A strong start to 2026

The property market in Knokke-Heist got off to a particularly strong start in 2026, with more transactions and sustained demand for high-quality luxury properties. Despite geopolitical uncertainty and a more cautious approach amongst some buyers, market confidence remains solid. Find out why Knokke continues to have a resilient property market even in uncertain times, and what developments we expect for the rest of 2026.

A strong start to the year, despite geopolitical uncertainty

The first quarter of 2026 has got off to a particularly strong start for us. The number of transactions is significantly higher than in the same period last year. This can be partly attributed to the recent merger between Knokke Real Estate and Alex Dewulf, which has given us greater clout and a broader reach in the market. But just as important: underlying market confidence in Knokke remains remarkably solid.

Demand for high-quality holiday homes, particularly in the higher end of the market, remains strong. Buyers continue to make their moves, deals are being finalised, and there is still a clear sense of momentum. This confirms what we have long observed: Knokke is not a traditional property market, but a niche driven by specific fundamentals such as scarcity, international appeal and a strong family-oriented investment culture.

A world in flux: time for reflection

At the same time, we cannot ignore the broader context. The recent tensions in the Middle East are causing uncertainty on the financial markets and amongst business owners. In such periods, we traditionally see an initial instinct for caution.

Some prospective buyers are temporarily taking their foot off the accelerator. Not necessarily because their intention has disappeared, but because they first want to assess what the impact will be on:

• their professional activities
• interest rate trends
• general economic stability

This is reflected in longer decision-making processes and a more cautious attitude. A ‘wait-and-see’ phase, as we are also observing in other luxury holiday destinations.

A market that is less sensitive to interest rates

An additional factor that is often underestimated is the profile of buyers in the luxury segment. A significant proportion of transactions take place with limited or no financing. This makes this market less sensitive to fluctuations in interest rates than the traditional housing market. That does not mean that interest rate trends play no role, but it does mean that they are rarely the deciding factor. The decision to buy is more often driven by a long-term vision, wealth planning and quality of life.

Knokke remains structurally strong
Knokke’s strength lies in its constant factors. There will be no additional sea defences; prime locations are, by definition, scarce; demand is driven by international buyers; and supply remains high-quality and limited. This ensures that price corrections, if they occur at all, are generally limited and that the market recovers relatively quickly.

The first few months of 2026 confirm this picture. Despite geopolitical turbulence, activity remains strong. There is no sign of a standstill, but rather a market that is aware of the context and is responding to it intelligently.

Outlook: confidence with a touch of caution
For the remainder of 2026, we do not expect a negative market. Rather, we anticipate a market that is becoming more selective, where quality makes an even greater difference and where correct pricing is crucial. The ‘wait-and-see’ attitude will persist amongst some buyers for a while yet, but at the same time we see sufficient indications that the opportunities are at least as great as the threats. The combination of uncertainty and capital seeking safety may even have a supportive effect on the higher end of the market.

Easter as a symbol
Easter symbolises new life, renewal and hope. We recognise that same sentiment in the market today. Not as blind euphoria, but as an underlying confidence that endures, even in a world that is constantly in flux. Knokke has proven its resilience on numerous occasions in the past. Everything points to this continuing to be the case in 2026.

First and foremost, we wish you a lovely Easter holiday. We hope you’ll be able to spend a few days with friends or family in Knokke.