Overview

• Berlin completed approximately 15,000 new housing units in 2024, marking a decline from 17,300 in 2023 and falling short of the annual target of 20,000 units set by the CDU-SPD coalition.
• Bausenator Christian Gaebler emphasized the creation of nearly 50,000 units over three years, housing around 100,000 people, as a positive development despite missing yearly goals.
• The newly passed 'Schneller-Bauen-Gesetz' aims to streamline planning and approval processes, but its impact is not expected to be visible until 2026 due to necessary implementation time.
• Economic uncertainties, high interest rates, and a potential delay in investor confidence due to the upcoming Bundestag election are anticipated to further hinder housing construction in 2025.
• Critics argue Berlin's housing initiatives are failing, but Gaebler defends the city's efforts, highlighting improved investment conditions and ongoing collaboration between government and private sectors.