“We viewed apartment via FaceTime at 6 AM to catch good light” – laughs Mr. Michał. With his wife they bought 65m² in Grzegórzki without being in Poland once during entire process. Madness? Maybe. But increasingly common.
In our agency 30% of clients are Poles from abroad. London, Dublin, Chicago. Returning or investing. Pandemic taught us to work remotely. Also in real estate purchase.
The Kowalskis from Berlin searched for retirement apartment. Plan: return to Krakow in 5 years. “Wait? Prices rising, euro strong. We buy now” – they decided.`
Process took 3 months. They came only for finalization.
How does it work? Technology plus trust. Virtual tours are standard. But we go further. 360-degree camera, live streaming, even drone for showing area. Client sees more than at normal viewing.
Mrs. Anna from New York: “I viewed 5 apartments virtually. At third I knew – this is it”. We measured walls at her request, checked water pressure, recorded sounds at different times. “I felt like I was there”.
Key: detailed documentation. Photos of every corner, video with sound, plans with dimensions. Mr. Tomasz from Oslo asked for film how long walk to tram stop is. We recorded with commentary.
Technical inspection? No compromises here. We hire independent inspector. 30-page report, photos of every defect. Clients from Dublin resigned from apartment after report. “Better lose deposit than buy problem”.
Negotiations? Easier than in person. Lack of emotions during virtual viewing is advantage. The Szulcs from London negotiated 40 thousand discount. “Seller didn’t see our excitement” – they admit.
Documents? Notarial power of attorney. Polish consulates handle this. Or arrival only for finalization. Weekend in Krakow, signature at notary, keys in hand.
Biggest challenge? Trust. That’s why references crucial. 80% of our foreign clients are referrals. “I bought apartment through you, didn’t see you in person, but felt safer than with agency in London” – client wrote.
Is it worth it? The Wiśniewskis bought 2 years ago from Ireland. Just moved in. “Best decision. Apartment increased 20% in value, we have our place”.