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The number of building permits has jumped – signs of recovery are already visible in the housing market

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Illustration, magyarepitok.hu
According to the assessment of Mapei Kft., the latest statistical data already point to a clear turning point in the domestic housing market. While the number of completed homes still reflects the decisions made during the previous, more restrained investment period, the sharp increase in the number of building permits points to the beginning of a new cycle.

According to a recent flash report by the Hungarian Central Statistical Office (KSH), a total of 12,062 new homes were built in Hungary in 2025, which is 9.3 per cent less than the previous year's figure. At the same time, however, the number of building permits and simple notifications rose to 28,081, representing a 37 per cent increase compared to 2024.

According to the company, this significant expansion already reflects the stimulating effect of state subsidies for home purchases and renovations. These programmes are having a positive impact primarily on the private construction and home renovation market, which may also be reflected in construction volumes in the coming years.

„In recent years, permits have typically been issued for 8,000 to 10,000 homes per year, but now we are seeing several times that amount. This year, we expect at least double the number of flats to be launched,” said Szabolcs Stamler, sales manager at Mapei Kft..

Property developers are becoming active again

According to data from the Hungarian Central Statistical Office (KSH), 64 per cent of new homes were built by companies, which represents an increase compared to the previous year. According to the assessment of Mapei, this indicates that real estate development projects are picking up again: several major housing construction companies are planning to launch thousands of homes, especially in urban areas affected by the redevelopment of former industrial sites.

The company emphasises that, in addition to housing construction, the housing renovation market may also be on the rise. Both the subsidy environment and energy efficiency requirements may encourage private investment.

Stabilising, moderately expanding market environment

Mapei Kft. expects a stable market environment with moderate growth by 2026, with an estimated 3–3.5 per cent growth in the sector. These expectations are based on subsidies launched in 2025 and a significant increase in the number of building permits, the impact of which may also be reflected in construction volumes in 2026–2027.

However, the company does not expect a rapid recovery; the current market structure indicates a gradual stabilisation.

„The main challenge today is that costs are rising amid stagnant turnover, while competition is pushing prices down, and businesses are unable to fully pass on their cost increases in their prices. This leads to narrowing profit margins and declining profits. However, subsidies and gradually strengthening demand could lay the foundation for a more stable growth trajectory,” said Szabolcs Stamler, sales manager at Mapei Kft..

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