Single Sells, Single Sells: Solo Buyers Are Driving the Real Estate Market

Solo, independent, and in control of your own choices. The Belgian real estate market is increasingly becoming a playground for singles. More than half of first-time homebuyers are now purchasing their first home on their own. In major cities, nearly 7 out of 10 are taking the plunge solo. Is this the end of the cliché of the first-time homebuyer looking for a home with a partner? Perhaps. 

The Rise of Solo Buyers 

The figures speak for themselves. A joint study by Belfius Bank and Immoweb shows that 54 percent of home loans for first homes go to single people. Antwerp leads the way with 69 percent, followed by Brussels and Liège, each with 67 percent. Ghent, Mechelen, Ostend, Hasselt, and Leuven also show a clear preference among singles for their first home. Outside the major cities, the share is around 50 percent, but the picture is clear: the solo buyer is here to stay. 

Why this trend? The number of single-person households has been rising for years, and more and more people are consciously choosing independence. With a solid income, ambition, and clear housing preferences, they’re confident enough to take the plunge on their own.

Equity and smart choices

Singles face a challenge: they often have only one income, whereas couples have two to pay off the mortgage. That’s why a larger down payment is necessary. Only 20 percent of solo buyers borrow more than 90 percent of the purchase price. In Flanders and Brussels, it is often impossible to buy a home without savings, whereas in Wallonia, 33 percent of solo buyers are able to do so.

But the higher median income of singles—2,500 euros compared to 2,300 euros for couples—helps them make ends meet. The result? On average, singles buy less expensive homes, often apartments, with a median price of 240,000 euros, compared to 338,000 euros for couples.

What should you look out for as a solo buyer?

Are you single and dreaming of buying your first home? Now is the time to seize the opportunity. Stick to a realistic budget, make sure you have a substantial down payment, and be flexible about the type of home and location. Apartments in major cities are in high demand, but smaller cities and suburbs also offer attractive alternatives.

With the right strategy and preparation, a solo buyer can be just as successful in buying their first home as a couple. The market is changing, and solo buyers are seizing these opportunities with both hands.

The conclusion is clear: being single is no longer a barrier in the real estate market. Singles are proving that with focus, financial discipline, and a touch of boldness, you can easily buy your first home on your own. The housing market is changing, and solo buyers are driving that evolution.