As city-center apartment prices soar beyond the reach of most buyers, some projects once deemed “hard-to-sell” due to their proximity to cemeteries are now experiencing high liquidity and significant price increases compared to the previous year. Despite the sensitive nature of their location, these well-planned developments with excellent infrastructure are becoming a practical choice for many.
Mr. Nguyễn Thanh Tùng, a real estate agent in Hoài Đức, shared that when an apartment project in western Hanoi launched in 2024, a buyer rejected a unit overlooking a cemetery. By 2025, that same apartment was not only in high demand but also saw its price surge by an additional 1 billion VND.
Surveys indicate that apartment prices in this project now range from 70 to 90 million VND per square meter, and even units with cemetery views are sold out. According to Tùng, buyer psychology has shifted significantly. Instead of avoiding properties due to feng shui concerns, buyers now prioritize reasonable prices, convenient locations, and reputable developers.
Along Lê Văn Lương street, a residential project once criticized for its proximity to a cemetery has seen apartment prices rise by 15-20% compared to the previous year.
Illustrative photo of projects near cemeteries. Photo: D.A |
Average prices for 2-3 bedroom apartments range from 70 to 80 million VND per square meter, putting a 2-bedroom unit (60-70 sqm) at approximately 2.7 to 3.7 billion VND, and a 3-bedroom unit (80-95 sqm) at 6.3 to 8.3 billion VND.
This project is located near a major road, offering convenient transportation, well-developed amenities, and a thriving community. The proximity to the cemetery is no longer a concern for many buyers.
In Cầu Giấy district, projects near an old cemetery have seen prices rise sharply, ranging from 60 to 114 million VND per square meter, with an average of 70 to 90 million VND per square meter—a 20-25% increase in just one year. Thanks to their central location, comprehensive infrastructure, and excellent connectivity, these projects attract both homeowners and investors, despite any feng shui concerns.
In Hoàng Mai district, apartment prices near cemeteries have also increased by 15-20% since 2024, reaching 60 to 94 million VND per square meter. While liquidity is slightly slower compared to other areas, this segment remains attractive to young residents or buyers seeking affordable options in a market with limited supply.
Shifting Perspectives
According to real estate agents, the notion that “cemeteries are bad feng shui” is gradually changing. In 2025, with limited supply and soaring property prices, buyers are becoming more pragmatic, focusing on location, amenities, and potential for appreciation rather than spiritual factors.
Mr. Trần Minh Hùng, another real estate agent, notes that many buyers now see properties near cemeteries as an opportunity, actively seeking out units with cemetery views for lower prices. As surrounding infrastructure develops, property values naturally increase.
Hùng believes market psychology has shifted dramatically. Buyers now prioritize investment potential over intangible fears. Apartments near cemeteries, priced at 70-80 million VND per square meter, are a sensible choice compared to the exorbitant prices in central areas.
Ms. Lê Thu Hà, an apartment owner in the Lê Văn Lương area, shared: “Initially, I was hesitant, but after visiting the site, I found the area well-planned, with plenty of greenery and a safe distance from the cemetery. The price was nearly 15% lower than nearby apartments, so I decided to buy.”
According to Hà, if a residential area is spacious, filled with greenery, abundant sunlight, and good wind direction, any negative energy can be effectively neutralized.
Experts suggest that as property prices continue to peak, homes near cemeteries are quietly becoming an integral part of today’s condominium market, moving from being shunned to being sought after.
Duy Anh
– 05:45 21/10/2025
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