Her professional path combines a background in economics and international marketing with extensive expertise in interior architecture.

Motherhood gave her first-hand insight into the everyday needs of families, a perspective that strongly informs her design approach.

Since 2016, Ildikó has been running her own practice, working on projects ranging from small apartments and family homes to holiday houses and commercial spaces – always blending creative solutions with a practical, value-driven mindset.

How Smart Interior Design Can Add Millions to Your Budapest Investment Property

Q: If a businessperson buys an apartment in Budapest for investment purposes, why is it worth hiring an interior designer?

A: Think about it: if an apartment is beautiful, well-planned, and practical, it can be rented out immediately – and tenants are willing to pay more for it. This isn’t just about aesthetics – it’s investment math. A well-designed interior is like a tailored suit at a business meeting: it looks professional and instantly adds value.

Q: Okay, but can this really be translated into financial terms?

A: Absolutely. Statistics show that in 2025, around 40% of property purchases in Budapest are investment-driven. A turnkey apartment with a smart layout and high-quality interior can easily achieve 10–15% higher prices compared to an average, unrenovated property. In real terms, that can mean several million forints difference in the final value.

Q: Is the market really this favorable right now?

A: Yes. The supply of new-build apartments is limited, prices continue to rise, and demand is strong. There’s also a solid tenant base: international professionals, employees of multinational companies, and digital nomads. They don’t want to deal with renovations – they want a ready-to-move-in home where they can simply unpack their suitcase. That’s exactly what a well-designed interior provides.

Q: Why is this particularly attractive for expats?

A: Budapest offers excellent value for money: not just in property, but in lifestyle. Great public transport, a vibrant cultural scene, and a dynamic international community make the city highly appealing. A stylish, modern apartment in the city center is very easy to rent out to expat tenants. They value style, comfort, quality materials, and practical layouts. That’s why they are willing to pay more – and often stay longer.

Q: Why does design and functionality matter so much?

A: First impressions are made through photos. If a listing showcases a high-quality interior, the property immediately stands out. Logical layouts, quality materials, and harmonious colors are not only attractive but also timeless and sustainable. This translates into lower maintenance costs and higher rental income. In short: good design generates profit.

Q: If an investor is reading this, why should they choose you?

A: Because I combine an investor’s perspective with creative solutions. Between 2003 and 2008, I managed corporate projects at Europa Design, and today I run the Fine Interior brand, designing residential apartments and houses. I know exactly what it takes to make a property quickly rentable, value-preserving, and premium.

I began my studies at the International Business School Budapest, where English communication was the focus, and later graduated from Metropolitan University in Interior Architecture. This gave me insight not only into the artistic but also the business side of projects – and it is this dual perspective that truly strengthens my work.

Contact: Ildikó Pongrácz via email or via www.fineinterior.hu