Property transactions are taking longer and longer, according to a report released by data provider Drooms. Among the key trends expected to drive the European commercial real estate market in 2025, the report also highlights the increasing significance of ESG criteria and the ongoing internationalization of the industry.
Property transactions are taking longer and longer
One of the most notable trends in 2024 is the continued increase in transaction times across Europe. On average, real estate transactions now take 363 days—23 days longer than in 2023. The slowdown is largely attributed to market uncertainties and complex regulatory requirements, which have significantly affected transaction efficiency.
- Germany saw a rise in average transaction time to 405 days, an increase from 391 days in 2023.
- The UK faces even greater delays, with transaction times soaring to 499 days, far exceeding the European average.
- Switzerland, in contrast, showed improvement, reducing transaction times to 294 days, indicating positive regulatory and market adaptations.
Survey findings reinforce this trend, with 54% of experts reporting longer transactions, and 34% observing an increase of over 20% in duration.
The Drooms Real Estate Trends Report analyses in detail all transactions processed via Drooms in 2024, supplemented by a survey of 81 property experts.
