After a period of adjustments, Romania's property market enters 2026 with increased confidence from Romanian investors. These have become a key factor in supporting market liquidity and stability, showing growing interest in income-generating assets, according to a report by CBRE Romania.

European investors continue to lead commercial real estate investment across the continent, accounting for 48% of activity in Q1 2026, according to BNP Paribas Real Estate data. American investors follow with 31%, while Asia Pacific investors represent just 7% and Middle Eastern investors 2%.

Romania's hotel industry recorded a 16% increase in turnover in 2025, reaching €2.2 billion, according to a Crosspoint Real Estate report, but the drivers behind this growth signal a structural shift. The advance is driven primarily by rate increases and the upscale segment, while overall demand has shown the first signs of softening.

Leasing transactions for modern office space in Bucharest increased by 14% in Q1 2026 compared to the same period last year, while new demand rose by 24%. However, the market remains below pre-pandemic levels, according to Colliers data.

NEPI Rockcastle said its Q1 net rental and related income (NOI) reached €157.7 million, up 3.4% versus Q1 2025. Property NOI increased 3.2% to €155.4 million, while net revenue from energy activities rose to €2.3 million, reflecting the scaling of the group's renewable energy platform.

Industrial developer CTP has signed an agreement with Leroy Merlin Romania to expand its regional distribution centre at CTPark Bucharest West to 48,500 sqm.

Romania's retail market experienced a challenging Q1 2026, according to a report by Cushman & Wakefield Echinox. While macroeconomic indicators reflect a period of adjustment, the high street segment and medium-term development pipeline remain robust.

Speedwell and Strabag have signed a construction contract for the development of Queens District, a mixed-use project in northern Bucharest. Strabag will serve as general contractor for the office and residential buildings and will relocate its Bucharest HQ to the project under a long-term lease agreement.

Administrative costs for modern office buildings in Romania are set to rise by approximately 10% in 2026 compared to last year, according to Colliers. The increases stem from higher property taxes, inflation and rising wages, with utility costs excluded as these are typically billed separately.

Business leaders from finance, energy, technology, real estate and professional services will gather in Bucharest next week to discuss how companies can navigate economic uncertainty, technological disruption and shifting market dynamics. Bucharest Business Forum 2026 brings together senior executives, investors and decision-makers for an afternoon focused on leadership, transformation and long-term growth opportunities.