Majority of businesses unconvinced by proposed solutions to housing crisis

Approximately 700 businesses participated in the survey.

Christel Chatelain, Director of Economic Affairs at the Chamber of Commerce, reported that high interest rates, a lack of affordable housing, and stringent lending conditions were the most frequently cited causes of the housing crisis.

Contrary to common perceptions, environmental standards and administrative complexity were not seen as significant contributors. Only 9% of respondents identified paperwork as problematic, and a mere 6% pointed to environmental standards or fiscal policy as factors in the housing crisis.

Given this context, it is unsurprising that the majority of companies are sceptical about the effectiveness of the measures announced by the Christian Social People's Party (CSV) and the Democratic Party (DP), which focus on tax breaks and streamlining administrative procedures. The survey found that 60% of businesses believe the housing crisis will persist, and 10% think it will worsen.

While these results suggest a lack of confidence in the government's approach, Carlo Thelen, the director of the Chamber of Commerce, stops short of saying the measures are entirely misguided.

Thelen noted that while the measures can be welcomed, the Chamber of Commerce has consistently stated that they will not solve the problem in the very short term. He also mentioned the psychological impact of the announcements, suggesting that people who were considering buying property might delay their decisions, anticipating that further measures could be introduced soon.

Christel Chatelain partially defended the government, pointing out that there are factors beyond its control, such as high interest rates. However, these issues were also present under previous government coalitions, as the European Central Bank in Frankfurt has long been responsible for setting interest rates.