What it's like to live and study in Montenegro: the experience of Ekaterina from Minsk

Client dossier

Client: Ekaterina from Minsk

Realtor: Red Feniks Montenegro

Region: Montenegro, Budva

Subject: Two-room apartment

Price: €65,000

Deal: December 2019

General information about Montenegro

Montenegro can be divided into three main regions: the north, the central part, and the coast. Among foreigners, the central area is particularly popular, especially the capital and the coastal cities.

Podgorica, which has become a center of business activity, attracts many people, making it quite appealing for living. However, other coastal cities also offer plenty of opportunities for comfortable living, including:

• medical institutions;
• educational institutions;
• entertainment venues.

Northern regions

The northern regions of the country are mainly inhabited by locals, and foreigners do not often choose these areas for permanent residence. This region is primarily of interest to tourists looking for winter resorts. Although the infrastructure here is less developed compared to the coast and Podgorica, everything necessary for living is available.

This area is characterized by tranquility and coziness, which can be especially appealing to those who appreciate nature and a quiet environment.

Choice of residence

Choosing a place for long-term living is always a personal decision and depends on individual preferences. In different corners of Montenegro, you can find comfortable living conditions. The country is relatively small, so getting to various regions is not difficult.

Personal experience: Budva

I decided to choose Budva myself — the main resort center of Montenegro, located in a picturesque part of the country. When selecting this city for living, I was guided by a number of important factors:

• proximity to the school for my daughter;
• the distance to the sea is five and fifteen minutes on foot, respectively;
• the presence of basic infrastructure, such as stores and transportation routes.

The educational system of Montenegro

In Montenegro, there are three main types of educational institutions for children:

• state schools with free education in Montenegrin language;
• Russian schools adapted to educational programs familiar to children from Russia and Belarus;
• international educational institutions with courses in English.

We decided that it would be best to prioritize the local school to help our daughter adapt to the new environment. The education system in Montenegro spans 13 years of study instead of the usual 11. Compulsory education includes nine grades, after which students can choose an advanced specialization for the next four years.

Enrollment in school

To enroll a child in free Montenegrin schools, a residence permit is required. Children receive it along with their parents, who can obtain a residence permit for various reasons. One of the most popular ways to obtain it isreal estate acquisitionHowever, although we became owners of an apartment, this option did not suit us, as holders of residence permits based on real estate cannot work in the country. Thus, important aspects of choosing to live in Montenegro become the process of adaptation and educational opportunities.

Moving to Montenegro

I received a residence permit in Montenegro thanks to my employment contract, as I work for a local company. It is important to emphasize that this country has a unique approach to children's education: there is no pressure, which is often felt in other countries. The initial years of education focus on psychological preparation, the formation of moral values, and a smooth adaptation to new conditions.

Educational system

Unlike the education system in Belarus, the primary curriculum is much easier and more understandable for children. Classes are conducted in a playful manner, allowing little ones to express their creative abilities through drawing and other forms of art.

As students progress to middle school, the educational plans become more balanced, and the level of knowledge among students starts to align with one another.

Languages of instruction

There is also an important difference – the language of instruction. In Montenegrin schools, classes are conducted in Montenegrin, and from the first grade, English is added to the curriculum. Starting from the fifth grade, each student must choose one additional language from a selection:

• German
• Italian
• French

Thus, by the end of school, the child is able to speak three languages fluently, which is a significant advantage.

Preparation for moving

In preparation for my move to Montenegro, I took language courses before my first visit to adapt more easily and communicate effectively with the locals, writing and speaking without mistakes. When I arrived, I immersed myself in the atmosphere of the Montenegrin language, almost completely avoiding communication in Russian. After a year, I reached a level where I felt confident in conversations.

Children's adaptation

Russian-speaking immigrants generally do not face serious problems due to the language barrier. Children, on the other hand, pick up conversational language even faster. My six-year-old daughter started attending an after-school program without knowing Montenegrin. Thanks to interacting with her peers and without any outside help, she reached a level within a year that allowed her to start first grade at the local school.

Her training was successful, and she had no difficulties communicating with either the teacher or her classmates.

Support in learning

An important aspect of her education is that I am fluent in Montenegrin and can always provide her with support or help with corrections if needed. It is also worth noting that Montenegrin belongs to the Slavic group, and many words in it are similar to Russian – the main difference lies in the stress on different syllables. Thus, the learning process becomes comfortable and accessible for both children and their parents.

Reading in Russian: buying property abroad without language barriers

Real estate in Montenegro: vital aspects.

Montenegro, despite its small size, boasts an active and diverse real estate market. Here, you can find both properties with historical heritage and modern buildings: houses, luxury villas, and apartments with picturesque views, as well as the latest residential complexes equipped with swimming pools. It is important to note that each area of this region is unique, and their characteristics should be taken into account when making a choice. Therefore, before starting your search for housing, it is essential to determine which specific area you want to live in.

