Why invest in new real estate today?
Several trends are reinforcing the appeal of new properties over older ones:
- Legal and technical security: the ten-year warranty and associated protections reassure investors.
- Immediate energy performance: when older properties will be subject to mandatory renovations starting in 2033.
- High rental demand: modern properties that comply with current standards are more attractive to tenants.
- Higher rents: on average +14% to +20% compared to existing housing, depending on the type of property.
New real estate and rents: a measurable advantage
📊 The figures speak for themselves:
- New properties have significantly higher rents than older properties.
- Rental vacancies are virtually non-existent in this segment.
With rising construction costs (+33% in five years) and energy renovation requirements that will weigh on older properties, new-builds are the rational choice for anticipating market developments.
Beyond rental yield: thinking long term
A real estate investment cannot be measured solely in terms of immediate rental yield. Other factors must be taken into account:
- The average length of ownership of a property (approximately 13 years in Brussels).
- The actual costs incurred by the owner: co-ownership, renovations, upgrades to meet standards, improvements.
When comparing over this period, new real estate retains a significant profitability advantage, thanks to lower maintenance costs and better energy efficiency.
Conclusion: new-build properties are a sustainable solution
Against a backdrop of growing rental pressure, increased regulatory requirements and high renovation costs for older properties, new-build real estate is emerging as a safe haven and a strategic choice.
The combination of the reduced VAT rate of 6%, strong rental demand and the structural advantages of new-build properties confirms that this type of investment should occupy a central place in wealth management strategies in the years to come.
The question now is: will you make new-build properties a pillar of your real estate investment strategy in 2025?