The property market in 2026: scenarios, trends and forecasts for the coming years

The property market has always been one of the sectors most sensitive to economic, social and financial changes. After years characterised by sharp fluctuations – between the pandemic, inflation and interest rate rises – operators and private individuals are now looking to the future.
2026 looks set to be a year of consolidation and redefinition of balances, with new opportunities but also choices to be made with greater awareness.

In this article, we analyse the main forecasts for the property market in 2026, to help those who want to buy, sell or invest to navigate the market with greater clarity.

The economic context: what will influence the market in 2026

Forecasts for the real estate sector cannot ignore the macroeconomic picture. Among the factors that will have a direct impact in 2026 are:

• Interest rates: following the upward trend, a gradual stabilisation is expected. This could encourage a slow recovery in demand for mortgages.
• More controlled inflation, with positive effects on household purchasing power.
• Investors will be more cautious, tending to favour high-quality properties that are well located and offer good prospects for returns.

The market in 2026 will therefore be less speculative and more focused on solidity.

Residential market: selective demand and focus on quality

In the residential sector, 2026 should confirm a trend that is already underway: demand is not disappearing, but becoming more selective.

The most sought-after properties will be:

• energy efficient,
• well connected to services,
• suitable for new living requirements (spaces for remote working, terraces, outdoor areas).

Obsolete or inefficient homes, on the other hand, will face longer selling times and greater pressure on prices. In many areas, moderate growth in values is expected, with more marked increases in areas with strong economic and infrastructural appeal.

Prices and sales: what to expect in 2026

Forecasts indicate that by 2026:

• Stable or slightly rising prices in the most dynamic cities and municipalities,
• greater balance between supply and demand,
• Sale times are longer on average than during boom periods, but more predictable.

It is therefore not a “stagnant” market, but rather a more mature and rational market, where correct valuations become decisive.

Real estate investments: targeted opportunities

For investors, 2026 could offer attractive opportunities, particularly in:

• properties to be redeveloped,
• long-term leases,
• areas undergoing development or urban regeneration.

Profitability will not be linked so much to rapid price growth as to the ability to choose the right property and enhance its value over time.

📍 The property market in Valtellina: local dynamics and prospects for 2026

In Valtellina and the province of Sondrio, the property market shows a mixed but interesting trend for 2026, with significant differences between areas of high tourist appeal and lesser-known centres. Across the province as a whole, average house prices have risen steadily in recent years, reflecting resilient demand despite the general economic climate.

However, values in the area vary significantly from municipality to municipality. In Morbegno, for example, house prices are rising slightly on an annual basis, while in smaller municipalities such as Montagna in Valtellina and Ponte in Valtellina, average prices are lower, offering more affordable purchasing opportunities.

In terms of tourism and high-end properties, locations such as Livigno and Bormio stand out for their prices, which are well above the provincial average, supported by robust demand, including international demand, for second homes and hospitality-related properties.

The Valtellina therefore presents a differentiated but stable market, with segments of strong interest – particularly linked to mountain tourism and the enhancement of prestigious properties – and other segments where the search for balance between supply and demand may create concrete opportunities for purchase or targeted investment in 2026.

Practical advice for those buying or selling in 2026

For buyers

• Carefully assess the sustainability of the mortgage
• Focus on efficient, well-located properties
• Think of the purchase as a medium- to long-term project

For sellers

• Set a realistic price in line with the market
• Take care of the presentation and documentation of the property
• Relying on a professional assessment

Conclusions: 2026 as a year of informed choices

The property market in 2026 will not be characterised by excesses, but by balance and selectivity. It will be a favourable year for those who know how to navigate it with accurate information, realistic expectations and the support of industry professionals.

In a constantly evolving environment, understanding trends and anticipating changes becomes the real added value for approaching the market with confidence and competence.

Interview with Cristian Porta, Regional Delegate for FIAIP Tourism, Hospitality and Real Estate Investments: https://youtu.be/Zf7x3jFaaQU