The number of real estate agencies in France reaches a new record in 2021: figures and data
Figures from Caisse nationale des Urssaf show that the number of real estate agencies in France increased by 11.3% between 2019 and 2021, reaching a new record of 25,649 agencies. This article explores the reasons for this growth, as well as the regulations put in place to govern the sector.
Estate agencies are an important part of the real estate industry in France, and their numbers have seen a steady increase in recent years. According to the most recent data from the Caisse nationale des Urssaf and an article published in Le Parisien on March 13, 2023, there were 25,649 real estate agencies in France in 2021, employing 82,500 employees. This represents an increase of 11.3% compared to 2019.
The explosion of real estate agencies in France is not uniform across the country. Figures show that Ile-de-France is the most densely populated region in terms of real estate agencies, with 6,034 agencies in 2021, including 40% in Paris alone (2,448). In the capital, the number of real estate agencies has increased by more than 25% over the past 15 years, a growth of 8% between 2019 and 2021. These figures mean there are almost twice as many agencies real estate than bakeries in the city.
The increase in the number of real estate agencies in France can be attributed to several factors. First of all, the real estate market is constantly evolving, and real estate agencies play a key role in the sale, purchase and rental of real estate. In addition, historically low interest rates have encouraged many French people to invest in real estate, which has contributed to the growth of the market.
However, the increase in the number of real estate agencies has also raised concerns about unfair competition. Some real estate professionals believe that the market has become overloaded, with too many real estate agencies setting up without necessarily having all the skills necessary to practice this profession. This situation has led to increased pressure on commissions, as well as sometimes questionable business practices.
In response to this situation, several measures have been proposed to regulate the real estate sector in France. In 2020, the government adopted the Elan law, which aimed to simplify construction procedures, improve housing accessibility, and combat illegal practices by real estate agencies. This law provides in particular for the creation of a professional card for real estate agents, as well as the establishment of compulsory training for professionals.
In conclusion, the number of real estate agencies in France continues to increase, with greater density in large cities like Paris. This has raised concerns about unfair competition and abusive business practices, but steps have been taken to regulate the sector and protect consumers.
