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Real estate agents reported a slow start to the year, with two-thirds saying they sold fewer properties than expected, but sentiment for the rest of 2026 has turned more optimistic. Nearly 60% expect a stronger year ahead, and only a small minority believe sales will decline versus last year, when roughly 130,000 residential properties changed hands nationwide.
The recovery is being supported by government housing programs such as the Home Start scheme for first-time buyers, particularly popular among buyers aged 25–35, as well as expect ations of stronger GDP growth and possible interest-rate cuts later in the year.
However, rising home prices in 2025 have pushed affordability limits, which could restrain demand, especially if support programs are tightened or geopolitical uncertainty increases.
Experts stress that location, property condition, and realistic pricing will remain critical, with well-located and fairly priced homes expected to perform best, while overpriced or lower-quality listings may struggle to attract buyers.
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