Luxury property is increasingly becoming a profession based on trust, networking and vision

In the world of luxury property, trust, a strong network and vision make all the difference. Discover the story and vision of Arnaud Dewulf and Anouska De Smul.

Question 1: Is Knokke still an exceptional market within the European property sector today?

Arnaud Dewulf

Absolutely. What is particularly striking today is that Knokke has come to occupy a very specific international category. It is a market that is geographically very limited, but where price levels are reached that are comparable to certain prime locations on the Côte d’Azur or in Marbella.

In recent years, we estimate that between five and ten transactions exceeding ten million euros have taken place in Knokke annually. That is exceptional for a seaside resort of this size. Few destinations in north-western Europe boast such a highly developed ultra-prime segment.

Truly exceptional properties — with a wide frontage, unobstructed views, spectacular terraces and an iconic location — are almost becoming collector’s items.

Anouska De Smul

Moreover, these buyers are exceptionally well-informed. They compare Knokke to Saint-Tropez, Cap Ferrat, Marbella or certain exclusive ski resorts. They are seeking a lifestyle, discretion, architectural quality and, above all, heritage security.

Today, Knokke offers precisely that rare combination of elegance, stability and scarcity.

Question 2: How do you see the market evolving in the coming years?

Arnaud Dewulf

The market is becoming more selective. For a long time, almost everything sold quickly. Today, quality makes a much greater difference.

We expect the ultra-prime segment to remain very resilient, as there are few comparable alternatives. On the other hand, mediocre or less well-positioned properties will have to be priced much more accurately.

Today’s buyer analyses everything: energy performance, architecture, natural light, orientation, standard of finish, resale value… We have entered a more mature market.

Anouska De Smul

Tastes are evolving too. We’re seeing a return to natural materials, warmer interiors and architecture that is less ostentatious but feels more timeless.

Understated luxury is becoming increasingly important. Clients are looking less for ostentation and more for balance, serenity and quality of life.

Question 3: Why did you decide to join forces?

Arnaud Dewulf

Because the profession is undergoing radical change.

These days, it is no longer enough for a luxury estate agent simply to ‘open doors’. Clients expect a much higher standard of advice, analysis and availability than in the past.

They want access to a wide range of properties, accurate information and genuine expertise in the micro-market. This requires a certain scale of operation.

That is one of the main reasons why we have brought our teams together since 1 January.

Anouska De Smul

We recognise that the future belongs to organisations that can combine multiple strengths:

• a high-quality portfolio,
• strong visibility,
• a highly personalised service,
• and a highly specialised team.

By pooling our expertise, we have grown to become one of the largest property agencies in Knokke, whilst retaining our very human and discreet approach.

Question 4: Will the profession of luxury estate agent continue to evolve?

Arnaud Dewulf

Very significantly.

I believe the sector will undergo a significant process of professionalisation. Large, well-structured agencies will gradually gain market share, as the profession becomes increasingly complex.

We are already investing heavily in roles that barely existed in the past: high-end marketing, data analysis, legal support, file management, digital communication, photography, storytelling…

The estate agent of tomorrow will be, all at once, a wealth management adviser, a marketer, a negotiator and a trusted confidant.

Anouska De Smul

Paradoxically, the human relationship becomes all the more important as the market becomes more digital.

In the ultra-luxury segment, clients seek discretion, intuition and finesse. Many major transactions now take place off-market, through relationships of trust built up over several years.

This profession is becoming less transactional and far more relationship-based.

Question 5: What still sets Knokke apart from other luxury destinations?

Arnaud Dewulf

Its scarcity.

You cannot create a new Zeedijk in Knokke. You cannot reinvent the Zoute. Supply is structurally limited.

And in a world where capital is increasingly seeking security and tangible assets, that scarcity becomes particularly valuable.

Anouska De Smul

Knokke also has something quite unique: a discreet elegance.

Luxury here is less ostentatious than elsewhere. It is a destination where people come to live, entertain family and enjoy the sea, golf, art, restaurants… There is a genuine culture of quality of life.

And that is particularly valuable today.