Roll up your sleeves, stay alert for new opportunities

It's still in the attic, in a box—a little plaque from my late grandfather, who was active on the stock exchange for many years. It reads: “No bell rings at the bottom of the market.” I’ve been thinking a lot about this lately. Because, like you, I didn’t hear a bell when we hit the low point in the real estate market this year. But I do know that we’re past that point.

Interest rates are dropping again, financial returns are recovering, and several uncertainties have cleared up. The Affordable Rental Housing Act, for example, may still spark debate, but the fact that it exists brings some calm. It provides clarity for investors.

At the same time, the fundamentals in the user market are very strong. Demand for affordable and sustainable housing remains high. Aging populations call for more and better healthcare real estate. And for suitable locations in the largest retail cities, international retailers are lining up: as landlords, we increasingly have the luxury of choosing from multiple candidates.

Bringing the investor and user markets together reveals a resilient market offering new opportunities for institutional investors—opportunities to achieve financial returns and make a social impact. The market for impactful investments is experiencing the fastest growth. And real estate is particularly well-suited for demonstrating that impact.

Is it all smooth sailing then? Certainly not. The challenges are too large and complex for that. If we are to accelerate housing construction, advance sustainable area development, and effectively tackle the sustainability of existing properties, we’ll need to put in serious effort.

This can only happen with a healthy investment climate—one in which corporations and institutional investors have the same opportunities, build strong partnerships, streamline lengthy objection procedures, and make the Netherlands attractive for foreign investors as well.

So, let’s roll up our sleeves and stay alert for new opportunities. My grandfather’s eyes would already be sparkling.

Wishing you a pleasant read,

Boris van der Gijp Co-Chairman, Director Investments, Achmea Real Estate