apartment before buying

A thorough inspection of your apartment is an investment that can save thousands of zlotys in the future. Professional technical expertise is especially important when purchasing properties from the secondary market.

Why choose to work with Velora Estate?

Comprehensive service for the apartment buying process

We are a real estate agency specializing in comprehensive customer service during the apartment purchase process. We help you find the perfect apartment or home, whether you are looking for an aftermarket property or a new apartment from a developer.

Our services include

• Professional search for apartments that meet your budget
• Detailed inspection of the apartment before purchase
• Support for negotiations  
• We work with experts who help you get a mortgage
• Handling formalities after purchasing an apartment

For investors and foreign clients

We also specialize in serving investors looking for an apartment or house as an investment of capital. We offer professional advice to international customers who are considering the most unattended or even completely remote purchase possible.  

Buying an apartment is a complex process that requires good organization and knowledge of formalities. Whether you are interested in an aftermarket apartment or a new one from a developer, it is crucial to plan each step carefully and seek advice from real estate experts.

Summary – key principles of buying an apartment

The 5 most important rules of the apartment buying process

1.  Carefully analyze your financial capabilities  take into account all costs of the apartment purchase process, not just the property price
   
2.  Choose the right financing option  compare the benefits of living on credit with the possibilities of buying an apartment for cash
   
3.  Conduct a thorough inspection of the apartment  especially when purchasing real estate from the secondary market, professional verification can save thousands of zlotys
   
4.  Complete all formalities when purchasing an apartment to avoid problems in the future  remember about application deadlines and mandatory housing insurance
   
5.  Get help from experts  professional support in the apartment buying process can protect against costly mistakes

Last tips

Buying an apartment is a long-term investment that requires well-thought-out decisions. Whether you choose an aftermarket apartment or a new apartment from a developer, the key to success is a reliable approach to every stage of the apartment purchasing process.

Remember that the landlord has his own interests, so always verify the information you receive and do not hesitate to ask additional questions. A thorough inspection of the apartment and proper formalities after purchasing the apartment are the basis for a secure transaction.

If you need professional support in the process of buying an apartment, our team is ready to help at every stage – from finding the perfect apartment or house, through negotiations, to finalizing all formalities after purchasing the apartment.