ifac | Buying or selling a house: What changes in 2026?

The 2026 real estate market will be a year of new regulations, adjusted financial rules, and a noticeably calmer market pace. This creates opportunities for those wishing to buy or sell, provided you know what to look out for. IFAC Service closely monitors these evolutions and guides clients through every step of their real estate journey, from valuation and purchase assistance to tax optimization and sales advice. This article bundles the key market insights and translates them into clear, actionable information. This way, you enter 2026 with knowledge, confidence, and a professional partner by your side.

What changes in 2026?

The favorable 2% registration duty rate for the sole owner-occupied home remains in place, but conditions remain strict and must be correctly followed. a notable change is that split purchases via usufruct and bare ownership can no longer benefit from this preferential rate. From 2026, the standard 12% rate will apply again, making certain tax structures less attractive. Significant evolutions are also visible in the credit market. Mortgage rates seem to be stabilizing between 3.5% and 4.5%. While higher than the historically low rates of a few years ago, this predictability makes solid financial planning possible once again. Regarding house prices, analysts predict a cooling of the market. The spectacular growth rates of previous years are making way for a more moderate increase of approximately 1.5% to 3.5%. This creates room for negotiations and rational decisions on both the buyer and seller sides. Energy efficiency remains a determining factor. Living comfort, EPC labels, and recent renovations carry increasing weight in the decision-making process. Homes with strong energy scores retain their value better and remain attractive to buyers.

What does this mean for buyers and sellers?

For buyers, 2026 offers breathing room. Less competition and slower price increases ensure that negotiations become more realistic again. You don’t have to jump in as quickly and can choose more deliberately based on housing needs, location, and energy performance. Furthermore, stabilizing interest rates make it possible to plan a loan without the fear of rates suddenly spiking. Sellers and investors face a different challenge. The period of self-evident capital gains is behind us, making realistic pricing more important. Buyers are more critical and compare more, meaning the condition of the home — especially regarding energy — is a key selling point. Those who invest in insulation, new technologies, or a better EPC make their home more attractive and position themselves more strongly in the market. Professional presentation and transparent documentation (EPC, certificates, renovation history) carry more weight than before.

For whom is 2026 interesting?

First-time buyers benefit from the favorable 2% rate and the calmer market, while budget buyers looking for renovation projects might find that affordable property that seemed unattainable in previous years. Long-term investors will find 2026 a stable environment to pick up energy-efficient or value-add real estate. Sellers can still achieve great results, but primarily when they prepare their home well and offer it in line with market prices.

What should you definitely look out for?

Anyone wishing to buy or sell in 2026 should opt for a well-thought-out approach. Check if your purchase qualifies for the reduced registration duty rate and think long-term: not just the purchase price, but energy, maintenance, and renovation play an increasingly large role. It pays to pay attention to energy performance, as this remains a determining factor for value and attractiveness. Due to stabilizing interest rates and a calmer market climate, you have the chance to make well-considered choices without the fear of missing an opportunity.

Conclusion

2026 will not be a year of extreme fluctuations, but a year where knowledge and strategy make the difference. Ifac supports you with expert advice, accurate valuations, tax guidance, and a sales or purchase strategy that aligns with your goals. Want to know what these developments mean for your specific real estate plans? We are happy to help you with personalized, tailor-made advice.