What is premium-class housing: features, price

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In the category of luxury real estate, there is an invisible but rigid hierarchy. What is premium-class housing is not a label, but a standard at the intersection of architecture, engineering, and market logic. This format has long gone beyond the showcases of real estate terms. It is not confused with elite class and not equated with business class. It lives by its own rules.

What is premium-class housing: classification of high-budget real estate

All luxury real estate is distributed according to architectural, engineering, legal, and consumer characteristics. Understanding what premium-class housing is helps to compare it with neighboring categories.

The difference between business and premium housing is manifested in the approach to details. If the business format is limited to enhanced sound insulation, transport accessibility, and basic architectural aesthetics, then the premium class shapes the concept of a life scenario with an emphasis on silence, privacy, and status.

Premium class vs elite class is not a struggle for price, but a division in essence. Elite housing is a point development in locations with historical context (Prechistenka, Kamenny Island, Maritime Facade). Premium is oriented towards modern architecture, functionality, and scale. Here, they do not collect apartments with views – here, they live in comfort.

Architecture and engineering: the face of the standard

The architectural appearance of a premium house is always a choice in favor of an author’s project. Architects shape the building’s appearance for a specific region and climate. Examples include residential complexes Level Prichalny (Moscow), ART Residential Complex (St. Petersburg), where the architecture is based on modern glass facades, panoramic glazing, and terraces.

What is premium-class housing is monolithic buildings from a trusted developer, designing not just a box, but a large-scale object with elaborate engineering: a “smart home” system, supply and exhaust ventilation, individual thermal points, water and air purification.

The area of such apartments is from 80 m². For apartments – from 50 m², but only with high ceilings (3+ meters), isolated bedrooms, and panoramic views.

Location: not nearby, but within infrastructure

The key criterion is location. Premium housing is not built in “developing areas” with potential, but integrated into established neighborhoods with rich infrastructure: kindergartens, private schools, gastronomy, fitness, theaters, museums, private clinics.

For example, the Neva Towers Residential Complex (Moscow City): within an 800-meter radius includes three business centers, two shopping malls, three premium restaurants, schools, and the metro.

Finishing as an argument: not just with marble

The market no longer considers natural stone and engineered wood as a marker of quality. Today, finishing is not about expensive materials, but about reasonable solutions.

It is important not only the renovation itself but also its logic. The right premium always offers a choice: white box, finished finishing, or designer solutions with ready-made furniture and appliances.
Developers collaborate with agencies like D&K, iRooms, Design Solutions. Examples: the Dom na Mosfilmovskoy Residential Complex and Presnya City, where finishing according to an author’s design project is included in the price and completed before handing over the keys.

Infrastructure: not an addition, but a core

Service and internal infrastructure have long ceased to be bonuses and become a standard. The absence of security, stroller rooms, or a fitness room deprives a project of premium status.

The complex must include:

children’s rooms and private courtyards;
bike parking and workshops;
coworking areas and meeting rooms;
cleaning service and security system;
video surveillance, reception, lounge.

The developer of a premium property always uses a project with an elevated standard of improvement and does not skimp on public spaces. Every detail is important here: benches from domestic manufacturers, tiles that do not slip even in November, parking lighting without flickering.

Parking and security: a zone without compromises

Parking in premium housing is not just parking spaces, but part of the security and status system. A minimum of 1.5 spaces per apartment, automatic gates, access by recognition, a lift to the floor of the apartment, ventilation, and charging stations for electric cars.

Modern premium-class projects (for example, Residences Skolkovo or City Bay) offer mechanized parking, automatic car washes, video surveillance. Security ensures protection not only of the perimeter but also of internal premises, including floors and elevator areas.

Premium housing buyer: motivation and logic

The buyer of this segment acts rationally. The main criterion is not the area but the level of standard. Among the motivations are quality of life, capital protection, risk minimization in resale.

Properties in this segment are often purchased for long-term living, not for investment. The average rental rate is 4-5% per annum, payback period is from 20 years. It is not a speculative but a valuable product. For the buyer, it is predictability, service, independence from market fluctuations.

Difference between “premium” and “elite” housing: where is the line

There is no clear formal boundary, but the difference is obvious. Elite housing is limited by uniqueness – historical buildings, restoration, a limited number of apartments (up to 30 in a building), a closed club format.

Premium chooses scale: projects with 100-300 apartments with the same level of quality but without museum status. Here, economic laws operate: demand grows depending on prices for business class, not on the historical value of the building.

