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A study commissioned by the union-affiliated Hans Böckler Foundation examines the effects of socializing housing stock in Berlin.
According to a study, socializing large housing stock would not solve the housing shortage in Berlin. This requires new construction on a large scale, according to a study commissioned by the union-affiliated Hans Böckler Foundation. Nevertheless, socialization could make sense as a “complementary element” in order to slow down the ever-increasing rents in the capital.
In Berlin, rents are rising sharply while the socialization of housing groups is being discussed. According to an analysis, however, it is not so much a lack of space as a lack of rapid implementation of construction measures and efficient use.
In the first half of the year, sales figures in Hamburg's upscale residential areas remained stable, but sales fell by 14.3 percent. Buyers examine prices and quality more closely. Houses in the premium segment, on the other hand, were more robust.

In Germany, more and more cities and municipalities are taking action against owners who leave apartments unused, especially in tight housing markets such as Berlin, Munich and Hamburg. Fines of up to 500,000 euros per residential unit can be imposed if living space is empty for more than three to four months. Owners can avoid legal disputes by documenting vacancies and providing evidence of understandable reasons such as renovation, sale or personal hardship.

Climate change is driving up the costs of natural disasters in Germany to 2.4 billion euros annually. Experts advise owners to take protective measures such as roof insulation, roller shutters or backflow protection to maintain property value and minimize damage.
Anna Schulte and her family looked for a larger apartment to buy in Cologne for five years. She discovered that real estate prices have risen sharply and affordable housing is difficult to find.

Marseille is transforming from a port city that is considered a crime scene into a sought-after place to live. Parisians and international investors in particular are driving up real estate prices while the city struggles with gentrification, stricter Airbnb rules and dilapidated buildings.