GermanyThe ifo Institute's study indicates that Germany's housing construction has reached a 15-year low, with only 185,000 new homes expected to be completed in 2026—22,000 fewer than in 2025. This follows a record low of 207,000 completions in 2025, the lowest since 2012. Despite persistent housing shortages, experts predict no immediate recovery. Factors include ongoing war-related disruptions, rising construction costs, and lengthy planning periods, which have extended the time between permits and completion by nearly six months. The government aims to accelerate housing through measures like the 'Bauturbo,' but challenges remain. Across Europe, while some countries like Spain and France are expected to see growth, Germany and Italy will likely experience only modest increases.
Bias read (Center): The article presents data-driven analysis from the ifo Institute and does not overtly favor any political ideology. While it discusses government initiatives like the 'Bauturbo' and mentions political goals such as social housing, these are presented as policy responses rather than ideological stabs
