Hasselt, the capital of Limburg province, has emerged as a dynamic urban center balancing historical charm with modern development. This report examines the apartment market through the lenses of environmental quality, accessibility, socio-demographics, competition, real estate dynamics, and future opportunities.

Environment and facilities

Green spaces and sustainable design

Hasselt prioritizes eco-friendly urban planning. The oHase project (2012) transformed a former industrial zone into a car-free residential area with parks, water features, and communal squares, fostering a “village-in-the-city” atmosphere. Similarly, Recore—a redevelopment of a former furniture factory site—integrates stacked office buildings, green corridors, and rainwater management systems, reducing paved surfaces from 94% to 73%. New projects like Rongese Park emphasize green courtyards and energy-efficient designs, with solar panels and heat pumps standard in many units.

Community-centric amenities

Mixed-use developments are prevalent. Kapermolenpark combines student housing, a swimming pool, and commercial spaces, while Cornu blends apartments, townhouses, and retail near the Groene Boulevard. Child-friendly facilities, such as daycare centers in oHase, and sports infrastructure in Recore, cater to families and professionals.

Accessibility and mobility

Public transport and cycling infrastructure

Hasselt’s zero-fare bus system (1997–2013) laid the foundation for robust public transit. Though fares were reintroduced, discounted passes (e.g., campuspas at €20/year for students) ensure affordability. The city’s Fietspunt network provides bike rentals and secure parking, with dedicated lanes connecting key areas like the Recore business park.

Proximity to economic hubs

Apartments near the Groene Boulevard and Sint-Truidersteenweg offer quick access to highways (E313) and downtown. The Corda Campus tech hub and UHasselt University drive demand for housing in adjacent neighborhoods.

Real estate investments and economic growth

Market trends and price appreciation

Hasselt’s real estate market shows resilience:

• Average price per m²: €2,397 (all property types).

• Eco-friendly homes: +6% projected growth by 2025 due to sustainability mandates.

• Luxury segments: Streets like Guido Gezellestraat command €3,153/m², while budget options in Egelstraat average €1,763/m².

Public private partnerships

The Hasselt Woonmodel collaborates with developers and banks to offer discounted homes for middle-income buyers, addressing gaps between social housing and private markets. Projects like Godskespark use water-permeable pavements and rainwater recycling, aligning with municipal green policies.

Socio-demographic profile

Population dynamics

• Poplulation: 80,674 (2024), up from 66,094 in 1990.

• Education: 45.4% highly educated (50% women vs. 40.8% men).

• Employment: Unemployment at 5.1% (2023), with labor demand rising in tech and healthcare.

Household composition

• Median age: ~42 years (estimated).

• Foreign-born residents: ~10%, with Turkish and Italian communities in historic mining areas.

• Renters vs owners: 35% renters, driven by students and young professionals.

Competition analysis

Key developments and USPs

• VAT reductions: New builds often qualify for 6% VAT (vs. 21%), boosting affordability.

• Pre-sales: Projects like Havenue report 70% occupancy pre-completion due to proximity to transit hubs.

Real estate supply and demand

Current inventory

• Rental listings: 119 available units (February 2025), with 4 new additions daily.

• New constructions: 20% of supply; emphasis on 1–3 bedroom units (55–120 m²).

Demand drivers

• Students: 15% of renters seek shared apartments near UHasselt.

• Expats: Prefer furnished units in Kapermolenpark and Cornu.

Target groups and price levels

• Deposit cap: 2 months’ rent, excluding charges.

• Lease terms: Minimum 3 years, with anti-eviction protections for tenants.

Rental prices

• 1-bedroom: €870–€1,200/month.

• Luxuary penthouse: €2,500+/month.

Construction trends

1. Sustainability: Solar panels, heat pumps, and green roofs (e.g., Recore).

2. Adaptive reuse: Former industrial sites converted into mixed-use hubs (e.g., Stokerij Ateliers).

3. Vertical living: Stacked apartments in Bree & Breughel maximize density without compromising light.

Top streets for apartment development

1. Guffenslaan (€3,079/m²) – Central, high-demand.

2. Maastrichterstraat (€3,036/m²) – Proximity to retail.

3. Sint-truidersteenweg – Major artery with new projects.

Recommendations

1. Expand affordable housing: Leverage the Hasselt Woonmodel to incentivize mid-income units.

2. Enhance mobility: Invest in bike lanes connecting Recore and Corda Campus.

3. Target niche markets: Develop senior-friendly complexes with healthcare access.

4. Streamline permits: Accelerate approvals for sustainable projects to meet 2025 eco-targets.

Hasselt’s apartment market thrives on sustainability, strategic location, and demographic diversity. By aligning development with evolving needs, the city can maintain its appeal as a livable, forward-thinking urban hub.