The year 2026 is shaping up to be a turning point for the Brussels real estate market. After several years marked by rising interest rates, high inflation, and a slowdown in transactions, the indicators now point toward a phase of stabilization — and possibly a moderate recovery. From price trends to rental dynamics, taxation, and buyer behavior, here’s a clear and concise overview of what lies ahead for Brussels in 2026.
📈 1. Moderate but Steady Price Growth
According to analyses from major Belgian economic institutions, property prices in Belgium are expected to rise by around 3% in 2025 and 2026. Brussels, traditionally more resilient than other regions, is likely to follow this trend.
Why this increase?
- Structurally strong demand: Brussels continues to attract expatriates, students, and European workers.
- Limited supply: Urban planning constraints and scarce land keep upward pressure on prices.
- Gradual return of confidence: After a slowdown in 2023–2024, buyers are returning to the market.
👉 Bottom line: no price surge, but steady growth, especially for well‑located and energy‑efficient properties.
🏦 2. More Stable Interest Rates
After a period of volatility between 2022 and 2024, mortgage rates appear to be entering a phase of normalization. Experts anticipate stability in 2026, with a possible slight decrease depending on economic conditions.
What this means for buyers:
- Better visibility for planning a purchase.
- Borrowing capacity that stops deteriorating.
- A gradual return of first‑time buyers, who are particularly sensitive to rate fluctuations.
🏘️ 3. A Two‑Speed Market in Brussels
As always, Brussels stands out for its strong disparities between municipalities and property types.
Areas showing strong momentum:
- Ixelles, Etterbeek, Woluwe‑Saint‑Lambert: high demand, sustained prices.
- Neighborhoods near major transport lines (metro, future North metro): increased attractiveness.
- Renovated and energy‑efficient properties: increasingly valued.
More fragile segments:
- Energy‑inefficient properties (PEB E or F): growing discount, longer selling times.
- Transitional neighborhoods: dependent on ongoing urban development projects.
🏢 4. Rental Market: High Pressure and Rising Rents
Rents are expected to continue rising in 2026, driven by:
- Very strong rental demand, especially from young professionals and expatriates.
- Insufficient supply, worsened by the cost of energy renovations.
- More stable indexation after the inflation spikes of 2022–2023.
👉 Result: Brussels will remain a tight rental market, with likely rent increases, particularly for renovated and well‑located units.
🌱 5. Energy Performance: A Key Factor
Energy efficiency is becoming a central criterion in buying and renting decisions.
In 2026, expect:
- Higher valuation of PEB A, B, and C properties.
- Increasing regulatory pressure to renovate inefficient buildings.
- Significant investments in renovation, supported by regional incentives.
🔮 6. Overall Outlook for 2026
| Indicator | 2026 Trend | Analysis |
|---|---|---|
| Sale prices | 📈 Moderate increase (~3%) | Resilient market, strong demand |
| Interest rates | ⚖️ Stabilization | Normalization after 2022–2024 |
| Rents | 📈 Rising | Persistent rental pressure |
| Transactions | 📊 Gradual recovery | Buyer confidence returning |
| Energy‑inefficient properties | ⬇️ Discount | High renovation costs |
| Efficient properties | ⬆️ Premium | Strong demand, limited supply |
✅ Conclusion: 2026, a Positive Transition Year
The Brussels real estate market is expected to enter 2026 with a healthier dynamic:
- controlled price growth,
- stabilized interest rates,
- a very active rental market,
- and a growing emphasis on energy performance.
For buyers, 2026 could offer more clarity and better conditions than 2023–2024. For sellers, well‑located and renovated properties will remain highly sought after. For investors, Brussels continues to be a solid market with structurally strong rental demand.