Homeowners’ association at a glance

A condominium owners’ association (WEG) is a community of owners who own one or more apartments in a common building. So when you buy an apartment unit in a property, you automatically become a co-owner and a part of the community of owners. Explore Real Estate Germany.

The community of owners can be described like this:

Community of all owners of a property.

The community of owners is responsible for the management, maintenance and modernization of the common property. Decisions are made at the owners’ meeting, where each owner has one vote. An administrator is appointed to represent the interests of the owners and is responsible for the management and maintenance of the common property. The condominium owners’ association is a legal entity and can, for example, conclude contracts or appear in court.

Homeowners’ association at a glance:

• A WEG is the community of all owners of a property
• Each owner can represent his right to vote at the meeting of owners
• Each owner has a certain co-ownership share in the common property
• Each member of a WEG must bear costs for the common property
• Each owner is responsible for his or her own special property
• Each owner has to fulfill certain rights and obligations
• Each COA must have certain documents that set out rules and boundaries

Ownership shares and common property

The distribution of property in a condominium owners’ association is defined in the declaration of division. There, it is described in detail which parts of the building are assigned to separate property and which are considered common property.

Each owner has a co-ownership share in the common property of the building, such as the land, the facade, the staircase or the roof. The size of the share depends on the size of the respective apartment in relation to the total living space of the building.

For this purpose, each owner occupies special ownership of his or her apartment. This means that he has sole ownership of his apartment and can use and manage it freely.

This is the right of each owner:

• Co-owner of the common property
• Special ownership of own apartment

Rights and duties of the WEG

Each owner of a condominium association has certain rights and obligations arising from the Condominium Act and the declaration of division. In this section, we will look at these aspects in more detail and explain what rights and obligations an owner has.

The rights and obligations in a WEG include:

• Management
• Maintenance
• Owners’ meeting
• Resolutions

Management and maintenance

The owners are jointly responsible for the management and maintenance of the common property. This includes, for example, the maintenance of the garden, the cleaning of the staircase or the repair of the roof. The costs are apportioned to the owners in proportion to their ownership shares.

This duty has every owner:

• Responsible for common property
• Responsible for internal or external management

Participation in the owners’ meeting

The owners’ meeting is the central body of the condominium owners’ association and is used to make important decisions for the common property. It is therefore important that the owners attend the meeting and express their opinions. However, there is no obligation to attend.

Minutes of the owners’ meeting must be kept and signed by an owner and the administrator. The minutes must contain all resolutions passed and voting results.

Are you interested in the topic of owners’ meetings? Learn more here!

• Owners’ meeting

Voting procedure and resolution

In the owners’ meeting, decisions are made by voting. There are different voting procedures, e.g. simple majority, qualified majority or unanimous decision. A resolution is only valid if it has been properly passed and does not violate any laws or the declaration of division.

House Rules, Declaration of Partition & Co.

In order to regulate the ownership shares in a house with several parties and to guarantee a harmonious living together, a written order is needed. Therefore, every multi-party house has a declaration of division, community rules and house rules.

The house rules are the most important document and, from the legal point of view, the first place to regulate the operation in a multi-apartment building. They are drawn up by the homeowners’ association or the appointed manager and are an obligation for them.

The community rules regulate all regulations and laws for living together in the residential complex and are legally behind the house rules. Since the community rules can be determined by the owners themselves, changes may be decided unanimously at the owners’ meeting.

The declaration of division of a property exists whenever the overall property is split into individual parts, such as individual residential units. It therefore describes the formal division of the property and thereby defines the rights and obligations of the owners.

Order of the WEG at a glance:

• House rules: regulates operation in multi-apartment building
• Community rules: regulates all the rules and laws for living together in the residential complex.
• Declaration of division: thus describes the formal division of the property

Explanatory video: Application for Baukindergeld

This means that only families who submit a building permit or purchase contract by December 31, 2020, can still receive Baukindergeld. Up to €12,000 is available per child over a period of ten years. Whether and how much Baukindergeld can be included in the financing depends on the owner’s income.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BPcrbAaR0Fc

Here are the most important key points of the building allowance

Sell pitch: Learn about the sale

Have you already checked whether you are allowed to sell your parking space? Here you will learn the difference between special ownership and special right of use.

Should you know the difference, scroll down directly to the sale: procedure

Special ownership and special right of use: Significance

The distinction between special ownership and special right of use has a big effect on sales – learn why here.

Let’s summarize the “special property” and the “special right of use” quite simply. In terms of renting, it makes no difference. But it does make a difference when selling.

Individual car parking spaces are usually common property.

Therefore, before selling, you must check whether you are allowed to rent your parking space as 1) an authorized user or 2) as a special owner, to rent or also to sell (simply, without the consent of the other owners).

Here you will learn when which case (1, 2) occurrence.

Quickly explained! When does what apply?

