Blog
Plain-language context on rates, subsidies and regulation around homeownership.
Mortgage Rate Report August 2026: Sideways, With a Cheaper Top End
Top offers from around 3.3% (10-year fix), typical market 3.6-4.1% – what has changed since the July report and what the ECB pause means.
Follow-Up Financing: When to Act – and the Three Paths You Can Take
Prolongation, refinancing or a forward loan? Plus the 10-year exit right under § 489 BGB that many don't know about.
KfW New-Build Subsidy: The EH55 Loan Ends by Late 2026 at the Latest – and the Pot Is Draining
Loans up to €100,000 at around 1% interest, but less than half of the €800M budget remains. Why the Dec 31 deadline is deceptive.
KfW Heat Pump Subsidy: What Applies Since July 21, 2026
New KfW conditions for the building efficiency subsidy (BEG) have applied since July 21, 2026: a restructured income bonus, reduced subsidies – and from 2027 the caps decrease step by step.
Mortgage Rate Report Summer 2026: Where Rates Stand Right Now
Current rates for 10, 15 and 20-year fixations, why the ECB rate hike affects them, and what it means for your planning.
2026 Property Tax (Grundsteuer) Update for Prospective Owners
The A/B/C category system, Hamburg's new Grundsteuer C, varying municipal rates, and the pending constitutional complaint against the federal model.
Real Estate Transfer Tax by German State 2026: Where You Pay the Most
Rates range from 3.5% to 6.5% depending on the state – up to €12,000 difference on a €400,000 property. Plus the reform debate and Hesse's Hessengeld program.
New KfW Subsidy "Commercial to Residential": Up to €30,000 per Unit
Since July 1, 2026, KfW subsidizes converting commercial space into housing. The key facts at a glance.
Wohn-Riester Reform 2027: What Changes for Existing Contracts
Higher subsidies, shorter taxation period, new eligible groups – and an important decision for everyone with an existing contract.