In the European Union, social housing models directly influence the dynamics and stability of the real estate market and are key indicators of socio-economic stability. There are significant differences in the availability, affordability, and quality of social housing. Countries like Denmark and the Netherlands can boast advanced and inclusive social housing systems, while others struggle with inefficient bureaucracy and inadequate infrastructure. On the other hand, the real estate market shows a trend of rising prices, with major cities across Europe facing a shortage of apartments and speculative buying, worsening the housing crisis. While the real estate market impacts economic trends and investment priorities, social housing models are often a reflection of the social values and political decisions of each member state. This specialist paper relates to the analysis of socially affordable housing in the context of the Croatian real estate market, compared to European practices. It explores how different social housing models affect availability, prices, and the quality of housing within the European Union. With rising real estate prices and housing challenges becoming more pronounced, the need for affordable housing solutions has never been greater. Although social housing models vary among member states, the common goal is to provide affordable accommodation for those most in need, especially in the context of increasing global urbanization and demographic changes. This paper highlights the importance of understanding these dynamics for developing sustainable housing policies that will address pervasive challenges, ensuring that affordable housing remains a key pillar of social security within the European Union. This paper defines the concept of socially affordable housing and explores the real estate market, focusing on the Republic of Croatia compared to practices within the EU. It includes an analysis of the real estate market, the development of housing strategies in Croatia, and a presentation of socially affordable housing models in the EU, including history, lending, legislation, and national policies. It also clarifies the development of housing strategies and the application of socially affordable housing models in Croatia and selected European countries.