Home sales in Catalonia post largest drop in two years

The number of home sales in Catalonia recorded their sharpest decline in two years in January, dropping 10.3% compared with the same month last year, according to figures released Thursday by the Notarial College of Catalonia. 

A total of 7,743 transactions were authorized during the first month of 2026, down from more than 8,600 a year earlier.  

Despite the slowdown in activity, prices continued to rise, with the average cost reaching €2,474 per square metre, up 10.9% compared to January 2025.

The number of home purchase loans increased by 2.5% to 5,003, representing 19% of all mortgages signed across Spain.

Raquel Iglesias, vice-dean of the Notarial College of Catalonia, said the latest figures point to "a moderation in the growth of mortgage loans for home purchases, after more than a year and a half of non-stop increases."

She added that the drop in sales suggests "a certain slowdown in real estate activity at the start of the year," even as prices continue to rise. 

By property type, apartment sales led the decline with a total of 6,176 flats sold in January, down 11.1% from a year earlier. Still, the average price rose 10.6% to €2,807 per square metre.

Sales of single-family homes also fell, though less sharply. Transactions dropped 7% to 1,566 units, while the average price climbed 8.4% year over year to €1,839 per square metre.