Existing properties: recovery slows with 949.000 sales by the end of May 2026

The existing home market in France continues its recovery, but is showing signs of slowing down. As of the end of May 2026, 949.000 transactions had been recorded cumulatively over the past twelve months, representing a year-on-year increase of 5,7%.

This increase remains significant, but it is half as rapid as at the beginning of the year. At the end of February 2026, the number of sales was still up 11,4% year-on-year, according to the economic report from the Notaries of France.

Buyers are present, but more hesitant.

Demand for housing remains strong, but projects are taking longer to materialize. In an uncertain economic environment marked by declining consumer confidence, buyers are more cautious and are negotiating prices more aggressively.

Their search criteria combine housing quality, energy efficiency, functionality, and budget control. This selectivity contributes to longer decision-making times and limits price increases.

For the Notaries of France, the market is thus gradually approaching a point of equilibrium. This remains fragile, however, and depends in particular on maintaining prices that are compatible with household purchasing power.

Prices for existing homes remained almost stable in the first quarter

In the first quarter of 2026, prices for existing homes rose by 0,2% year-on-year in metropolitan France. This limited increase confirms the market's stabilization after the period of decline observed in previous years.

The trend is particularly supported by the Île-de-France region, where prices have risen by 0,6% year-on-year. However, this national stability masks different situations depending on the region and the type of property.

In this context, negotiation allows sellers' expectations to be aligned with buyers' financial capabilities. It helps maintain the fluidity of transactions, whereas a price increase that is too rapid could hinder the recovery.

The new housing market continues to face a supply shortage.

The situation remains more difficult in the new housing sector. The Notaries of France note the persistence of structural difficulties and an insufficient level of construction starts to meet household needs.

The weakness of the construction sector mechanically reinforces the role of older housing stock in residential pathways. This stock must absorb a growing share of demand, both for purchase and rental.

Maintaining the balance will therefore also depend on the ability of public policies to restore visibility to the new construction sector and to support housing production adapted to the needs of the territories.

An analysis of 35 seaside resorts

In its summer edition, the economic outlook report also includes a section on the real estate market in seaside resorts. The study focuses on apartments and houses in 35 municipalities along the coast of metropolitan France, based on transactions observed up to the end of March 2026.

The Notaries of France emphasize the diversity of these markets. Some resorts are primarily composed of second homes, while others cater more to the housing needs of permanent residents. These differences translate into price levels and sales dynamics specific to each area.

Real estate market report no. 72 of July 2026 presents all national results, price maps and detailed analysis of seaside resorts.

Image illustrating the article via Depositphotos.com.