The dream of suburban living is becoming a reality for many Ukrainians. But what exactly are potential buyers looking for in a cottage community? To gain a deeper understanding of their expectations and needs, we conducted a study among residents of Kyiv and its suburbs.
Our research utilized a mixed-method approach, combining online surveys with face-to-face interviews. The online questionnaires were distributed via social media, particularly Facebook, targeting an audience interested in suburban housing. Meanwhile, face-to-face interviews provided deeper insights into buyers’ needs, motivations, and expectations, adding qualitative context to the quantitative data.
This approach allowed us to develop a comprehensive understanding of customer preferences, forming a solid foundation for recommendations on designing the ideal cottage community.
Our research utilized a mixed-method approach, combining online surveys with face-to-face interviews. The online questionnaires were distributed via social media, particularly Facebook, targeting an audience interested in suburban housing. Meanwhile, face-to-face interviews provided deeper insights into buyers’ needs, motivations, and expectations, adding qualitative context to the quantitative data.
This approach allowed us to develop a comprehensive understanding of customer preferences, forming a solid foundation for recommendations on designing the ideal cottage community.
Who Is Ready to Buy a Cottage in the Suburbs of Kyiv?
Nearly half of the respondents (44%) are between the ages of 35 and 44—an active and financially stable group seeking a balance between career and family comfort. Another 41% are adults aged 45-54, looking for a peaceful place to live. Only 11% of young people aged 24-34 are considering a move to a suburban home.
Interestingly, the majority of potential buyers are families with children (59%), while 22% are looking for a countryside home just for themselves.
The main reason for purchasing?
For 37% of respondents, the goal is a permanent residence, while 15% see it as an investment opportunity.
Financial Capabilities and Constraints
The primary demand is concentrated in the economy and comfort-class segments. The price range reveals some interesting trends:
- The largest group of buyers (44.4%) is considering homes priced up to $60,000.
- Demand significantly decreases in higher price ranges, with only 3.7% of respondents looking at homes between $80,000 and $100,000.
- However, in the upper segment, there is a notable share of financially capable buyers: 14.8% are willing to spend between $150,000 and $200,000.
Buyers in the lower segment prioritize basic comfort, while those in the upper segment seek expanded amenities and customized options.
Additional Key Factors
- Installment plans of 24-36 months are considered optimal by 40% of respondents, primarily in the economy and comfort-class segments.
- A 3-5% discount for full payment is an attractive incentive for more financially capable buyers.
What Type of Homes Are Buyers Choosing?
Single-story houses have become a rising trend, with 59.3% of respondents preferring this option. Two-story homes, while gradually losing popularity, still make up a significant segment (37%). Demand for three-story cottages has nearly disappeared.
The demand for house sizes has also shifted:
- A new segment has emerged, with 29.6% of buyers interested in small homes up to 75 m².
- The majority of demand (51.8%) is for homes ranging from 76-125 m².
Buyers also demonstrate a high level of awareness regarding construction technologies:
- Monolithic-frame houses – 37%
- Brick or ceramic block houses – 33%
- Wooden frame houses – 19%
Land Plot Preferences
- 37% of buyers consider plots up to 3 sotkas (300 m²) ideal, as they allow for a cozy outdoor space while minimizing maintenance. This trend reflects a shift away from large traditional countryside plots toward more manageable properties that retain urban convenience.
Interestingly, there are two opposing trends in terms of proximity to Kyiv:
- Some buyers prefer the closest suburbs to maintain access to urban infrastructure and reduce commute times.
- Others choose plots 20-30 km from the city, prioritizing cleaner nature, better ecology, and a sense of retreat from urban noise.
A crucial factor in choosing a home is the ability to customize the outdoor area. Buyers most frequently consider the following features:
However, these features are often delayed due to budget limitations, as their implementation requires significant financial investment.
- Terrace and barbecue area – essential elements for a comfortable outdoor experience, valued by most buyers.
- Sauna or swimming pool – attractive additions that enhance appeal but are often postponed due to cost.
- Landscaping and gazebo – create a cozy and functional space, adding to the property's charm.
However, these features are often delayed due to budget limitations, as their implementation requires significant financial investment.
What Else Matters When Buying a Home?
An open-ended question allowed respondents to freely express their thoughts, providing an unbiased insight into their priorities. Three key factors emerged:
- Neighbors – Many buyers emphasized the importance of the surrounding community, as overall comfort depends not just on the house but also on the neighborhood.
- Construction quality – The use of high-quality materials and skilled workmanship is a top priority for most buyers.
- Security – Feeling safe is one of the primary criteria when selecting a cottage.
Beyond Just Housing: A Holistic Approach to Suburban Living
Suburban life is about more than just houses—it’s about comfort, infrastructure, and opportunities for growth. Our research provides valuable insights into clients' needs, financial capabilities, lifestyles, and priorities. These findings enable us to strategically plan the concept of the cottage community, offering the most relevant housing types, infrastructure, and additional features.
The needs and preferences study, conducted by Enhance Development as part of the pre-design phase for a new suburban cottage community near Kyiv, has given us a deeper understanding of modern housing requirements. Our approach is driven by the ambition to transform each cottage into not just a house, but a true home, thoughtfully designed for comfortable and fulfilling living.
Source: founder.ua
