At the start of 2026, the sector showed renewed confidence after two difficult years. Transactions were picking up again and buyers were returning in numbers. The dynamic seemed to be underway. But spring came like a sudden brake. Driven by an uncertain economic and geopolitical context, the old property market experienced a marked slowdown in March, slowing down the acquisition plans of households who had become cautious.
The figures confirm it: Fnaim anticipates a decrease in transaction volume of 5 to 6% in 2026 compared to 2025. Over twelve rolling months, sales increased from 958,000 at the end of February to 941,000 at the end of April, i.e. 17,000 transactions lost in two months. However, no collapse in prices is in sight: in the first quarter of 2026, the prices of old housing even increased by 0.2%, driven by apartments (+ 0.6%) while houses fell by 0.2%. A paradox that breathes new life into buyers.
Sellers: beware of disconnected prices
The old real estate market is going through a period of slowdown which is resulting in a extension of sales times with buyers taking more time before decidingobserves Brice Cardi, president of the Address. At the same time, the high level of supply reinforces this trend with goods with defects, work or poor DPE which can remain on sale for several months.
“Some sellers continue to overestimate the value of their property, thinking they can wait for the right buyer »underlines the real estate expert. “ However, in today’s market, a starting price disconnected from reality can considerably extend the sales time. More than ever, it is essential to rely on an estimate carried out by a professional and on the prices actually charged locally. »
Buyers: a unique window to seize
This slowdown transforms the situation for buyers. Richer offer, deadlines which allow you to compare calmly: the balance of power has shifted. Our expert confirms it. “Today we are in a buyers’ market: the supply is more abundant, buyers have a wider choice and the sales deadlines allow them to visit several properties, to compare calmly and, in certain cases, to negotiate the price”analyzes Brice Cardi.
For sellers, the message is clear: “Those who wish to sell under good conditions must agree to position themselves at the right price from the start and trust the estimates of professionals. A properly valued property continues to find buyers within a reasonable time frame, even in a more wait-and-see market. »