Pricing and cost assessment

Price is influenced not only by area or region. It is important how accurately the project corresponds to the classification of luxury housing: location, engineering, finishing, security, parking, service.

If an object is declared as premium but does not provide a closed territory, does not provide its own infrastructure, and does not confirm the developer’s status – the price loses justification.

The market reacts quickly. It is enough for one project out of 10 to be below expectations for the entire reputation of the class to be shaken. Therefore, the assessment of an object always goes through a combination of parameters. Not by words, but by numbers.

Project and implementation: compliance check

The project of a premium house does not go through inspiration but through meticulous calculation. Architects analyze traffic, noise levels, wind direction, insolation, and the density of surrounding development.
The developer approves the project taking into account not only future profit but also future market demands in 5-10 years. Therefore, what premium-class housing is primarily about is the precision of design.

If engineering solutions do not include a ventilation system with heat recovery, access automation, sound insulation above standards – the object does not fall into the category. Simplifications are not allowed. Every element – from the elevator hall to pedestrian navigation – must meet the audience’s expectations.

What is premium-class housing: characteristics

What is premium-class housing is not a rhetorical question but measurable by specific parameters. The segment sets a high bar for each element: from architecture to legal transparency.

The main characteristics of premium-class housing:

Architecture – individual projects with non-standard facade geometry.
Region – top locations with high accessibility index and minimal noise level.
Developer – developers with a portfolio of no less than 5 premium properties in the last 10 years.
Infrastructure – closed territory with security, concierge service, fitness, lounge areas.
Area – from 80 m² with ceilings from 3 m, layouts without load-bearing walls inside apartments.
Finishing – designer renovation or white box with all engineering systems in place.
Parking – underground, heated, with a lift to the apartment floor.
Documentation – registered property rights, transaction transparency, land history.
Price – from $4,500/m² in regions, from $7,500/m² in Moscow, from $7,000/m² in Dubai.

Each of the listed parameters influences the perception of the object’s level and builds trust in the project even at the selection stage. It is the combination of these characteristics that determines what premium-class housing is in real, not nominal terms.

What is premium-class housing: conclusions

What is premium-class housing is not just square meters and panoramic facades but a system of solutions where every detail works for comfort. Here, they value not the render but the engineering foundation, infrastructure, and perspective. The price is justified only when the developer confirms the declared level with quality, not promises.

The best cities in Greece to live in: where to buy property

Greece is a country with thousands of years of history, an azure sea and an incredible variety of regions. From bustling Athens to the tranquil islands, every corner of the country has its own rhythm, climate and opportunities, including prices. Choosing the right location to live in such an environment is not an easy task. Our article is designed to help you in this difficult endeavour. We will tell you about the best cities in Greece to live in.

Athens and Attica: the pulse of the country

Attica concentrated finance, culture, international schools and major medical centres. Athens is not just the capital, but the centre of gravity of Greek land. Here, Greek property provides liquidity and the market is steadily rising: over the past three years, prices have increased by an average of 12-17% by district.

The centre – Plaka, Kolonaki, Metz – offers housing at €2,500-4,000 per m². Dormitory neighbourhoods – Perama, Ilioupoli – start at €1,500. Attica remains attractive for relocation due to its mild climate, access to the sea, metro and stable social environment.

A key feature is direct air links to Europe, the USA and Asia. This makes Athens an entry point into the country and a comfortable base for obtaining a residence permit in Greece through investment.

Thessaloniki: a northern vector of opportunity

Thessaloniki is the second metropolis of the country and the centre of the Macedonia region. It is listed as one of the “best cities in Greece to live in” due to its combination of cultural heritage, university environment and low prices. The average cost is around €1,800 per m², with rents yielding stable returns of up to 5.6% per annum.

The city is aimed at active young people and those seeking a balance between the metropolis and a measured life. Transport is developed by the new metro, the coastline overlooks Termaikos, and the evening promenade turns working days into an easy holiday resort. Thessaloniki is actively developing IT and tourism – creating jobs and demand for accommodation.

Islands as a lifestyle: from Corfu to Santorini

The island part of the country offers not just climate and scenery, but a special rhythm – measured, aesthetic and investment-conscious. Here property is not only a roof over your head, but also an asset with predictable returns. Each island forms its own image: from green cosiness to elite status.

Corfu

The green island in the Ionian Sea is on the list of “Greece’s best cities to live in”. A combination of nature, British architecture and high rental demand. Prices start from €1,700 per m² and rental yields of 9-11% in high season.

