How to Choose an Apartment from a Developer in a New Building

Buying an apartment is a serious and responsible decision, especially when it comes to a new building. Future owners have to weigh many factors, from the developer's reputation to the layout. Choosing an apartment in a new building requires a systematic and careful approach. Here's how to choose an apartment from a developer and what to look for to avoid mistakes.

Criteria for Choosing an Apartment in a New Building

To find the right apartment in a new building, rely on a number of objective criteria. They will help you filter out unsuitable options and focus on the offers that are truly worth your attention.

Developer's reputation. Find out how long the developer has been on the market, whether it has completed projects, and whether it delivers buildings on schedule.
Neighborhood infrastructure. Schools, kindergartens, shops, public transport and green spaces have a direct impact on your comfort.
Which floor to choose in a new building. Lower floors are convenient for families with children and older people, while upper floors suit those who value quiet and a good view.
Construction stage. The closer the building is to completion, the lower the risks and the sooner you can move in.
Type of finish. Check whether the apartment is delivered with a shell finish or a pre-finish, or whether it is already move-in ready.

Also pay attention to the documents: a building permit, a guarantee from the Unified Housing Construction Operator, and the developer's accreditation with banks if you are planning to take out a mortgage.

Apartment Layouts in a Residential Complex

A convenient layout is one of the key factors when choosing a home. It should suit your lifestyle and the size of your family.

Number of rooms and their size — especially important for families with children.
Zoning — ideally, rest areas and activity areas should not overlap.
A balcony, storage room or walk-in closet — adds convenience and functionality.
Natural light and window orientation — affect comfort at different times of the day.

It is just as important to consider how the usable area of the apartment will be used — these are the square meters you actually use every day.

What Total Area and Living Area Mean

Before buying, it's important to understand how an apartment's area is calculated. This will help you assess the price objectively.

The total area of an apartment includes all of its spaces, including bathrooms, the kitchen and the hallway, as well as balconies and loggias, which are counted with a reduction factor. The design area of the apartment is stated in the documents and may differ from the actual area after measurements.

Living area refers to rooms suitable for permanent living: bedrooms, the living room and the children's room. Total area and living area are different, and understanding the difference is important when comparing offers.

Is a Loggia Included in the Total Area of an Apartment?

In most cases, a loggia is included in the total area but counted with a reduction factor, usually 0.5. So if the loggia is 4 m², 2 m² will be added to the total area.

Is a Balcony Included in the Total Area of an Apartment?

A balcony is also included in the total area, but the factor may be even lower, from 0.3 to 0.5. It depends on the standards and rules in force in the region. Check this point with the developer when buying.

How to Choose the Right Apartment in a New Building: Conclusion

It's important to follow a step-by-step plan:

Decide on your budget and payment method — full payment, a mortgage or an installment plan.
Research the developer and its past projects.
Evaluate the location of the complex and the neighborhood infrastructure.
Figure out which layout will be most convenient for you and what the price per square meter is based on.
Ask yourself: which floor is best for you in a new building?

Choosing an apartment in a new building is always about finding a balance between your wishes and your financial means. To make an informed decision, consider not only the price and the neighborhood but also the technical details: the design area of the apartment, how total and living area are calculated, and whether the loggia or balcony is included in the total area. These details directly affect living comfort, the functionality of the home and the final price.

The construction market in Kazakhstan is developing rapidly, especially in a city like Almaty. That's why, when choosing a home in a new building, it's important to analyze offers carefully, study the documentation, and consider both your current and future needs. This approach helps you choose the best option that meets all your key requirements.