Apartment with or without developer finish?

Quick outline — what you will read

• What "developer finish" and "without finish" mean
• Advantages of developer finish: speed, warranties, simplicity
• Drawbacks of developer finish: design limits, variable quality
• When to buy without finish: control, added value, flexibility
• Inspection checklist before purchase ✅
• Example approaches by budget and intention
• How BuyHome supports buyers in Batumi 🧭

Introduction

Choosing between a developer-finished apartment and a shell (unfinished) unit is a common decision for buyers in Batumi. The right choice depends on your timeline, budget, and goals — whether you plan to live in the apartment, rent it out, or hold it as an investment.

What do the terms mean? 🏗️

• Developer finish typically includes flooring, basic sanitary equipment, painted or plastered walls, and sometimes a basic kitchen and appliances. The level of completion varies by project.
• Unfinished (shell) apartments usually have bare floors, raw walls and basic utility connections. This option offers full control over materials, layout and finishes.

Pros of buying with developer finish ✅

• Immediate move-in or quick rental potential — saves time.
• Often comes with initial defect warranties from the developer.
• Budget predictability for basic works — fewer surprises at the start.
• Convenient for buyers who prefer a turnkey solution or lack time to manage a renovation.

Cons of developer finish ⚠️

• Limited design freedom — you may have to accept the developer's choices.
• Quality can be inconsistent — cheaper finishes may require early replacement.
• Changing built-in elements can be harder and may affect warranties.

When buying without finish makes sense 🎯

• You want full control of the layout and materials for long-term living.
• You plan a higher-end renovation to increase rental income or resale value.
• You have reliable contractors and time to manage the process.

Inspection checklist before you buy 🛠️

• Check utility rough-ins: plumbing, electrical, presence of meters.
• Ask for examples of developer-finished apartments from the same builder.
• Clarify warranty terms and repair procedures for new builds.
• Compare contractor estimates for finishing vs what the developer provides.
• Verify realistic timelines for completion and handover.
• Make decisions based on intended use: personal use, short-term rental, long-term investment.

Practical examples by goal

• Fast move-in: choose developer finish, then make minor upgrades over time.
• Custom living: buy shell and invest in high-quality finishes and layout changes.
• Rental-oriented: pick a durable, neutral finish or a cost-effective shell to finish with robust materials.

Managing the renovation: tips

• Sign a clear contract with your contractor including milestones and payment schedule.
• Keep records: photos, receipts, warranties for materials.
• Prioritize technical systems first: plumbing, heating, electrical.
• Build a contingency reserve in your budget for unexpected finds.

How BuyHome can help 🤝

We help clients compare apartments in Batumi, evaluate developer finishes, and recommend trusted contractors. Use our property search to filter by finish level and other preferences: https://buyhome.ge/en/search or explore opportunities at https://buyhome.ge/en

Short practical advice

• No single right answer — pick based on your timeline and goals.
• Need speed? Choose a developer-finished apartment but inspect quality carefully.
• Want uniqueness and higher long-term value? Buy an unfinished unit and renovate to your standards.

If you want help comparing specific offers in Batumi or organising a quality check or renovation, contact BuyHome. We’ll help you choose the best option and support you through the purchase.