The benchmark index for consumer loans (IRCC) will decrease to 5.67% in the first quarter of 2026, similar to early 2025 levels. Fixed interest rates for mortgages will also drop to an average of about 5.55%, down from 5.70% in the last quarter of this year. The second quarter could bring further decreases, with IRCC potentially reaching 5.58%.

The 5.55% level will be the third lowest in four years, while the variable rate of 8.17% (IRCC plus 2.5%) will be the fourth lowest since early 2023. 2025 showed stability in mortgage rates, with fixed rates between 5.45% and 5.70% throughout the year.

"2025 will set new records for mortgage loan volumes in Romania. 2026 is set to be at least as good a year, barring negative macroeconomic events. The most important factor will be inflation evolution, which determines loan interest rates," said Alexandru Radulescu, Managing Partner at SVN Romania Credit & Financial Solutions.

Romania will likely set a new record for mortgage loans in 2025, with €9.2 billion granted in the first 10 months, up 26% year-on-year according to central bank data. However, home sales decreased 2.7% nationally and 5.7% in the Bucharest-Ilfov region during the same period.