Crete

The largest island in the country with developed infrastructure, international schools and clinics. Heraklion and Chania, the two main cities, are actively developing new residential projects. Crete utilises a combination of climate, transport accessibility and a strong economy. Property in Crete in Greece remains one of the most sought after.

Rhodes

Europe’s sunny island is a stable investment. The cost of housing grows by 8-10% annually. The east coast remains the leader in the number of transactions. The combination of ancient architecture, developed tourism and proximity to Turkey makes Rhodes strategically attractive for buying a home.

Santorini

Unique geology, whitewashed buildings, volcanic landscapes. Santorini doesn’t fall into the “affordable housing” category, but it’s firmly on the list of the country’s best cities to live in. For those looking for status, not just a view. Prices start from €4,000 per m², but the liquidity of the object is maintained even in the crisis.

Beaches and infrastructure: where to live in Greece

The choice of region determines not only everyday life, but also access to key services. Below is the only list in the article with selection criteria:

Five factors that determine the best cities to live in:

Climate – 300 days of sunshine a year on Crete, minimal humidity on Rhodes, cool breezes on Corfu.
Sea and beaches – Halkidiki holds the lead with 92 Blue Flag beaches.
Infrastructure – Athens and Thessaloniki lead the way in the number of medical centres and English language schools.
Property prices range from €1,200 to €4,500 per m² depending on location and type of accommodation.
Residence permits – available for purchases from €250,000, programmes have been running steadily since 2014.

Halkidiki: synergy of nature and comfort

Halkidiki unites three peninsulas – Kassandra, Sithonia and Athos. The first is a tourist centre, the second is a secluded green paradise, the third is a monastic autonomy with restrictions. The best towns to live in this region are Nea Mudanya, Pefkohori, Nikiti. Housing prices start from €1,400 per m². This makes buying affordable for private investors and families planning to relocate.

The region takes advantage of picturesque bays, coniferous forests and crystal clear sea. Villas with panoramic windows, apartments by the sea and houses with swimming pools are being built here. The area is popular with families due to its quietness, safety and proximity to Thessaloniki – 1.5 hours by car.

Where to buy property in Greece without overpaying

When choosing a destination, it is important not to overpay for a brand, but to calculate profitability and potential. Greece’s regions for living are not just the coasts. Epirus and Thessaly offer houses among the mountains and lakes with prices starting from €900 per m². In the Peloponnese builders are creating settlements with autonomous infrastructure – schools, shops, kindergartens.

Where is the best place to live in Greece is a question of balance. Patras is a ferry hub with a university atmosphere. Volos – a city with direct flights to Europe. Trikala – a leader in the digital environment and the country’s “smart city”. These locations rarely appear in tourist brochures, but are on the list of the best cities to live in for those who value tranquillity and autonomy.

Moving and calculating: the best cities in Greece to live in

The minimum budget for obtaining a residence permit in Greece through the purchase of property is €250,000. For this amount you can buy an apartment in Thessaloniki, a townhouse in Attica or a house in Corfu. Transaction costs are on average 7-10% of the value (taxes, notary, lawyer, registration).

Property prices in Greece are growing moderately. Over the past 12 months, the average increase according to the Bank of the country was 10.3%. The main growth is observed in Athens, Chania and Rhodes. Against this background, the market remains stable, especially in the context of European inflation.

For long-term residence, not only the budget is important, but also the structure of demand. If there are tenants, property yields 3.5-7% per annum. Demand is growing for housing with autonomous heating, terraces and solar panels – such options pay off faster.

The best cities in Greece to live in: conclusions

Buying property here is not just an investment, but a choice of everyday style. Greece’s best cities to live in offer comfort, growth potential and stability. Athens gives rhythm, Thessaloniki gives balance, Halkidiki gives tranquillity, Crete gives autonomy and Santorini gives prestige. The country is open to those who want to invest, relocate or obtain a residence permit. Proper selection of the region and analysing the infrastructure make the purchase a strategic step rather than a risk.

August 24, 2025

How to open a business in Cyprus for a foreigner: registration, taxes, and benefits

The growing interest in business emigration to the countries of the Mediterranean region has naturally led to increased attention to the question of how to open a business in Cyprus for a foreigner. The region remains popular due to favorable tax policies, simplified registration procedures, and a stable economic system.

Entrepreneurs from European, Asian, and CIS countries, including Russians, actively consider Cypriot jurisdiction as a platform for scaling their businesses, highly appreciating the transparency of regulation, a stable legal environment, and a flexible approach to foreign capital.

