Realtor Shmelev explained how rental housing in Russia has changed by the summer of 2026.

      June 16, 2026 19:44 Society In the summer of 2026, significant changes occurred in the long-term rental housing market in Russia, favoring tenants. An increase in supply and a constant number of tenants led property owners to lower their demands and agree to tenants with pets and children. Changes in the rental housing market in Russia Real estate expert Vladimir Shmelev noted in a conversation with 360.ru that two years ago, tenants found housing quickly, and sometimes even an auction would arise. Now, however, similar properties can remain vacant for several months at the same prices. This is due to several factors. Firstly, the tightening of migration policy has led to a decrease in the influx of newcomers for work, which has freed up a large number of economy-class properties in the rental market. Secondly, after 2020, many purchased apartments in new buildings through preferential programs for investment. By 2026, they had renovated and furnished the apartments, increasing the supply in the market. Experts expect a traditional increase in demand at the beginning of the school year and the end of the holiday season. However, those who have not been able to find tenants under current conditions may do so in July-August if they do not raise prices. Today, apartments of various sizes are popular. Studios are becoming less in demand as people prefer more comfortable living with a separate room for relaxation and a kitchen. One-bedroom apartments are popular, as well as family formats—two and three-room apartments. Changes in legislation Legislative changes aimed at protecting the rights of tenants and landlords have emerged. Electronic contracts have become the main tool for concluding transactions. They are signed using a strengthened electronic signature and have several advantages. Tenants are guaranteed that no one will enter the apartment without warning, all payments will be transparent, and the owner will not be able to claim non-receipt of money. Landlords are protected from property damage, fines, debts, and subletting. Renting out an apartment now requires the registration of temporary residency for the tenant. There are fines for the absence of registration for both the landlord and the tenant. A lease agreement concluded for a term of more than one year must be registered with the Rosreestr. Despite the increase in taxes, the real estate rental market is becoming increasingly transparent. Property owners are more frequently registering as self-employed and paying taxes, which simplifies the process and makes it more accessible. NIA "Nizhny Novgorod" has channels on Telegram and MAX. Subscribe to stay updated on major events, exclusive materials, and timely information. Copyright © 1999—2025 NIA "Nizhny Novgorod". When reprinting, a hyperlink to NIA "Nizhny Novgorod" is mandatory. This resource may contain materials 18+