Choosing residential real estate in Budva

We decided to choose the city of Budva. Considering our limited financial resources (within 63-65 thousand euros), we had a clear goal — to look for apartments with separate rooms. I wanted our child to have their own comfortable space. The selection turned out to be not as extensive as we would have liked, but nevertheless, we found a decent option — a compact apartment of 49 square meters with two small bedrooms and a living room. Although the building is already ten years old, the well-thought-out layouts provide a comfortable environment. Additionally, we have two balconies!

Problems finding housing within the specified price range

The request for apartments priced between 50,000 and 100,000 euros is quite common, and therefore, such properties quickly find their buyers. Finding cheaper options can be challenging, especially in coastal areas. However, it's worth considering that much depends on the type of housing. If a studio suits you, you can find quite decent options in modern complexes with quality finishes for a similar price.

Options for shopping in Montenegro

As of today, there are many apartment options in Montenegro in the price range of 50,000 to 100,000 euros. Let's take a look at some options:

• Apartment in KotorFor 93,610 euros, it has a total area of 31 square meters and offers the possibility of obtaining a residence permit upon purchase. This residential complex is located in the Shkalari area and consists of five buildings with a seismic-resistant monolithic structure, ensuring safety and reliability. The complex offers 37 apartments ranging from 31 to 232 square meters, providing various layouts to choose from.
• Apartment in Herceg NoviFor 80,000 euros. This is a fully furnished cozy property with an area of 33 square meters, located on the high first floor of a residential complex with a large territory and a swimming pool. Just a 15-minute walk to the sea, making this offer attractive for both vacationing and renting out.
• Apartment in BaošićiIt is offered for 85,000 euros. It has an area of 50 square meters and is located on the first floor, just 30 meters from the sea. It is already furnished, which helps avoid additional costs for setting up the home. For 75,000 euros, you can find quite good options in this beautiful region.

Conclusion

Thus, the opportunities for acquiring real estate in Montenegro are quite impressive. Approach your selection with an awareness of all the nuances and remember that this is an important decision, so it's worth carefully considering each of your actions to avoid future regrets about your choice.

Overview of apartments in Montenegro

In Montenegro, there is a wide selection of apartments, each offering unique opportunities for both living and investment. Let's take a closer look at the various options available in the local real estate market.

Apartment in Pržno

The first property is located in picturesque Pržno, with a total area of 50 square meters. This new apartment includes one bedroom and an open-plan living area with a kitchen, as well as a bathroom fully equipped with necessary plumbing. The apartment is on the second floor, the building has an elevator, and the apartment provides access to two terraces made of high-quality materials. The sandy beach is just 400 meters away, and the famous Miločer Park is 750 meters away. The asking price for this apartment is96,000 euros.

Apartment in Krimovice

The next interesting property is located in Krimovice. It is a 63 square meter apartment on the ground floor, which includes a spacious terrace surrounded by grapevines and a cozy outdoor relaxation area. This is the perfect option for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city, as Trsteno beach is nearby.1.6 kilometers...and it's only to Budva.8 kilometersThe price for the property is92,000 euros.

Apartment in Uteha

The third apartment is located in Uteha on the aristocratic waterfront. The area of this property is36 square metersand includes one bedroom with a stunning view of the Adriatic Sea. The beach itself is located in300 metersfrom the apartments. This apartment is offered for72,000 euroswhich makes it a very attractive option in the market.

Studio in Dobry Vody

In Dobrye Vody, there is also a studio available with a sea view. The area is33 square metersIt is located on the first floor of a new building. The spacious terrace offers a stunning view of the coastline. Inside, there is underfloor heating, and the beach is just a short walk away.650 metersThe presence of a supermarket near the house and parking spaces makes this apartment even more attractive for living and relaxation. The price is64,000 euros.

Spacious apartment in Dobry Vody

Another option in Dobrye Vody is a spacious apartment that is currently in the final stages of construction. The area is61 square metersand includes one bedroom, a cozy living room with a kitchen, a bathroom, and a terrace. You can reach the Great Sand Beach on foot in15 minutesThe windows face southwest, which provides good lighting.

Prices for apartments in Montenegro

Depending on the location and floor of the apartment, the price of flats can vary significantly. For example, the company Tradegoria Global Estate offers apartments for sale in Tivat, Montenegro, at a price of97,200 €These apartments have an area27 square metersand include one bedroom and a bathroom.

By acquiring this property, the new owners gain the opportunity to apply for residency, as well as take advantage of online viewings and remote transactions. The complex where these apartments are located is distinguished by a high level of quality and comfort, providing first-class conditions for a comfortable life.

