The federal building minister, Verena Hubertz, has set up a new subsidy programme titled “”Business to Living””. It is aimed at turning vacant office buildings into residential units, with the government earmarking up to “€300 million” from a special fund. The aid is a grant, so it does not have to be repaid. The official notice will appear in the federal law gazette on Thursday.
The scheme is slated to begin this summer. Starting “1 July” investors may submit applications, but only before construction commences. Each new apartment can receive a grant of “up to €30 000”, while the total aid a single company can obtain is capped at “€300 000”.
The programme targets the conversion of “heated buildings-or heated parts of buildings-that are not used for residential purposes at the time of application-into dwelling space”. At least one new apartment must result from every conversion, and the projects must include climate‑appropriate renovation measures.
Minister Hubertz stressed that “vacancy amid a housing shortage is unacceptable”. By breathing new life into empty commercial properties, the plan not only creates housing but also revitalises inner cities and enhances the quality of life for residents.
