DTZ Echinox reports solid growth in luxury residential lease deals

Rental transactions have registered a 100 per cent growth versus the same interval of 2011. The beneficiaries of such residences are ambassadors, high-ranking diplomats, banks and multinational companies presidents and vice-presidents. They have opted for the three - four bedroom penthouses, located in the north of the capital. Budgets for renting such exclusive properties start at 4,000 euros per month and can reach up to 10,000 to 12,000 Euro for apartments and penthouses and up to 20,000 Euro for villas.
Embassies, banks and large multinational companies are most active clients on the luxury residential rental niche. With embassies, the tender and selection process is the longest and most formalized, sometimes lasting for almost two years.
"For the relocation of an ambassador, I worked for a year and eight months. The residence had been located in a villa for over 30 years and the relocation to a penthouse required prolongued discussions, numerous official commissions, changes to the security aspects and to the technical specifications. The penthouse they have eventually chosen has 450 sqm surface and 400 sqm of terraces," said Raluca Plavita, Senior Residential Consultant, DTZ Echinox
For other diplomats and expatriates, budgets for residences are between 3,000 and 6,000 Euro. They usually target two - three bedrooms, unfurnished apartments. The offer is encountered most often in areas such Dorobanţi Kiseleff, Herastrau, Nordului.
Bucharest residential market currently offers a relatively limited number of top residences –exceptional location, large surfaces, exquisite finishes and numerous facilities - especially when it comes to villas. "We have noticed a recent trend among high-ranking diplomats, namely the shift from classic villas to modern penthouses which provide more comfort, ample space, flexible interior partitioning and even more generous terraces and "rooftop" gardens. We have recently brokered such relocations for two ambassadors," added Raluca Plavita.
DTZ Echinox provided relocation and renegotiation services, consultancy and property management on the luxury residential segment for the British Embassy, Israel Embassy, the US Embassy Sudan Embassy, Tunisian Embassy, Embassy of Germany, Qatar, Kuwait, Jordan, the United Arab Emirates etc. The residential department portfolio also comprises major banks and multinational companies.