FURTHER EXPLANATION · 2 MIN READ
Most Flemish buyers stay in Flanders
A new property barometer based on transactions completed in 2025 shows how local the Flemish housing market remains. Of all Flemish buyers, 96.5% chose property in Flanders. Only 3.5% bought in another region. This describes registered transactions; it is not a forecast for your own purchase and does not indicate that a property outside your familiar region is legally better or worse.
The differences within Flanders are striking. In West Flanders, 91.2% of buyers purchased in their own province. Buyers from Flemish Brabant moved more often: 64.5% stayed within the province. For apartments in Flemish Brabant the figure was 45%, compared with 73% for houses. The type of home and the buyer's specific life situation therefore also influence how far people search.
Brussels house buyers cross regional borders more often
Brussels buyers were more mobile than Flemish and Walloon buyers. Of them, 56.4% bought in Brussels, 28% in Flanders and 15% in Wallonia. Among Brussels buyers purchasing a house, 43% chose Flanders, 25% Wallonia and 32% Brussels. For apartments, 86% stayed in the Brussels Region.
These figures help frame your search area, but they say nothing about the condition of a particular home, your financing or the tax conditions in your case. A purchase across a regional border may involve different certificates, grants, renovation obligations or tax rules. Have those consequences checked before committing yourself.
A recognisable example
Suppose a couple in Brussels is looking for a house. A home in Flemish Brabant offers more space, but changes their commute and involves Flemish rules on sales tax, energy and property documents. The question is therefore not only where the home appears cheaper. The total purchase cost, mobility, necessary works and the timing of the financing also matter.
For an apartment, the same assessment may turn out differently. Proximity to work and public transport may weigh more heavily, while co-ownership, common charges and planned works require additional investigation. Market figures are therefore a starting point for questions, not the answer to choosing one property.
What should you do before making an offer?
Start by making a short comparison of three things: your daily travel, the total purchase and renovation costs, and the documents available for the property. Also note which conditions precedent you need, for example for your loan. An offer can be legally binding, so do not wait until the sale agreement to discuss conditions.
Notariaat Wellens can review the draft offer or sale agreement, the applicable sales tax, the required certificates and the ownership situation with you in advance. This links your chosen region to a legally and financially feasible purchase. Want to know more? Discuss your specific plans with the office in good time.