Discover the 5 key changes that will impact the real estate world in 2024.

With the imminent arrival of the new year, attention turns to legislative changes that will shape the real estate landscape in 2024. Disruptions affect not only property owners and buyers but also cohabitants, donors, and heirs.

We unveil five crucial modifications that will mark the upcoming year.

Since January 1, 2021, the 6% VAT reduction for the demolition and reconstruction of homes has been a significant support to the construction sector. In 2024, this measure becomes permanent, but with new conditions. Now, only individuals can benefit from this reduced rate, exclusively applicable to individual dwellings with a maximum area of 200 m².

In summary, to benefit from the reduced rate, certain conditions must be met:

• The demolition of an existing building must be followed by reconstruction. The new building does not necessarily have to be reconstructed in the same location as the old one, as long as it is on the same cadastral parcel.

• The reconstructed building must be exclusively or primarily intended for housing and must be actually inhabited by the builder or buyer for a minimum period of 5 years.

• Reconstructed buildings must offer a maximum habitable area of 200 m². Only individuals who demolish and rebuild a house are entitled to this reduced rate;

large housing projects with demolition and reconstruction by a real estate developer are no longer eligible for this reduced VAT rate.

Starting January 1, 2024, partners wishing to cohabit legally must appear in person before the civil registrar during the declaration and cessation of legal cohabitation. This modification aims to strengthen the process, eliminating the possibility for one partner to represent the couple. An exception is provided for the termination declaration, allowing a special and authentic proxy under certain circumstances.

In Brussels, modernized tax rules will come into effect on January 1, 2024, aiming to adapt to new family structures. De facto cohabitants will benefit from reduced rates based on the duration of their cohabitation, facilitating intergenerational transfers.

Tenants from next year, tenants in Brussels will have a significant advantage: the "right of preference." When the owner decides to sell a rented property, the tenant will have priority for purchase. This measure aims to promote homeownership for tenants invested in their residence.

Starting January 1, 2024, all residential buildings with at least two residential units in Flanders must have a separate PEB certificate for common areas. This new requirement aims to strengthen energy standards and ensure the sustainability of residential buildings.