China accelerates existing housing acquisition to boost affordable and multi-purpose supply

China's 2026 government work report requires exploring multiple channels to activate existing housing, encouraging the acquisition of existing properties, especially for use as affordable housing. Cities including Shenzhen, Guangzhou, Wuhan, Tianjin, Yangzhou, and Suzhou have rolled out a series of new policies, making the acquisition of existing housing a key focus.

On April 30, Tianjin designated "actively activating existing housing" as a top priority, directing districts to leverage national fiscal, financial, and other tools based on local conditions and prioritizing the acquisition of eligible housing for uses including rental- and sale-type affordable housing, resettlement housing, dormitories, talent housing, and more. Post-acquisition