Market shows signs of stabilization

The French real estate market in the third quarter of 2026 is showing signs of stabilization, with an increase in supply and a slowdown in demand, according to the Bien'ici Real Estate Observatory. The study, based on data from over one million property listings on the portal, suggests the market is experiencing a growing imbalance between what is available and what buyers are seeking.

Buyer behavior changes

The traditional summer rebound in real estate activity occurred but was less pronounced than in 2025. Buyers are showing more caution, influenced by factors such as the school year, the upcoming presidential election, rising interest rates, and stabilized prices. This trend affects nearly the entire country, with real estate professionals noting that buyers now have more varied choices and stronger negotiation power.

Listing durations increase

Properties for sale remain visible on average 82 days on Bien'ici, one day more than in the third quarter of 2025. The average duration of property listings increased by seven days between spring and summer 2026. However, there are significant regional differences, with Île-de-France being an exception where commercialization periods tend to lengthen.

Price trends remain stable

The market shows relative price stability, with an average increase of 1% per square meter over a year. Apartment prices have risen by 0.7% to an average of 4,771 €/m², while house prices have decreased by 1% to 2,761 €/m². This reflects a trend of moving away from city centers toward more affordable options in the suburbs.

New developments see mixed demand

The supply of new development listings on Bien'ici increased by 6% year-on-year, but demand for new properties dropped by 21%. The average price per square meter displayed decreased by 6% nationally compared to the third quarter of 2025. Despite this adjustment, buyers have not returned to the market in significant numbers. The effects of the Jeanbrun recovery plan remain weak and below government expectations.

Rental market shows slight easing

On the rental market, supply increased by 2% year-on-year, while demand decreased by 23%, bringing a slight relaxation to a constrained market. However, the national rental supply remains twice as low as at the beginning of the decade. The decrease in demand is attributed to a growing gap between available properties and those sought, both in terms of property type and price. Average rents increased by 1%, driven by a higher proportion of furnished properties.

Energy efficiency improves

Energy-consuming homes, classified as F or G, represent 9% of property listings for sale, with a continued decline in their proportion. This presence varies by property type and region, with more than 12% of the stock in the north-east and Île-de-France being energy-consuming, compared to lower proportions in southern France.

Market struggles for balance

The Bien'ici Real Estate Observatory notes that the expected start of the real estate market during the summer of 2026 did not occur, with the market struggling to find balance between supply and demand. Buyers are constrained by limited budgets, especially due to the cost of credit and daily expenses, while maintaining strong expectations regarding thermal comfort, space, and location. Adjustments in prices, quality of appraisal, and support for sellers are crucial for professionals in the transaction.