“ BOTH HOME SELLERS AND HOMEBUYERS SHOULD CONSIDER THE ‘FIRST MOVER ADVANTAGE’–BEING THE FIRST TO ACT DECISIVELY WHEN OPPORTUNITIES ARISE.
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A. Bradley Nelson, chief marketing officer, Sotheby’s International Realty
Header: Situated in one of the most prestigious neighborhoods in Antwerp, Belgium, this contemporary villa offers a harmony of light, space and architectural elegance.
Belgium Sotheby’s International Realty
A tale of two economies
The latest edition of our report provides insights into trends and developments that affect the global luxury real estate market. Outperforming traditional real estate in 2025, both in sales and increased value,1 we expect luxury real estate to continue that trajectory in 2026.
The report also reveals there are effectively two real estate markets—the luxury market and the general market—which perform differently. That phenomenon is seen not just in real estate but also in banking, finance and even the airline industry, where Delta Air Lines is focusing its growth in the premium sector, as reported by The Wall Street Journal in October 2025.2 The resilience of the luxury real estate market reflects a premium economic foundation that provides greater stability against volatility.
Our research also demonstrates that luxury property buyers are less constrained by geography and macroeconomic factors than other homebuyers. Sustained wealth creation through real estate and equity investments continues to be a key driver of global luxury markets. Some good news from 2025 that bodes well for the luxury real estate market in 2026 is that inventory levels have rebounded to where they were pre-pandemic. A balanced real estate market is healthier and more sustainable, with more options for homebuyers.
To respond to changing market conditions, both home sellers and homebuyers should consider the “first mover advantage”—being the first to act decisively when opportunities arise or shift. This is often seen in development projects that are the first to adjust their pricing. These projects often gain momentum and attract more offers, which snowballs into the development becoming the hottest in the market.
For home sellers, that means pricing realistically rather than opportunistically and considering the potential negative impact of carrying costs if they decide to wait a year or two to sell.
For homebuyers, the “first mover advantage” can mean acting quickly when a once-in-a-generation opportunity arises. In New York City’s West Village, a penthouse recently went into contract for US$87.5 million with Nikki Field of Sotheby’s International Realty – East Side Manhattan Brokerage representing the buyer. The residence is expected to close around early 2027 and will mark a record-setting deal for downtown Manhattan.3
Beyond market dynamics, this year’s report examines the broader forces shaping luxury real estate decisions. We explore how political and economic policies impact the upper end of residential real estate markets, the rising influence of cryptocurrency, fluctuating inventory in the U.S. and global markets, and how major global sporting events can create lasting impacts on the luxury housing markets in host cities when paired with thoughtful urban planning in the wider area.
Today’s wealthy homebuyers are also prioritizing safety and privacy in ways that are reshaping design, from advanced security systems to backup power generators that ensure uninterrupted comfort and protection.
We’re also seeing a meaningful shift toward multigenerational living among wealthy households. This trend is about more than a lifestyle—although clearly one major goal is spending time with loved ones. It is also about long-term estate planning and legacy building, a way homeowners can transfer some of their wealth during their lifetime by building or buying a home for their heirs.
The global perspective of the Sotheby’s International Realty brand’s network provides unique insight into these evolving trends and shifting priorities. Whether it’s luxury housing under construction in Utah or emerging developments in Dubai, the brand’s affiliated agents across these markets offer deep local expertise and comprehensive global knowledge. This worldwide reach enables homebuyers to make informed decisions—wherever their search takes them.
Ultimately, luxury real estate purchases are about much more than a financial investment. They are lifestyle-driven choices shaped by the amenities and experiences in any given location that offer the relaxation, stimulation or comfort that wealthy homebuyers seek both for themselves and for their families.
Summary:
The 2026 Luxury Outlook Report from Sotheby’s International Realty offers a comprehensive look at trends and key drivers in the global luxury real estate market heading into 2026. The report finds that luxury homes continue to outperform the broader housing market, supported by sustained wealth creation and high-end demand. A major factor shaping the luxury segment is generational wealth transfer, with an estimated $6 trillion passed on in 2025 that is driving interest in upscale properties. Another notable trend is a 44 % surge in foreign buyer activity in the U.S., highlighting growing global interest in luxury real estate. The report also notes that luxury home price thresholds are rising — with U.S. luxury properties typically starting around $1.3 million — and inventory of million-dollar homes has returned to near pre-pandemic levels, offering a healthier market balance. Additional insights include the increasing influence of crypto in luxury purchases, rising importance of security and wellness features, and strong interest in multigenerational living and branded residences. Overall, the outlook for luxury real estate in 2026 remains positive, with robust international demand and strategic opportunities for both buyers and sellers.
Reference URL:
📌 2026 Luxury Outlook Report – Sotheby’s International Realty
👉 https://www.sothebysrealty.com/luxuryoutlook/2026-luxury-outlook-report/welcome
