Emilia-Romagna housing sector gains momentum: Bologna emerges as primary growth catalyst

The real estate sector in Emilia-Romagna is showing a steady recovery, with a growing emphasis on housing quality, energy efficiency, and long-term investment appeal. In this context, Bologna is solidifying its status as one of Italy's most dynamic markets, driven by infrastructure upgrades, extensive urban revitalization projects, and evolving housing demand patterns.

These insights are outlined in the latest edition of the Real Estate DATA HUB report, produced by the REMAX Italia research center in partnership with experts from RYZE and 24MAX.

The report highlights a gradual resurgence in real estate transactions in the region following a slowdown in the first half of 2025. Buyers now seek properties offering enhanced comfort, low operational costs, and sustainable value retention.

Preference for Three-bedroom Units with Increasing Interest in Spacious Dwellings

Three-bedroom units remain the favored housing type in Emilia-Romagna, constituting nearly half of all transactions at 48.4%.

However, there is a notably higher demand for larger properties compared to the national average. Four-bedroom units represent 21.9% of transactions, while housing with five or more rooms makes up 9.7% of the market, indicating a preference for permanent residency over investment.

Moreover, there is a growing focus on building energy efficiency, with the share of properties rated in lower energy classes (E, F, and G) decreasing from 78% in 2022 to 74% in 2025. This shift reflects increased interest in eco-friendly solutions, energy conservation, and reduced utility expenses.

Another positive trend is the reduction in the time properties spend on the market, with the average decreasing to 115 days by the end of 2025, marking the best result compared to late 2024.

Bologna Surpasses €3,500 per Square Meter Threshold

Bologna stands out as the regional leader in market activity, with the average residential real estate price surpassing €3,500 per square meter by mid-2025.

The price surge is driven by high demand and limited supply, particularly in sought-after city areas. Simultaneously, the time taken to sell a home has decreased to its lowest levels between 2022 and 2025.

The study notes a significant urban transformation in Bologna, with burgeoning interest in areas undergoing urban renewal and enhanced public transport development, alongside the traditionally prestigious central zones.

Districts like Bolognina, Navile, and Fiera are increasingly attractive due to improved transport connectivity, altering the perception of urban distances and elevating the appeal of once considered peripheral areas.

As highlighted by Dario Castiglia, REMAX Italia's CEO and founder, modern buyers seek not just a home but also convenience, time-saving, and improved quality of life, where infrastructure enhancements directly influence real estate values.

Shifting Demand Landscape

Experts observe a shift in buyer demographics, with a growing presence of highly skilled professionals, managers, and specialists relocating to Bologna for its economic prospects and urban quality, alongside the continued demand from students.

This trend fuels the demand for contemporary real estate with superior accessibility, high construction standards, and energy efficiency, making the market more discerning.

Outlook for 2026

Analysts predict favorable conditions for the Emilia-Romagna real estate market's continued growth in 2026, building on the trends of 2025.

Key success factors will include property quality, high energy efficiency ratings, prime location, proximity to transport links, services, and key economic hubs.

Consequently, the market is transitioning towards prioritizing property characteristics and their alignment with evolving buyer preferences over sheer quantity growth.