Real Asset INSIGHT’s CEO Outlook 2026: Investor confidence strengthens as firms prepare to buy

Investor confidence in European real estate is strengthening, with most firms positioning as net buyers in 2026 as market sentiment improves, according to Real Asset INSIGHT’s CEO Outlook 2026 report.

The anonymous survey — conducted in December 2025 — among chief executive officers and other senior managers at 27 real estate companies, shows average market sentiment rising from six for 2025 to seven for 2026 on a ten-point scale. This points to a clear year-on-year improvement in outlook.

The more positive sentiment is reflected in investment intentions. Around 80% of firms plan to be net buyers of real estate assets this year, while around one in ten expect no overall change in activity.

The survey also captured responses from the heads of six industry associations. Among those who provided scores, average market sentiment rose from six in 2025 to almost seven in 2026, showing improving confidence among industry bodies representing real estate companies.

In directional terms, four associations expect their members’ real estate activity to increase in 2026, while two anticipate activity remaining broadly unchanged.

Taken together, the findings suggest that confidence is building across the sector, supported by stabilising pricing, improving financing conditions and a growing willingness among investors to deploy capital.

The results point to a shift away from a wait-and-see approach towards more active portfolio expansion, with firms increasingly prepared to re-enter the market after two years of subdued transaction volumes.

While respondents continue to flag macroeconomic, geopolitical and regulatory risks, the overall balance of sentiment indicates that many investors now see 2026 as a more favourable environment for selective acquisitions.

The full CEO Outlook Report brings together insights from 43 CEOs and senior executives and six industry associations across Europe, showing cautious optimism as yields improve, borrowing costs ease and occupier demand holds up, alongside continued warnings over uneven market conditions.

Contributors to the report point to improving pricing alignment between buyers and sellers, stronger income visibility and a gradual return of liquidity in core and core-plus segments, particularly in logistics, living and prime offices.

For full access to the CEO Outlook 2026 report, visit: