French housing market stalls in first half 2026 as first‑time buyer activity weakens, despite parliamentary measures to boost home ownership
Executive summary: Transaction volumes in the French residential market have stagnated in the first half of 2026, mainly due to subdued activity among first‑time buyers. A prolonged slowdown could depress property prices, curb construction output, and weigh on bank lending, while the proposed parliamentary measures aim to counteract the downturn. Century 21 France, French first‑time home buyers, parliamentarians drafting housing‑access initiatives, mortgage lenders, and property developers. Legislative debates on housing aid may conclude with new subsidies by Q3 2026; if demand does not recover, lenders may tighten credit and developers could launch promotional incentives.
According to Century 21 France, transaction activity in the French residential market has flatlined during H1 2026, signalling a notable slowdown driven by weaker demand from first‑time buyers. Two parliamentary initiatives are currently under discussion to improve access to property ownership, though their impact remains uncertain. The stagnation reflects broader affordability pressures and could affect related sectors such as construction and mortgage lending if it persists.
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