Two apartments can be located in the same area, have similar square footage, and still show a significant price difference. The reason isn’t always simply “price per square meter.” In the real estate market, the value of a property is determined by a combination of factors related to the apartment itself, the building, and its location.
Location
Even within the same neighborhood, there can be major differences. An apartment near a main road, public transport, or services may have a different demand than one just a few minutes away. But even when the location is nearly identical, the price can vary.
Floor, orientation, and view
One of the most noticeable factors is the floor level. Apartments on higher floors often have more natural light, better views, and less street noise. Orientation also matters. A unit with good daylight exposure can be more appealing to a buyer than a property of the same size with less natural light. The view is another element that can influence perception and value, especially in urban areas or with open landscapes.
Floor plan
Two 80 m² apartments aren’t necessarily equal. One may have a functional layout, efficient use of space, and well-placed rooms. The other might feature long corridors or awkwardly shaped areas that are harder to utilize. Therefore, square footage should be considered alongside how that space is actually used.
Building and property quality
The year built, quality of materials, building maintenance, elevator availability, management of common areas, and construction standards all contribute to value. A renovated and well-maintained apartment can command a different market position than a same-sized property needing further investment.
Parking
In areas where parking is limited, an apartment with a dedicated parking space can hold a significant advantage over a similar unit without one. This is why it’s important not to compare only the total price of two properties, but also what is actually included in that price.
Price per m²
Focusing only on a price-per-square-meter figure can oversimplify the comparison between properties that aren’t truly alike. A fair analysis must consider location, floor level, orientation, view, layout, condition, parking, building quality, and documentation. Ultimately, two properties in the same area can have different prices because they don’t necessarily offer the same value.
