CNN – Poles Flock to Spain Amid Ukraine Conflict Fears
The real estate market in Spain is booming as an increasing number of Poles are purchasing properties on the southern coast, driven by fears of Russia’s war in Ukraine spreading. Agnes Marciniak-Kostrzewa, a veteran real estate agent, has seen a surge in interest from Polish clients looking to buy homes in Spain, citing concerns about the conflict in Ukraine.
Many Poles have become wealthier since the fall of communism and are now looking to retire and relocate to warmer climates. The ability to work remotely, a trend accelerated by the pandemic, has also encouraged many to consider a move to Spain. However, recent comments from Western figures, including former US President Donald Trump and Poland’s Prime Minister Donald Tusk, have further fueled fears of potential conflict, leading to a rush in property purchases among the Polish population.
From panic-buying due to concerns about being drafted into the military to investing in a second home for peace of mind, Poles are taking various approaches to safeguarding themselves amidst uncertainty. The surge in demand for Spanish properties extends beyond Poland, with other Eastern European countries also seeing increased interest in purchasing homes abroad.
As Russia continues to assert its power and Europe faces security challenges, the trend of Eastern Europeans seeking refuge abroad is expected to continue. The real estate market in Spain is reaping the benefits of this growing demand, with agents like Marciniak-Kostrzewa seeing unprecedented levels of interest from clients looking for a safe haven amidst geopolitical tensions.