The Housing Emergency in Europe: a Crisis that Requires Immediate Solutions
In recent times, the housing emergency is intensifying, creating a sense of urgency and insecurity among many families and individuals. The causes are multiple: rising prices, shortage of available housing, and the delicate balance between supply and demand in the real estate market.
The Numbers of the Emergency in Europe
Data from the European Parliament confirms the severity of the situation: in less than 10 years, between 2015 and 2023, house prices in the EU increased by an average of 48%. The most significant increase was recorded in Hungary with an increase of 173%, while Finland recorded the most modest increase with only 5%.
Particularly alarming is the data regarding affordability: in 2023, for 10.6% of families in cities and 7% in European rural areas, housing costs exceeded 40% of disposable income, the threshold beyond which families are considered to face housing problems. In Greece, this percentage reaches 31% in cities.
A Social Emergency with Profound Repercussions
Recent analyses and reports highlight how this situation represents a true social crisis, with repercussions on the most vulnerable subjects. The shortage of affordable housing makes it even more difficult to find effective solutions, compromising family stability and community well-being.
The factors contributing to this price increase are multiple: higher construction costs, rising mortgage rates, a decrease in construction that has limited supply, and the increase in property purchases as investments to generate additional income.
The Commitment of European and National Organizations
The survey published by CEPI (European Confederation of Real Estate Professions), which represents 33 real estate associations throughout Europe, highlights the need for immediate interventions, focusing on innovative and sustainable tools, such as the reuse and recovery of existing properties, digitalization of the sector, and incentives for the development of new housing solutions.
The European Union is acknowledging the urgency of the issue: in 2021 the Parliament adopted a resolution calling on Member States to recognize adequate housing as a fundamental human right. In July 2024, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced that, for the first time, the EU will have a commissioner responsible for housing. In December 2024, Parliament approved the establishment of a special committee that will propose solutions on how the EU should address housing issues.
In this context, the commitment of FIAIP (Italian Federation of Professional Real Estate Agents) becomes even more important: the association is at the forefront in promoting policies and initiatives in favor of the housing emergency. FIAIP works to protect the rights of real estate agents and, through its network, aims to facilitate the most suitable solutions for everyone’s needs, supporting the market and contributing to creating a more equitable and accessible system.
Our Commitment for the Future
It is essential that all parties involved collaborate to address this crisis with responsibility and forward-thinking vision. As a real estate agency, we are committed to promoting constructive dialogue and offering advice on how to best intervene in this complex scenario, prioritizing solutions that can bring stability and security to families seeking a home.
European data shows us that more than two-thirds of Europeans live in families that own their home, with an average of 1.6 rooms per person and 2.3 people per family. However, 17% of Europeans live in houses that do not offer adequate space, while young Europeans leave their parents’ home on average at the age of 26.3 years, with significant variations among Member States.
For insights and updates on the housing emergency, follow our channels. Strong attention to market dynamics, investment opportunities, and initiatives aimed at countering this social emergency.
Sources: CEPI, FIAIP, European Parliament, Eurostat
Cover image: V114, large house, 390 sqm, easily divisible into three housing solutions
Housing Affordability Position Paper, published on 15/07/2025: CEPI
Intervention by FIAIP President, Gian Battista Baccarini, on TGCOM 24 on the need for a National Housing Plan:
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