The architectural design of the building has been developed so that each room offers a magnificent sea view. This residential complex has only12 apartments.

Apartments in Zelenika

The company DOO "Monteonline" has put apartments in Zelenika on the market at a price90,000 €The area of this apartment is68 square metersand is located on the second floor of a small residential building.

The interior layout includes:

• corridor
• a bright living room with a kitchen nook
• two bedrooms
• bathroom
• two terraces

The apartment features high ceilings and spacious rooms. It comes furnished and with the necessary appliances. Although it is only a short distance to the sea and shops.10 minutes on footThis property is an excellent option for both permanent residence and rental.

Apartment in Baošići

Antarex is selling an apartment in Baošići, Montenegro, for99,500 €The area of this apartment is64 square metersand includes:

• two bedrooms
• bathroom
• terrace
• a spacious kitchen and living room

It is located in the Herceg Novi area and is being sold with completely legal documents. The apartment comes with a new renovation, and there is a floor heating system in every room.

Apartments in Sutomore

In Sutomore, Montenegro, you can purchase an apartment in the price range starting from61,758 to 203,106 eurosin the new SPA&Wellness complex. The area of the offered properties ranges from26 to 64 m²and includes options with one or two bedrooms.

The new residential project is located in a picturesque area, and the number of available options includes a variety of properties with attractive conditions.

Apartment for sale in Budva

Buona Realty offers an apartment for sale in Budva at a price95,000 €The area of this apartment is42 m²and includes one bedroom and a bathroom.

The property is available for online viewings and remote transactions, and payment is accepted in both rubles and cryptocurrency. This apartment is positioned as liquid and is perfect for rental on the coast of Montenegro.

Apartment in Herceg Novi

Culture Real Estate presents an apartment in Herceg Novi to the market, priced at98,000 €The area of the housing is34 square meters, including one bedroom.

The apartment is located on the second floor of a five-story building and is just a two-minute walk from the sea, with all the necessary infrastructure around. The property is offered with a balcony and parking, and it also has a shared fenced area, making it attractive to potential buyers interested in purchasing real estate in Montenegro.

Thermal insulation and the real estate market in Montenegro

Double-glazed windows made from aluminum profiles with thermal breaks can provide a high level of thermal insulation for rooms. Currently, the real estate market in Montenegro offers attractive options, such as apartments in Bečići, available for 95,000 euros. These spacious apartments have a total area of 42 square meters and can be an excellent investment option, allowing owners to obtain residency.

The option of a virtual tour and remote transaction helps to save a significant amount of time, and payment can be made in both rubles and cryptocurrency.

Description of the apartments

Each apartment is equipped with everything necessary for a comfortable life:

• kitchen combined with the living room;
• one bedroom;
• bathroom;
• glazed terrace.

The interior finish is made from high-quality materials and includes modern furniture and appliances. To ensure comfort, there is a split system and a boiler, as well as a dedicated parking space attached to the apartment. The residential complex is located in an area with a well-developed infrastructure: supermarkets and other retail outlets are just a five-minute walk away. The nearest airport is Tivat, which makes this offer even more attractive to potential buyers.

Other options for purchase

Another interesting option is an apartment in Bečići, offered for 96,000 euros. It has an area of 47 square meters and is located on the sixth floor of a building with an elevator. The distance to the sea is only 250 meters, making this property particularly attractive. A key advantage of this apartment is the spacious glazed terrace, which offers a stunning view of the sea, the surrounding mountains, and the city itself. All the floor tiles were selected according to the design project and delivered directly to the site.

Real Estate Montenegro also offers a studio in Budva for the price of 86,000 euros. It is currently under construction and is scheduled to be completed by July 2024. The total area of the studio is 31 square meters, and it is located on the third floor. It includes an entrance hall, a bathroom, a kitchen area, and a living space with a terrace that offers a sea view.

In addition, there is a cozy studio in Budva priced at 95,000 euros and covering an area of 35 square meters. It features a spacious terrace, making it particularly appealing for comfortable living. The interior space includes:

• modern kitchen;
• bathroom;
• a comfortable living area.

The area is convenient for living, as the small elevation changes create comfortable conditions, especially for families with children.

Tracking customer experience

It's important to consider the buyers' experience when making a deal. Personal visits to inspect the real estate market help to better understand prices and the availability of properties. In the narrow streets of the old town, it's enough to have your passport and funds with you.

Real estate agencies take care of all stages of the operation — from collecting and verifying documents to handing over the keys after the payment is completed. However, keep in mind that obtaining a mortgage in Montenegro for foreigners comes with certain challenges, and other types of loans are also unavailable to most applicants. Therefore, it is advisable to plan your financial capabilities in advance and thoroughly study the real estate market to make the right choice.