Legally (according to the Condominium Act [WEG]), the difference lies in the question a) above ground [special right of use] or b) below ground [special property]. There are exceptions to this, in the case of “closed” rooms, so above-ground garages can also be special property.

When is the sale of your pitch allowed and when not?

Special right of use quickly explained

In the case of the special right of use, no separate sale of the parking space is permitted – at least not without the consent of all owners at the owners’ meeting. The rental itself is exclusively at your discretion. For the sale you need, as said, the consent of the others.

Special right of use:

• Renting easily possible
• Sale only with the consent of all owners

Special property quickly explained

In the case of special ownership, a separate land register sheet is created for the parking space. This means that resale to third parties is possible without any problems.

Special property:

• Rental and sale to third parties easily possible

Regulated in the declaration of partition / partition agreement

When is there a special right of use and when is it special property?

The answer for a specific property can be found in the declaration of partition or partition agreement. Here it has been regulated by the owners’ meeting whether it is 1) special property or whether you “only” have a 2) special right of use to the parking space.

When, which case (in general) is present, regulates the residential property law (WEG). The first, crucial difference arises from the question, is your parking space:

1. Built above ground (parking lot)
2. Or in an underground car park

Above-ground parking spaces (parking lot):

Parking space underground(underground parking):

Exception above ground, enclosed spaces (garages), more on this in a moment:

Special right of use of the parking space

The special right of use, on the other hand, means that you as the owner may use certain parts of the common property alone. Accordingly, in the case of a special right of use, no separate sale of the parking space is permitted without the consent of all owners in the owners’ meeting.

Special right of use is called:

• Sole right of use
• No sale without the consent of the community of owners

Source: WEG §5

Special property at the parking space

As already learned, in the case of special ownership, a separate land register sheet is created for the parking lot, so that resale is possible.

According to the German Condominium Act (WEG), special ownership is largely equivalent to full ownership. Also important, especially for above-ground parking spaces, according to WEG § 3 para. 2, special ownership is only possible for enclosed spaces. This also makes a big difference to the question: Are you allowed to sell your parking space or not?

Special property is called:

• Closed rooms, according to WEG
• Resale possible without reconciliation

Source: WEG §3 (Law on Condominium Ownership and Permanent Residence Law [Wohnungseigentumsgesetz]).

Special property? Above ground / underground (underground parking)

Accordingly, what type of parking space is eligible for special ownership?

• Parking space in underground garage = Yes

Individual underground parking spaces are eligible for separate ownership. In this regard, WEG §3 states extra “Garage parking spaces are considered to be enclosed spaces if their areas are visible by permanent markings”.

Above-ground parking spaces are not eligible for special ownership.

• Parking above ground = No

Exception: Above ground and closed

Exception are here, according to WEG § 3 para. 2 “closed rooms”, such as garages and garage facilities.

The regulation is determined in the declaration of division, the community rules or agreement. If this is missing, all owners registered in the land register must agree to the special ownership (or special right of use).

Step by step: checklist sale

Should you be selling your very first pitch, you don’t have to stray far from the typical real estate sales procedure. The parameters are fundamentally the same, especially if your buyers are capital investors (rentals). It all starts with timing, which also brings you directly to the second question, sell with or without an agent?

Whether it is a parking lot or condominium, the principle is always the same when selling a property. You need to make the final sale decision, you needed the right documents, you need to have your property (parking lot) evaluated by a professional. And so that you are well prepared for your first parking lot sale, here is a comprehensive guide in 18 steps!

Learn everything important here in 18 steps!

Preparation: prepare property and sale

• Financial planning and timing of sale
• Hire real estate agent
• Records and documents
• Increase real estate value
• Determine offer price
• Create exposé

Sales phase: market property and find buyers

• Market real estate
• Contact with prospective buyers
• Filter and select prospective buyers
• Credit check
• Viewing dates
• Sales talk & purchase price negotiation

Sales processing: purchase contract until handover

• Draw up purchase contract with notary
• Notary appointment
• Land register entry and payment processing
• Handover of the property
• Notary fees & broker commission
• Pay taxes

Pitches: Statistics

Especially in Berlin, Düsseldorf, Frankfurt, Hamburg, Cologne, Munich, Stuttgart and other cities with a stable, rising trend in various areas (population, demographics, economy, etc.), parking spaces are in demand. Did you already know: Despite the “climate debate”, the sale of vehicles in this country is increasing every year.

Last year alone, there were 2.92 million new passenger car registrations (source: KBA). According to the KBA, the vehicle population in Germany increased by a full 1.1 million vehicles compared to the previous year’s reporting date to approximately 66.9 million vehicles registered in Germany, a full +1.6%.

66.9 million registered vehicles in Germany

Don’t worry, you will get your parking space sold! The only question is: How much is your parking space / garage worth?

Here again are figures on the sale of passenger cars:

Solar systems, Oil and Gas Heating or Heat Pump?!

