Renting vs Buying in Batumi
If you're living in Batumi or planning to move here, one of the biggest decisions you'll face is whether to rent or buy a property? With the city rapidly developing and property prices still much lower than in Western Europe, North America, and parts of the Middle East and Asia, it's a fair question, and the answer isn't always obvious.
4 Reasons Why Many Expats Rent IN Batumi
Flexibility: Renting gives you the freedom to stay without a long-term commitment. Month-to-month or short-term stays is ideal for experiencing daily life in Batumi, getting a feel for the neighbourhoods, and most importantly, deciding if living and eventually buying property here is right for you. Just be aware that prices can rise sharply during high season.
Lower upfront cost: Renting typically requires just one month’s rent and a deposit, which makes it seem cheaper upfront. However when compared to flexible payment plans, co-investing possibilities with friends or family, and the mortgage options available for expats, buying a property in Batumi is more within reach than most think.
Minimal legal setup: Renting in Batumi is quick and straightforward. With just your passport and a signed rental agreement, you can often process everything on the same day and move into the property hassle-free.
Utilities and furniture included: Most rentals in Batumi come furnished and often include utilities. From November to April, there’s more availability and lower prices, making it the best time to secure a long-term rental for 6–12 months or more.
But renting also has its downsides: you're paying someone else’s mortgage, rents are rising fast year-on-year, and rental availability is seasonal, more in (Nov–Apr) or far less in (May-Oct).
How Expats Are Buying Property in Batumi
While Georgian banks have specific requirements for non-residents, it is possible to successfully secure mortgages by meeting standard criteria. If you’d like help navigating the process, we offer a free consultation (we speak English, Georgian, French and Russian) to discuss your property needs, financing options, and guide you through securing a mortgage and purchasing the property — Contact us to get started.
How to Get a Mortgage in Batumi as a Foreigner:
30% Down Payment: Most banks require a minimum of 30% of the property value as a down payment.
Stable Income: Proof of a consistent income source—local or international—is essential.
Bank Statements: Typically 6 months of bank statements are requested to verify income history.
Passport: You don’t need to be a resident to buy, but banks will ask for your passport and ID to confirm who you are.
Property Valuation: The bank may check the property’s real value before approving the mortgage.
Property Insurance: Some banks ask you to insure the property before approving the loan. It protects both you and the bank.
Yes, expats can get mortgages, and financing is possible.
Why buying a property in batumi makes sense
It’s a great investment (especially now): Batumi’s property market is one of the strongest investment opportunities in the region. New builds consistently appreciate by 6–10% annually, and demand continues to grow as more people discover the city’s lifestyle and investment potential. When you buy, you’re not just securing a home, you’re putting your money into a real asset that increases in value year after year.
Expats Are Buying with Financing and Mortgage Options:
For expats exploring property ownership in Georgia, financing is absolutely possible. While Georgian banks have specific requirements for non-residents, many foreigners successfully secure mortgages by meeting standard criteria.
Your monthly payments stay consistent: When you buy, your payments are fixed; no unexpected rent increases or sudden moves. Renting month-to-month or on short-term leases can mean constant change, higher costs, and uncertainty. Ownership gives you predictability and peace of mind, so you can focus on your work, your goals, or settling your family without housing disruptions.
Property here isn’t speculative: it’s backed by steady growth, rising rental demand, and a system that allows foreigners full ownership. Many expats who start with one apartment quickly realise the potential and go on to buy a second or third. Buying in Batumi is not only smart—it’s a proven way to build lasting value and long-term security.
Rental income opportunity: If you’re not living in the apartment year-round, you can rent it out and cover much—if not all—of your costs. Many expats live in their property during the quieter low season (November to April), then rent it out at high daily or weekly rates during the summer months. Demand in Batumi is strong, especially in peak season, and short-term rentals generate excellent returns. You can also hand everything over to a property management company who will handle bookings, guests, and cleaning for you—making it a hassle-free source of income.
Permanent base: Buying gives you a stable home you can return to anytime. Whether you’re a retiree, remote worker, or digital nomad, it means having roots in a growing, safe, and affordable city. You don’t have to rely on seasonal rentals or short leases—you have your own place, on your terms, in a location that offers both lifestyle and long-term value.
Route to residency and eventually citizenship: Buying property in Georgia gives you the right to apply for residency. It’s a direct, simple path that many expats use to stay long term and later apply for citizenship.
Even if you're a foreigner, buying in Georgia is straightforward—no residency needed, no special permits, and full ownership is allowed.
What It Really Costs
Rent if you’re still getting a feel for Batumi, aren’t sure how long you’ll stay, or want the freedom to move around easily. It’s the best option if you’re in Batumi short-term, trying out different neighbourhoods, or waiting for the right property deal to come along. Renting is low-commitment and perfect for flexibility.
Buy if you see yourself staying for the medium to long term, want to keep your housing costs stable, or are looking to stop spending on rent and start building equity in your own property. Instead of spending money on rent (which you never get back), when you buy, your monthly payments go toward owning something of value—your property. You also gain potential capital growth and the option to earn rental income if you travel or decide to lease it out. If the property rents for $450/month, it can help cover most of the ongoing cost.
The sweet spot?
Many expats first come to Batumi on holiday, then return for a few months because they’re drawn to the city’s safety, seaside lifestyle, and high quality of life. A 3-month stay often turns into 6–12 months, during which time they explore neighbourhoods, understand the market, and start looking seriously at buying.
Renting short-term gives expats the flexibility to settle in while keeping an eye out for the right property. Eventually, they take the step onto the property ladder. While the first purchase can feel daunting, it’s only because it’s unfamiliar. Once that first home is secured, the next steps become easier and more straightforward. Buying your second or third property often feels like second nature.
At Batumi Immo, we’re here to help you get started, guide you through every step of the process, and make sure your first purchase isn’t just possible—it’s smooth, secure, and rewarding. Whether it’s your first home or your next investment, we’re with you all the way. Check out our properties here.
📩 Get in Touch – Your Dream Property Awaits!
Looking for the perfect home or investment in Batumi? Whether you have questions about a listing, want to schedule a viewing, or need expert guidance, we’re here to help! Fill out the contact form, and our team will get back to you as soon as possible.
🔹 Quick responses & expert advice
🔹 Tailored property recommendations
🔹 Exclusive deals & investment insights
Start your journey today – let’s find your ideal property in Batumi!