Single and ready to buy: singles are taking over the real estate market

You’re single. You swipe left more often than right. A partner to settle down with? Non-existent. But… anyone who still thinks you need to be a couple to buy a house is stuck in a 2003 Netflix rom-com. You’re not alone in this. On the contrary: you’re part of an ever-growing group of solo homebuyers. Last year, 58% of apartments in Belgium were bought by singles. More than half! And houses? There, 38% of buyers went it alone. The new generation is doing it solo. Independent, confident, and with a clear mission: a place of their own, on their own terms. And honestly? We love it.

Looking for an apartment (partner optional)

Fednot’s figures speak volumes: singles have rediscovered the real estate market. Whereas the old mindset was “waiting for the right person,” the new one is “Why wait?” Apartments are the top choice: compact, affordable, and perfect for city living. In Wallonia, as many as 62% of apartments sold were purchased by single buyers. In Antwerp? 61%!

Young singles between the ages of 26 and 30 are the most active. They prioritize freedom, independence, and smart investments. Why keep renting when you can build equity?

A little house, a little garden, all to myself? Yes, please!

It’s not just the apartment market that’s being taken over. Homes are also increasingly ending up in the hands of single buyers. In 2024, 38% of single people bought a home, an increase of 2 percentage points compared to 2019. Singles are particularly bold in West Flanders—there, 40% of the homes sold had only one name on the deed.

Why? Singles buy thoughtfully and strategically. They look for lower prices, opt for compact homes, and focus on future appreciation. Some even buy a home as a smart stepping stone toward the next phase of their lives. Bonus: when they sell, they often make a nice profit.

Not a phase, but a trend

The traditional dream—getting married, buying a home together, growing old together—is getting a makeover. Today, more and more people are choosing stability and independence even before they settle down. The real estate market is closely following this trend. There is a growing supply of compact homes, smart apartments, and alternatives such as co-housing or group purchases. 

Why Now Is Your Time

Why are so many singles choosing to live on their own these days? Simple. Because the time is right. And you’re ready for it.

📉 Lower interest rates

Yes, mortgage rates have finally dropped again. What does that mean? Lower payments, more breathing room. And that means: a better chance that the bank will approve your loan, even if you’re doing it on your own.

🛋️ You decide

No debates about curtains, cats, or color schemes. You decide. Everything. From the ambiance to the sofa. No compromises. 100% you.

💰 Building wealth

Instead of pouring money into rent every month that you’ll never see again, invest in yourself. In your own place. And that feels both good and smart.

🏢 The market thinks along with you

Real estate developers are jumping on the solo bandwagon. More studios, compact apartments, and smart townhouses. In Antwerp, 61% of apartments are already going to single people. In Wallonia, the figure is as high as 62%. Solo living is the new normal.

👶 Young and ambitious? Go for it!

These days, it’s mainly singles between the ages of 26 and 30 who are taking the plunge. No waiting for a wedding dress or a Pinterest-perfect wedding. Just go for it. And trust us: you don’t have to start big. A studio apartment? Perfect. A townhouse? Great. It’s about your start, your story.

Ready to take matters into your own hands? Being single no longer means putting your housing plans on hold. You have the power to invest in your future right now. Whether you’re dreaming of a trendy city loft, a quiet cottage in the countryside, or a smart studio to rent out later: the real estate market is wide open.