Mortgage Demand Drops Sharply in August Despite Annual Growth
Poland's mortgage market cooled in August 2026, with applications falling 14% from July's record highs, though the value of inquiries remained 9.3% above August 2025. Average loan requests also declined from July's peak, signaling buyer caution.
Mortgage demand in Poland experienced a pronounced seasonal slowdown in August 2026, according to data from the Credit Information Bureau (BIK) released today. While the total value of mortgage enquiries was still 9.3% higher year-on-year, the number of applicants fell sharply—dropping 14.4% compared to July—and the average requested loan amount declined from the record level set just one month earlier.
The working-day-adjusted value of mortgage enquiries reached PLN 525,700 on average, up 7.2% from August 2025 but down 2.4% from July's peak. The number of borrowers applying was 7% higher than a year earlier but substantially lower than the previous month. BIK analysts expect annual growth rates to moderate in coming months as year-on-year comparisons become tougher against the stronger second half of 2025.
What This Means for Expat Buyers
For foreigners looking to buy property in Poland, this signals a cooling of the frantic summer rush. Sellers and developers may become more flexible on price as activity subsides into autumn. However, mortgage rates—currently 7.2–7.8% with WIBOR 3-month benchmarks around 5.7%—remain elevated compared to 2020–2021. Foreign buyers should note that banks have tightened lending criteria since 2022; the available lender pool for non-EU non-residents is narrower now than pre-pandemic. If you are considering a purchase, engage a qualified Polish mortgage broker with non-resident experience early, and be prepared for extensive income documentation and higher down-payment requirements (30–40%). Rents continue to stabilize with annual growth expected in the 4–7% range nationally through 2027.
Sources
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