General

Heat pumps are gaining popularity as sustainable heating systems. They can often both heat and cool. However, Peter Kafke from the consumer advice center emphasizes that the heating function is often more important for the energy balance and costs than the cooling function. A high annual coefficient of performance (COP), which is the ratio of heat generated to electricity required, should therefore be aimed for.

Video recordings made in the stairwell without the tenants' knowledge may not be used as evidence in court proceedings. This is a clear violation of data protection and the tenants' personal rights. This was recently decided by the Federal Court of Justice (case reference: VI ZR 1370/20). In the case in question, a Berlin housing company had hired a private investigator...

When furnishing your first home, the chosen style should be consistent throughout all rooms to create a harmonious overall look. Popular styles include the country house style with natural materials, the Mediterranean style, which exudes warmth and Mediterranean flair, and the minimalist style, which is characterized by clean lines and restrained colours....

A granny apartment offers many advantages, but it must also meet specific requirements. Owners should consider this before building. Marc Ellinger from the VPB regional office in Freiburg-Südbaden emphasizes that a granny apartment must form a self-contained unit and have its own entrance. The equipment of a granny apartment also includes the kitchen and bathroom, which...

The Federal Ministry of Housing, Urban Development and Building (BMWSB) has presented the "Phased Plan for Smart Cities and Regions". This step-by-step plan is intended to modernize urban development and drive forward digitalization. It also aims to support municipalities in the implementation of digital solutions so that they can efficiently and purposefully...

Sebastian Herkel from the Fraunhofer Institute ISE advises owners of apartment buildings to invest early in an efficient heating system. They should not wait until their heating system breaks down, but should find out about their options as soon as possible. The reason for this is that properties built in the 1960s may initially require other investments, which then have to be...

Property owners can appeal against property tax values that are set too high. If the property tax values set by the tax office appear unrealistic, they must be given the opportunity to appeal. This is always the case if owners can credibly demonstrate an overvaluation of at least 40 percent. This was recently decided by the Federal Fiscal Court (BFH). In two...

Good watering is the basis for a healthy lawn. Watering in the early morning or late evening hours is optimal to maximize the efficiency of water use. This also reduces the evaporation of water on the surface before it can reach the roots. It also minimizes the risk of lawn diseases. The right amount of water depends...

Unmarried couples purchasing property together do not enjoy the same legal protections as married couples. It is therefore crucial to take legal precautions to avoid unexpected difficulties. Bausparkasse Schwäbisch Hall points this out. It recommends dealing with three main issues in particular: registration in the land register, the legal...

Extending a house with an extension offers many design options and increases its value. Careful planning is essential before construction begins. This includes deciding what type of extension is to be realized - whether an additional room, a conservatory or a granny apartment. It is also important to consult with an architect in order to adapt the room planning optimally to the...