Germany’s Realtors Push for Cheaper Housing With New Legal Standard
German real estate associations, including the Federal Association of German Housing and Real Estate Companies (GdW), are advocating for a new legal standard to reduce construction costs. The proposal, spearheaded by the GdW, introduces a 'cost-optimised basic housing standard'. Industry leaders, such as realtors and house builders, argue that current government plans are too slow and lack clarity.
The GdW, representing approximately 3,000 housing companies managing six million flats, is coordinating the draft with other industry groups. Partners include VdW Südwest and a coalition of over 30 construction and real estate organisations. Together, they aim to present the proposal to the Construction Ministry, the Justice Ministry, and governing parties in Berlin within days.
If adopted, the standard would establish a legally binding baseline for essential housing features. The GdW and its partners hope to accelerate reforms and lower construction expenses. The next step depends on the response from federal ministries and political parties.
