2024. Nov. 18.

Kibérelem.hu: the largest selection of commercial premises for rent in Budapest

In this chapter of our series on the activities of Shopping Street Management, we present our joint project with the City of Budapest, Kibérelem.hu. We must say upfront that this service is somewhat different from the others. The "owner" of the site is Ré

What is the essence of Kibérelem.hu?

Kibérelem.hu is a flagship project jointly run by BUM and the Municipality of Budapest. It is both a listing platform and a program aimed at reducing the number of vacant commercial properties in Budapest. We have been working on this topic since 2013, and since 2018 in its current form. The platform is currently operated in collaboration with the Budapest Enterprise Agency.

Our project, which focuses on decreasing vacant properties, is much more than a simple real estate portal. In addition to listings, we provide up-to-date, aggregated economic data such as purchasing power and demographic information. Kibérelem.hu also features a professional directory, where users can find specialists for shop renovation and operation. For professionals, this represents a free promotional opportunity made possible through the support of the Budapest Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

Who can advertise on the site?

We currently collaborate with 11 district municipalities and the Fény Street Market, and we expect this number to grow soon. The site typically hosts around 200 active listings, two-thirds of which are municipal properties, though private listings are also welcome. Posting is free of charge. Site traffic is steadily increasing, with thousands of monthly visitors - and we hope even more will use it in the future.

Where did the idea for a platform focused on rentable commercial spaces come from?

This practice is common and well-functioning in Western Europe. As mentioned, this is not just a portal but a comprehensive program enriched with valuable data. The site also includes a feasibility suggestion feature, which helps determine whether opening a new business at a particular location is advisable based on available data.

We’re also developing our system in collaboration with our partners in Vienna, adopting best practices. The strength of this partnership is reflected in the fact that users can access Viennese listings directly through Kibérelem.hu.

What value-creation processes are connected to Kibérelem.hu?

For municipalities, the properties involved in the program can once again become active sources of revenue, while the urban landscape is improved. A leased property gains a responsible daily operator, which - especially in the case of retail spaces - contributes to maintenance, cleanliness of the property and its surroundings, and reintegration into the property market.

This can also help revitalize public spaces, which in turn can increase entrepreneurial interest, reduce costs, and fully reconnect these areas to the city’s active circulation. For entrepreneurs, it offers a new business opportunity if their services are featured on the platform.