Almost two thirds of UK built environment professionals remain positive about the outlook for the market despite the Middle East conflict, geopolitical and global economic uncertainties, according to the 2026 UKREiiF Insights Report.
The report, which is based on a survey by Holistic Insight of 9,626 professionals attending the UK real estate conference taking place in Leeds this week, found positive sentiment stood at 63.1% – a 6.4 percentage points fall on last year. Negative sentiment increased from 6.5% to 9.5% and neutral from 24% to 27.4%.
Development and funding organisations are the least positive, at 57.7%, falling from 69.4% in 2025. However, in contrast, development and investment ambitions remain strong, with nearly two-thirds (63.9%) expecting to increase activity over the next 12 months.
Nathan Spencer, managing director of UKREiiF, said: “Positivity has reduced, perhaps unsurprisingly given the current climate, but the market remains committed. From the research and in-depth interviews conducted by Holistic Insight, there appears to be more caution, discipline and rigour in selecting opportunities, alongside an ambition and determination to deliver. The fact that our attendance numbers have also increased by circa 1,000 year on year shows a drive to support momentum too. In a year shaped by geopolitical uncertainty and viability pressures, this level of resilience really stands out.”
Nicola Hanser, director of Holistic Insight, added: “Overall, the market appears to be resilient in the face of adversity. While confidence has reduced and conditions are more demanding, the intent to act remains stronger than sentiment alone might suggest. The insights show an industry holding firm despite uncertainty.”
