Lake Tisza region emerges as a budget-friendly alternative for property buyers in Hungary
As property prices continue to soar in Hungary’s most popular holiday areas, prospective buyers are increasingly turning their attention to lesser-known yet promising regions—particularly around Lake Tisza. According to experts at OTP Ingatlanpont, the area is becoming a competitive alternative to more established destinations like Lake Balaton and Lake Velence, offering significantly better value for money.
Balaton and Velence are oversaturated and overpriced
While traditional hotspots such as Balaton remain attractive, the market there has become oversaturated and overpriced. According to mfor.hu, on Balaton’s northern shore, prices range between HUF 600,000 and 1.5 million (EUR 1,500 to 3,720) per square metre. Even with the potential for 10-20% negotiation depending on property condition, affordable options are becoming scarce.
Similarly, around Lake Velence, property prices start at HUF 650,000 (EUR 1,615) per square metre, with new constructions exceeding HUF 1.1 million (EUR 2,730). With limited room for negotiation, buyers face stiff competition for a shrinking number of listings—especially in popular areas like Gárdony and Velence, now functioning almost as suburbs of Budapest.
Lake Tisza region stands out as affordable alternative
In contrast, the Lake Tisza region stands out for its affordability. In towns such as Tiszafüred, Poroszló, and Abádszalók, prices typically range from HUF 220,000 to 450,000 (EUR 550 to 1,120) per square metre. According to György Csaba Kiss, OTP Ingatlanpont’s senior sales advisor, buyers can still expect an additional 10% bargaining margin in many cases. He noted that while demand fluctuates seasonally, Lake Tisza remains a popular location year-round, especially for those seeking permanent residences rather than just vacation homes.
Another notable difference is the type of properties available. Around Lake Tisza, most listings are full-fledged houses rather than summer homes, and buyers often intend to use them as primary residences. The most sought-after towns are Tiszafüred and Poroszló, followed by Abádszalók, Sarud, Tiszanána, and Kisköre. While the market is dominated by private Hungarian buyers, a growing number of investors—and even foreigners from countries like Romania and Ukraine—are entering the scene. Investment-driven purchases now account for about 20% of transactions.
How much time does it take to sell property?
The time it takes to sell a property around Lake Tisza varies. Homes with realistic pricing can be sold within a year, whereas overpriced listings may sit on the market for up to two years. Among the most promising up-and-coming locations are Tiszaszőlős and Tiszaderzs, where good deals are still available for savvy buyers.
Lake Tisza offers a rare combination of affordability, livability, and investment potential, making it an increasingly attractive option for those looking beyond the country’s overhyped lakeside resorts.
Read more about the property market in Hungary HERE.
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