Real Estate info 2026: What’s Changing for Owners and Investors

1. Indexed cadastral income: anticipate your taxes

In 2026, the cadastral income (CI), used to calculate certain property taxes, will be indexed by 2.5%. Even if the increase appears modest, it will automatically influence the property tax, generating a cumulative impact on your fiscal charges.

E&V Tip:

Review your real estate budget and adjust your asset strategy to avoid surprises. Proactive planning allows better property management and optimized long-term returns.

2. Brussels: new rental standards from 2026

As of January 2026, any dwelling offered for rent in Brussels must comply with reinforced minimum standards for:

• thermal & acoustic insulation

• ventilation

• electrical safety

• general comfort

• essential equipment

• What about properties already rented?

These units may continue to be rented provided the owner commits to bringing the property into compliance within a deadline set by the authorities.

Without a compliance plan, authorities may:

• prohibit renting

• suspend or refuse to renew the lease

• impose administrative sanctions

There is no immediate eviction of tenants, but upgrades become unavoidable.

Owner impact:

Compliance may represent a cost, but it also increases the value of the property—especially in Brussels’ highly competitive rental market.

E&V Tip:

Have your properties audited as early as 2025 to spread renovation costs, secure rental continuity and improve attractiveness (better insulation = less vacancy + higher-quality tenants).

3. Flanders: renovation grants and loans

In Flanders, 2026 brings a major restructuring of renovation incentives.

Two main directions:

• simplified and merged grants

• stricter criteria focused on energy efficiency and sustainability

Note: Certain details are still being finalised, including eligibility criteria for subsidised loans.

Owner impact:

Owners and investors planning an energy renovation could benefit from significant financial advantages.

E&V Tip:

Plan your works strategically to maximize available subsidies. A combined “renovation + grants” strategy is now a real value booster.

4. Wallonia: a strongly rising real estate market

Following the reduction of registration duties, the Walloon property market has surged: prices rose by nearly 6.7% in 2025, according to the Notaries’ Barometer. This demonstrates the region’s strong appeal for buyers and investors.

E&V Tip:

To sell or invest in Wallonia, strategic positioning is key: attractive properties sell faster and at higher prices, and buyers act quickly.

5. Brussels, a strong market for landlords

By the end of 2025, only 20% of Brussels residents were homeowners, according to SPF Finance data. This creates strong and steady rental demand—an opportunity for landlords and investors.

E&V Tip:

Optimize your properties for the rental market and ensure full compliance with current standards. A compliant, attractive unit guarantees stable income and strengthens long-term asset value.

Conclusion: 2026 = anticipate to enhance value

The 2026 adjustments are not designed to hinder investment but to modernize the Belgian real estate stock. For owners, the key will be strategic anticipation, especially regarding:

• holding costs

• rental compliance

• energy renovations

• regional dynamics

Engel & Völkers guides its clients in the analysis, valuation and optimization of their residential real estate assets.

Want to adapt your properties to the new market reality? Our experts are available for a property audit and a tailored strategy.