The real estate sector in Spain faces 2026 with a new maturity, a more measured pace, and more selective demand. But far from cooling down, the residential market, and especially the prime segment, is preparing for a year marked by stability, product quality, and a consolidation of rising prices.
At Aproperties, where we closely monitor the evolution of demand in cities like Barcelona, Madrid, Valencia, and Mallorca, we observe profound transformations in the habits of both buyers and renters. And 2026 will be the year that confirms many of these trends.
A more stable, yet demanding, sales market
If anything will define the sales market in 2026, it will be stability. After years of sharp increases, demand will remain solid, albeit with more measured growth. Today's buyer has changed: they seek homes with character, in unique locations, with architectural quality and impeccable traceability.
The reason is clear:
- The scarcity of well-located new construction continues to be a barrier for those seeking exclusive properties.
- And rising rents are pushing many people to consider buying sooner than expected.
Those who can't yet buy remain in a kind of "latent demand," accumulating while waiting for an opportunity. All of this sustains an active, dynamic market, highly focused on the real value of each property.
At Aproperties, we've been warning for some time about the imbalance between supply and demand in prime locations, and that's why we're strengthening our acquisition of premium properties in the main cities where we operate. This work will be key to supporting the market in its transition to a more mature stage.
Housing prices in 2026: moderate but continuous growth
The latest data from the Ministry of Housing confirms that the average price of privately owned housing in 2025 grew by 10.4% year-on-year, reaching levels not seen since 2008. A clear warning of the structural pressure on the market.
What will happen in 2026?
Prices will continue to rise, but at a more moderate pace. Even so, in the high-end segment—where supply is extremely limited—we don't anticipate any corrections. The combination of international demand, scarce properties, and still-high construction costs will continue to push prices upward.
2026 will be a year of premium consolidation: location, architectural quality, and the uniqueness of each property will be more crucial than ever.
A strained rental market… but in the midst of urban expansion
If 2026 were a map, it would show a rental market divided into two speeds:
- In the most sought-after neighborhoods, the pressure will continue to increase.
- In the outskirts of major cities, we will see new developments that will provide some relief.
Rental demand will continue to grow, driven by young professionals, urban families, and international residents seeking flexibility without sacrificing a good quality of life. At the same time, supply is not growing at the same rate, which explains the strong pressure on prices.
However, cities are expanding their sphere of influence. New, revitalized neighborhoods, improved public transportation, and more sustainable residential developments are opening up previously unimaginable opportunities. For many renters, this will be a way to access modern and efficient housing without leaving the urban heart of the city.
Rental Prices in 2026: More Increases, but More Moderate
Rental prices will continue to rise, although at a slower pace than in 2025. Even so, the main challenge will remain the same:
The insecurity many landlords feel when putting their properties on the market.
Concerns such as non-payment, changing regulations, and complex processes are reducing the available stock, especially in more affordable housing. The result: less supply and higher prices.
At Aproperties, we work every day to improve this situation, offering landlords a comprehensive management service that provides security, professionalism, and support. The more confident a landlord feels, the more likely they are to put their property up for rent, something essential for balancing the market.
2026 will be the year of quality, location, and trust.
The Spanish real estate market enters 2026 with clear challenges, but also with great opportunities. Demand remains strong, buyers are more aware of what they want, and the luxury segment maintains a dynamism that is hard to match.
At Aproperties, we continue to be committed to supporting our clients in such important decisions as buying or renting a home, providing experience, strategic vision, and in-depth knowledge of the prime market in Spain.