FURTHER EXPLANATION · 2 MIN READ
What does the new barometer say?
Notaris.be published on 17 September 2026 the figures about the real estate market in the Ardennes. In the first half of 2026, the number of sales decreased by 1.5% compared to the same period in 2025. The median price for a house was 220,000 euros. Of the buyers, 16.6% came from Flanders. These are market data for a defined period, not an appraisal of a particular property.
A median is the middle price in an ordered series of sales: half lie below and half above. Location, condition, area and permitted use can make a big difference for a specific property. An attractive guideline price also does not indicate how much you will need in total. Taxes, deed costs, financing and possible renovations must be budgeted separately.
Second home or new main residence?
Since 1 January 2025, Wallonia applies under conditions a rate of 3% for the purchase of an own and sole home. The Walloon government describes an own home as a dwelling where the buyer establishes their main residence. A house used only for holidays does not meet that condition. For a second home, you may not simply count on the reduced rate; the normal rate is in principle 12.5%.
Other conditions also apply. For an existing home, the main residence must in principle be established within three years and then be maintained for three full years. Different establishment periods apply for building land. Already owning a home can be an obstacle, including provisions for timely sale of that previous property. Have the full situation examined per buyer, including real estate abroad.
A weekend house requires a separate budget
Suppose you continue living in Mortsel and buy a house in the Ardennes for weekends with the family. Your intention then is not to establish your main residence there. It would be incorrect to calculate the available budget as if the rate for an own and sole home automatically applies. A later wish to live there must also be tested against the conditions and deadlines, not only your plans.
Before making an offer, provide the address, sales information, your intended use and an overview of other properties. Note whether you intend to rent out, renovate or move permanently. Notariaat Wellens helps evaluate the purchase conditions and costs and organises the necessary real estate information. Ask for advice before entering into a binding agreement, so that price, purpose and arrangements align.