Survey of the State and Change in the Number of Unoccupied Properties in Bulgaria

Abstract

This article presents the results of a study on the number, dynamics and distribution by area of unoccupied dwellings in Bulgaria. The distinction between unoccupied and abandoned residential property is clarified, as are the reasons why a residential property may be unoccupied. Furthermore, the possible benefits and ways of including part of the non-residential properties into the commercial turnover are discussed and a thesis is substantiated, namely: that the very existence and presence of non-residential residential properties as a form of assets with expected benefits of settlement or price increase in the long-term would not contradict with what market logic is; moreover, if they make a moderate share of the total housing stock they should not be considered a negative as they do increase national and personal wealth. What has been used here is data from the 2011 and 2021 population and housing censuses and statistical methods of analysis including descriptive development indicators, correlation analysis and index factor analysis. Some conclusions were drawn to focus attention on issues like improving transport, utilities and social infrastructure in rural areas in order to increase the attractiveness of vacant housing in these areas. What is proposed: to intensify controls on the management and use of formally unoccupied housing so as to limit the relative share of the grey sector in letting housing property. The article also contains a summary of both national and international experience in terms of any possible changes to the status of unoccupied properties.