Buying real estate in Montenegro

If you are facing financial difficulties when purchasing real estate, it might be worth considering buying an apartment in new developments. Some developers may offer you installment plans, but each deal requires an individual approach and depends on the terms you can negotiate. While it is possible to try to buy an apartment without the help of agencies, I would not recommend taking risks in this matter.

In Montenegro, known for its resort lifestyle, many locals, including taxi drivers and café workers, are involved in offering real estate. It's not wise to rely on their words, as there are many unfortunate cases.

The role of real estate agencies

Real estate agencies are organized in such a way that they receive a commission solely from sellers, which relieves buyers of additional costs and ensures them a high level of service and confidence in the correctness of the transaction. All documents undergo thorough verification, and the purchasing process is accompanied by professional specialists at every stage.

• Notarization- As of today, notarization is mandatory for purchasing real estate in Montenegro. This is also done through an agent.
• Risk of fraud- Even with knowledge of the language, I wouldn't dare to finalize a deal without the support of professionals. There is a serious risk of becoming a victim of fraud.
• Reputation of agencies- Agencies strive to maintain their reputation and guarantee the quality execution of all necessary formalities.

Family's personal experience

Our family bought an apartment right before the pandemic started, at the end of 2019, and we moved in on March 12, 2020. But just a few days later, on March 16, a strict quarantine was imposed in the country!

I would like to share my family's experience of buying an apartment in Montenegro, but we couldn't visit it due to the restrictions caused by COVID-19. The lockdown in Montenegro was strict, just like in the rest of Europe. The airport was closed, and even movement between cities was prohibited! Moreover, on certain days, a curfew was imposed starting at six in the evening. These rules remained in place even after the restrictions began to ease.

Education in the context of the pandemic

The children, of course, did not attend school, and the school year only started on October 1st. Education was conducted in a format of "two weeks of study, one month at home" – a similar scheme was in place throughout the entire year.

In the new school year, schools plan to open their doors on September 1, but certain restrictions will also be introduced. Classes will be shortened to half an hour, and students will be divided into small groups. Wearing masks will be mandatory for everyone.

Nevertheless, you have to agree that this is still better than another year of distance learning.

Mindset and relationships with the locals

When it comes to mentality, there are indeed differences between us and the locals. However, when compared to Western Europe, it's worth noting that Russian speakers are generally viewed quite positively in the Balkans. The locals show friendliness and openness. Personally, during all the time I've spent here, I haven't encountered any negative attitudes or bias.

Community and adaptation

In Montenegro, especially in the coastal cities, we feel a sense of tranquility thanks to the significant Russian-speaking diaspora that creates a cozy community for living. Together with the locals, we continue to adapt in this wonderful country, enjoying its unique charm and atmosphere.

Conclusion

In conclusion, I want to emphasize that Montenegro has become not just a new place to live for me, but a true home. This Balkan gem surprises with its unique culture, rich history, and stunning natural landscapes. Every corner of this small yet incredible country has its own characteristics, and despite its compact size, life here is enriched with a multitude of experiences and opportunities.

The decision to buy an apartment in Budva turned out to be a great one: I am enjoying the wonderful weather, and the sea and mountains surround me with their beauty. For my daughter, attending the local school has been a significant step towards integrating into a new culture. The education system in Montenegro pleasantly surprised me with its flexibility — where the focus is on the psychological well-being of children and their overall development. It was the right decision, as it allowed her not only to learn but also to fit into the local community, make new friends, and overcome the language barrier through communication with her peers.

My first steps in learning the Montenegrin language were not easy, but thanks to the strong support of the local community and a little effort on my part, I quickly adapted and learned to speak this beautiful language. This investment of time was worth it. Now I feel confidently part of this community and can help my daughter with her studies if needed.

Despite all the challenges I faced in the beginning, I always found joy and support in my surroundings. I am absolutely convinced that moving to Montenegro was one of the best decisions of our lives. This country not only offers great opportunities for work and education but also provides truly unforgettable moments, filling each day with joy and meaning.

Why should you consider moving to Montenegro?

• Unique cultureMontenegro offers a rich heritage and a variety of cultural traditions.
• Beautiful natureThe opportunity to enjoy the sea and mountains in one place.
• Flexible educational systemSupport for children's development and a focus on their emotional well-being.
• Not bad professional opportunitiesA friendly job market in Podgorica and other parts of the country.
• Friendly localsA smooth adaptation process and the opportunity to make new acquaintances.

Thus, I urge everyone who is considering moving or looking for a new place to live to pay attention to Montenegro: it is a corner with a soul that can truly surprise even the most demanding. I hope my story inspires others to take similar steps and helps people find their path to happiness in a new place.