Developer instalments in Georgia: how they work

Most new builds in Batumi and Tbilisi are sold with developer instalments. This is not a mortgage: no bank is involved, there is no interest and no proof of income.

Typical terms

• Down payment — 20–30 % (some projects from 10 %).
• Balance — equal monthly or quarterly payments until completion. The term depends on the construction stage: 2–4 years at sales launch, under a year close to completion.
• No interest, but the instalment price can be 5–10 % above the full-payment price; always ask for the 100 % payment discount.
• In completed buildings instalments are shorter (6–12 months) or unavailable.

Who qualifies

Any buyer, including foreigners. The developer cares about the payment schedule, not your income — there is no affordability check.

If you miss a payment

The terms are in the contract and worth reading before signing. Typically: a penalty of 0.05–0.1 % per day; after 1–3 months of arrears the developer may terminate and refund what was paid minus a penalty (10–20 % of the amount paid or of the price). Some developers allow assigning the contract to another buyer — a lifeline if you cannot keep paying.

When the apartment becomes yours

The contract is registered in the Public Registry at once — the unit is reserved for you. Ownership transfers after full payment and completion. Until then the apartment can be assigned but not mortgaged.

Instalments or a mortgage

Georgian banks rarely lend to non-residents, and at 10–13 % a year in dollars. Developer instalments are free but shorter: you pay faster. A common strategy is instalments until completion, then refinancing against the finished apartment if needed.

Where to look

Complexes with instalments: across Georgia, Batumi, Tbilisi. The down payment and term are on each project's card.