It’s no secret that there’s a housing crisis in Belgium. The challenges of finding a home are, if anything, slightly lower than in some other EU countries, at least on paper. We can also see that the Belgian Government has taken steps to streamline the rental market.
But it’s clear that, despite these changes, the housing market continues to show little sign of slowing down or coming under control. We can even see this in residential housing, with sales in this sector growing by 15% year-on-year in the first nine months of 2025. Apartments remain, by far, the most popular choice for people looking to rent.
'The overall standard of the properties on the market has improved, with an increasing number achieving an A energy rating. Renovations and home improvements continue to grow across Belgium, with more finance secured on renovations than on the purchase of new properties. '
Each year, the CIB produces a report on the state of the rental market. Called the rental barometer, this is a good indication of how the rental market is doing and what we can expect from the year ahead. The CIB itself, is the largest real estate network in Flanders and Brussels, making it uniquely positioned to assess the reality for house hunters on the ground.
The latest edition was released in February this year, and it’s interesting reading, though, for many, not surprising. So, how bad is the housing issue for new arrivals in the country?
Rents Continue to Go Up
The trend of rental growth has been in place for many years, and 2025 was no exception. Though previous years were stronger, with 2023 rents growing by 8.8% and 2024 by 5.5%, 2025 saw an increase of 3.7% across the country.
This is, of course, variable based on the region, with the areas surrounding Brussels and Leuven experiencing noticeably higher increases. Whilst this would suggest that the market maybe hitting a more stable position, the fact that last years’ rise remained above inflation is of concern.
Although higher rates aren’t great for finances, there is good news too. The overall standard of the properties on the market has improved, with an increasing number achieving an A energy rating. Renovations and home improvements continue to grow across Belgium, with more finance secured on renovations than on the purchase of new properties.
Slower Growth in Stock
Supply is central to any market, and in a growing market, the hope is that more demand will increase supply. However, at the moment, that isn’t the case in Belgium.
In the Flemish region in 2025, fewer than 50,000 new rental properties became available and in Brussels it was less than 9,000. These are both lower than in previous years, and, in fact, a record low for the Flemish region.
This creates a structural supply shortage, especially with the increase in the number of single occupancy properties. If this trend continues, then rental prices and availability will likely continue to decline and accelerate across Belgium, for locals and expats alike.
Smart Alternatives
While this is grim reading for local residents, these challenges don’t have to impact expats. For short and even medium-term assignees, this continued pressure in the wider housing market has led many to look for alternatives. That’s where serviced accommodation comes in.
Offering a turn-key solution, with little paperwork, a high standard of quality and strong service, these are a real option for new arrivals, especially those with shorter assignments. Giving a much easier and more convenient option to traditional rental, serviced accommodation can greatly reduce the stresses which moving country may bring.
Getting help with your move
Another alternative is to enlist the support of someone already on the ground. Relocation agents can help you navigate finding a new home, by offering local knowledge and undertaking some of the groundwork for you ahead (or after) arrival.
They will be able to help you identify the style of property which best suits your needs and identify areas where they will most likely become available. With their local contacts, they may even be able to get you access to properties that you might otherwise not have heard of.
Of course, there are real estate agencies that specialise in supporting the expat market, so if you’re planning on staying in Belgium a little longer, it’s certainly worth consulting the real estate experts.
If the market continues as is, it will only become more difficult and expensive to find a home, long or short-term, in Belgium. So, start looking for your new home as early as you can. Working smart is by far your best route to a simple and stressless move to Belgium.
We can only hope that the regional and local governments undertake considered action to both increase the availability of properties and manage rental rates for expats and locals alike, soon.
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