Romania Joins Schengen: Unlocking New Horizons for Business and Real Estate

As of January 1, 2025, Romania has officially joined the Schengen Area, marking a historic milestone that reshapes its economic and geopolitical landscape. This long-anticipated development, alongside Bulgaria’s accession, heralds a new era of opportunity for businesses, investors and real estate professionals.

The Impact on Commercial Real Estate

Romania's inclusion in the Schengen Area eliminates border checks with other Schengen member states, enabling the seamless movement of goods, services and people. This change directly enhances Romania’s appeal as a commercial hub, creating new opportunities in sectors like Logistics, Retail and Office.

1. Boost in Logistics and Industrial Real Estate

The removal of border checks simplifies supply chain operations, making Romania an even more attractive location for logistics centers and industrial parks. This is particularly significant given Bucharest's strategic location and Romania's growing role as a gateway between Eastern and Western Europe.

2. Increased Demand for Office Spaces

With greater mobility for talent and businesses across Europe, Bucharest is poised to attract more multinational companies looking to expand or establish regional offices. This will likely drive demand for Class A office spaces in the capital and other key cities.

3. Retail and Mixed-Use Development Opportunities

As Romania becomes more integrated into the European economy, consumer confidence is expected to rise, fueling demand for high-quality retail spaces. Developers may also see new opportunities for mixed-use properties that combine office, retail and residential elements.

What This Means for Investors

Romania’s Schengen accession amplifies the country’s investment potential. From a real estate perspective, this development could lead to:

• Higher Property Valuations: Increased demand for commercial properties may drive up prices, benefiting early investors.
• New Development Projects: Improved logistics and cross-border trade could spur new construction projects, particularly in industrial and retail sectors.
• Foreign Direct Investment (FDI): Easier access to and from Romania is likely to attract more foreign investors, further boosting the real estate market.

APEX Asset Management: Your Partner in the Schengen Era

At APEX Asset Management, we understand the transformative impact this milestone will have on the real estate sector. As Bucharest and Romania at large position themselves as key players in the European economy, our expertise in commercial real estate ensures you’re well-equipped to navigate this evolving landscape.

Whether you’re seeking Office space, Retail locations or Investment opportunities, APEX Asset Management is here to guide you every step of the way.

Ready to seize the opportunities in a Schengen Romania?
Contact us today to explore how we can help you find the perfect property to meet your business needs.

Stay tuned to our blog for more insights into how Romania’s Schengen accession is reshaping the commercial real estate market!