Real estate transfer tax reform

Federal Finance Minister Christian Lindner (FDP) has given the starting signal for real estate transfer tax reform. From the initial consultations, it is clear that politicians are striving to lower the hurdles for acquiring real estate. Plans include giving the federal states the power to reduce the real estate transfer tax rate to zero. It is hoped that this would relieve the burden on private first-time buyers. Michael Schick, President of the German Real Estate Association IVD, welcomed the plans: Especially for young people, any dreams of owning their own home often come to nothing because their savings are not enough for a deposit and to get a mortgage. For this reason, the IVD believes that the proposed reforms are an important step in the right direction and could give middle-income households access to home ownership. In order to further promote sustainability, the IVD also advocates a real estate transfer tax refund for energy-efficient renovations.