Turnkey Investment Properties in KosiceFor those seeking artheritage and income

Real estate in Košice: Slovakia’s eastern capital with rising investment momentum

Introduction: Why invest in Košice

Košice is the second-largest city in Slovakia and the economic, cultural, and administrative hub of the country’s eastern region. With a well-preserved historic center, a thriving student population, a growing tech and manufacturing sector, and significantly lower property prices than Bratislava, Košice is increasingly attractive to real estate investors. Its blend of urban infrastructure, international airport access, and affordable entry points makes it ideal for both yield and value-growth strategies within the European Union.

Property types in Košice

• Historic center apartments: Located in the Stare Mesto district, often renovated for short-term rentals or high-end tenants
• Panelák housing blocks: Affordable units in districts like Terasa, Furča, and Ťahanovce, ideal for long-term rental yield
• New-build developments: Emerging in KVP, Krásna, and Pereš, catering to professionals and families
• Detached family houses: Available in suburban zones like Myslava, Barca, and Lorinčík
• Land plots: In demand among local developers and long-term investors

Can foreigners buy property in Košice?

• EU/EEA citizens: May purchase property without any restrictions
• Non-EU citizens: Can legally buy property, including land, since 2011 reform
• Ownership: Full freehold titles apply to apartments, homes, and plots
• Registration: Mandatory entry into Slovakia’s cadastral register ensures transparency and security

Property prices in Košice

• Old Town apartments: €2,500–€3,800/m² depending on renovation
• Panel flats (3-bedroom): €1,500–€2,200/m² — especially in Terasa and Dargovských hrdinov
• New developments: €2,800–€3,800/m² in modern projects
• Detached homes: €180,000–€350,000 based on size and proximity to center
• Land plots: €50–€110/m² depending on zoning and utilities

Compared to Bratislava, property in Košice costs up to 40% less, offering greater accessibility for new investors and stronger yield-to-price ratios.

Rental demand and investment returns

• Long-term rentals: Yield 5%–7.5%, especially in panel housing and student apartments
• Short-term/Airbnb: Active in the Old Town and near cultural attractions; less regulated
• Student housing: High demand due to presence of Pavol Jozef Šafárik University, Technical University, and University of Veterinary Medicine
• Corporate and expat market: Growing due to IT firms, U.S. Steel operations, and regional logistics

Top districts for investment

• Stare Mesto (Old Town): Tourism, Airbnb, boutique apartments
• Terasa (Západ): Large residential zone with stable demand and public services
• KVP: Newer residential area, popular with families
• Myslava and Pereš: Quiet suburbs with modern housing and plots
• Barca: Close to Košice International Airport — ideal for logistics and commercial investors

Infrastructure and urban appeal

• Transport: Strong tram and bus networks; proximity to highways and rail
• Airport: Košice International Airport connects to Vienna, Prague, Warsaw, and seasonal destinations
• Education: Universities and international schools attract students and professionals
• Healthcare: National medical centers and private clinics
• Cultural life: Opera house, museums, St. Elisabeth Cathedral, jazz festivals, and urban cafés

Transaction costs and taxes

• Transfer tax: None — Slovakia does not apply property transfer tax
• Legal and notary fees: €600–€1,200 depending on complexity
• Annual property tax: Very low — usually under €80/year for a flat
• Rental income tax: 19% up to threshold, 25% above; costs are deductible
• Capital gains tax: 19% — waived if owned for 5+ years and not used for business

Residency and investment synergy

• EU citizens: Can invest and reside freely
• Non-EU buyers: May use property as part of documentation for income-based residence
• No direct residency program via real estate: But supports long-stay visa logic (business, retirement, self-sufficiency)

Example investment cases

• 1-bedroom flat in Terasa (55m² at €1,800/m²): Rent €650/month → ~7% yield
• Studio near Technical University (30m² at €2,200/m²): Rent €500/month → ~9% student-focused yield
• New-build apartment in KVP (70m² at €3,200/m²): Rent €1,100/month → ~5.8% gross return

Risks and considerations

• Lower liquidity than Bratislava: Sales may take longer, especially in older housing blocks
• Construction quality: Panelák buildings require inspection and potential renovation
• Market volatility: Less price speculation than in the capital, but steady long-term growth

How VelesClub Int. supports investments in Košice

• Selection of high-yield units in top districts based on local data
• Legal due diligence, buyer protection, and notarial transaction support
• Tenant screening and rental management (students, professionals, short-term guests)
• Support for non-EU investors in ownership, tax, and residency setup

Conclusion

Košice represents a prime opportunity for real estate investors looking to combine stable EU frameworks with attractive pricing and promising rental returns. With its educational institutions, expanding economy, and culture-rich environment, Slovakia’s second city is an increasingly appealing destination for both domestic and foreign buyers. With the guidance of VelesClub Int., investors can unlock Košice’s real estate potential and operate securely in one of Central Europe’s most undervalued urban markets.