How to Open a Business in Cyprus: Step-by-Step Guide for Foreigners

Establishing a company starts with choosing the legal form. The most popular option is a private limited liability company (Ltd), which is suitable for both domestic operations and international business.

For those interested in how to open a business in Cyprus for a foreigner, it is important to understand the key stages of the procedure:

choosing a name and reserving it in the registry;
preparing the articles of association and legal address;
submitting an application to the Registration Department;
appointing directors, a secretary, and shareholders;
opening an account in a Cypriot bank;
registration with the tax authorities.

By following all formalities, the company registration process proceeds without delays and does not require the physical presence of the founder.

Business Geography: Limassol, Larnaca, Paphos, Nicosia

The choice of city depends on the project’s goals. Limassol is a financial center with high traffic of international companies. Larnaca offers affordable office spaces and convenient logistics due to its proximity to the airport. Paphos is focused on the tourism sector and seasonal services, while Nicosia concentrates on administrative functions and government contracts. Understanding these differences is especially important for those considering how to open a business in Cyprus for a foreigner, as the smart choice of location directly impacts the format and dynamics of the company’s development.

Advantages of Doing Business in Cyprus: Arguments in Favor of the Jurisdiction

The island is attractive to international entrepreneurs due to a combination of benefits. Below are the main reasons why foreigners choose the jurisdiction:

the corporate tax rate is 12.5% — one of the lowest in the European Union;
there is no tax on dividends;
over 60 double taxation avoidance agreements are in place;
English is used in business dealings, and the legal system is based on British law;
citizenship can be obtained through investment programs;
compliance is simplified, and remote bank account opening is available.

Understanding how to open a business in Cyprus allows foreigners to effectively utilize the jurisdiction’s tax and administrative opportunities, as well as ensure a stable presence in the European market.

Taxes and Incentives: What You Need to Know?

Cyprus’ financial system provides a favorable climate for development. Tax incentives for companies in Cyprus include not only a low corporate tax rate but also opportunities for tax optimization through holding structures. An important advantage is the exemption from capital gains tax on the sale of assets abroad.

Additional support measures are also in place — no tax on dividends (under certain conditions), exemption from income tax on intellectual property revenues, and special tax regimes for startups and innovative companies.

This system makes investments in Cypriot jurisdiction advantageous even compared to other European countries. That’s why more and more entrepreneurs are interested in how to open a business in Cyprus for a foreigner, aiming to benefit from favorable taxation, flexible regulatory conditions, and simplified registration procedures.

Pitfalls: What to Prepare For?

Despite the obvious advantages, there are certain pitfalls associated with conducting business abroad. The main challenges are related to banking compliance policies, beneficiary disclosure requirements, and the need for annual reporting. Below are typical difficulties faced by foreigners:

delays in opening corporate accounts;
high level of control over financial transactions;
limited access to government tenders;
requirement to appoint a licensed secretary;
annual expenses for audits and document maintenance.

Understanding and considering these factors help minimize risks when launching a project.

Company Registration in Cyprus and Obligations

After obtaining the registration number and being listed in the register of legal entities, the company is required to maintain accounting records, submit reports, and comply with economic presence requirements.

This includes renting an office, contracting with a local service provider, registering with the social insurance system, timely tax payments and declarations, as well as keeping meeting minutes and corporate documentation.

Adhering to all regulations allows officially confirming tax residency status and avoiding claims from regulatory authorities. This is especially important when choosing how to open a business in Cyprus for a foreigner to ensure transparent operations and legal security for the company.

Business Formats: What’s in Demand in 2025?

Companies in the IT, real estate, consulting, trade, and export sectors are in high demand. Cyprus attracts startups as well as multinational holdings looking to optimize taxation and reduce operational costs.

Popular business models on the island include holding structures, agency representations, IT platforms, consulting and legal firms, as well as projects focused on tourism and real estate markets. Each direction requires compliance with specific conditions: having a license, a certain number of employees, and a minimum share capital as stipulated by local legislation.

How to Open a Business in Cyprus for a Foreigner: Key Points

A comprehensive understanding of how to open a business in Cyprus for a foreigner allows for building an efficient model of corporate presence in the EU with minimal fiscal and legal costs. Simple company registration, available incentives, a stable legal environment, and flexible tax policies make the jurisdiction attractive for investors, freelancers, and corporate structures. With the right strategy and professional support, business becomes a sustainable tool for international activities.

August 24, 2025