When deciding on a heating system some things must be considered, because there are big differences. Depending on the property, it must be decided individually which system is best suited to heat the entire property efficiently. However, the systems differ not only in their environmental friendliness, but also in efficiency and price.

Solar Thermal: Solar Energy

Solar thermal is the process by which solar energy is converted into usable heat. In residential properties, the heat produced is usually used to heat water or for heating. Depending on the location and conditions of the property, this system can completely replace the previously used heating system.

State subsidy of 2,000 euros

Renewable Energy Reduces Running Costs

The solar cells can replace hot water by up to 50 to 65 percent and thus also cover the majority of the annual hot water demand.

How do Solar Cells Work?

The solar cells on the roof have a special function. So-called absorbers catch the heat of the sun and pass it on to pipes in which a heat transfer fluid runs. This heats up and runs to a hot water storage tank in the building, where the heat of the heat transfer fluid is transferred to the water in the storage tank via a heat exchange. The hot water from the storage tank can now be used directly in the house, both for heating and as hot water. The heat transfer fluid flows back to the solar cells to be reheated. The water in the storage tank can also be used without direct solar radiation thanks to this technology.

Solar System, Photovoltaics, where is the Difference?

In addition to a solar system a photovoltaic system is suitable. This also uses solar energy, but the energy is not converted into heat but into usable electricity. Both systems together free the owner from dependence on large energy companies, because he can now produce both heat and electricity in his own home. If the house is in a good location, the owner no longer needs to rely on externally produced heat or electricity.

Solar system (single family house):

Optimal use of space for energy generation:

Settlement and urban development, favorable energy costs for tenants:

Close-up of the roof with quantities of solar collectors to generate energy for the residents.

State Subsidies for Solar Thermal Energy

The promotion of solar thermal energy is subsidized in various areas. The first point of contact for future solar thermal energy owners should be the BAFA (Federal Office of Economics and Export Control). The conditions of funding are as follows:

1. In the area of one and two-family houses, a lump sum for the construction of a solar system of 2,000 euros can be applied for, which can be used both for hot water preparation and for heating support. This flat rate applies to solar systems up to 14 square meters. With a size of 15 to 40 square meters 140 euro per square meter are granted at gross collector surface.
2. An extension of already existing plants is subsidized with 50 Euro per square meter of gross collector area
3. Solar systems that are used exclusively for water heating can be subsidized with 50 euros per square meter of gross collector area, as long as the area is in the range of 3 to 40 square meters. The maximum subsidy per system is 500 Euro.
4. In addition, certain bonuses are offered, such as a subsidy for the replacement of defective parts or additional installations, such as a heat pump or similar.

Further Subsidies for Solar Thermal Energy

However, the promotion in the field of solar thermal energy goes even further and various banks also offer special conditions when taking out loans for the construction of solar thermal systems. Depending upon individual case it applies here however directly with the offerer to inform and individual offers obtain.

Heating Stock: High Consumption, Low Efficiency

56% find their heating system “insufficiently efficient”. My tip, rely on a humidifier before the heating system is permanently turned up to full power. This will give you the same feeling of warmth at lower costs.

Very few heating systems are efficient, and therefore also cost-saving. Here you can see the efficiency structure in the heating stock in Germany in 2018 and 2019. More than half of the respondents, a full 57% (2018) and 56% (2019), consider their heating system to be “insufficiently efficient”. A real cost eater, if used incorrectly.

• Insufficiently efficient: 56%
• Efficient: 24%
• Efficient and renewable: 20%

Gas heating: Heating with Natural Gas, Liquid Gas or Biogas

Gas heating is probably the most widespread type of heating in Germany and rightly so, because the system offers many advantages. Modern technology, efficiency and inexpensive offers characterize the gas heating. In addition, they are easy to combine with renewable energies, save space and can be easily installed during modernization and renovation.

Condensing gas heaters are currently the best on the market in terms of technology, they replace the constant boilers, which are almost non-existent, and there are also some advantages over low-temperature gas heaters. Condensing gas heaters only use the calorific value of natural gas and liquid gas or biogas and therefore use the heat of the exhaust gas. This results in a very good efficiency and standard efficiencies of well over 100% are achieved. In addition to these advantages, condensing gas heating systems do not take up more space than others and can therefore even be integrated into small niches. Learn more about the topic

• Gas heating and gas-fired boilers!

Hot water and cold water temperature in the heating system:

With all these advantages, however, it should not be forgotten that gas is also a fossil fuel and is therefore more harmful to the environment than renewable energies. However, gas is the most environmentally friendly fossil fuel, as its combustion produces few CO2 emissions and no soot. Biogas is also an alternative, as it does not emit CO2.

State funding for gas heating systems

There are also certain subsidy programs for gas heating systems, which promote both the installation of a gas heating system in a new building and the conversion to gas heating in older properties. The conditions are as follows:

1. 1. The BAFA (Federal Office of Economics and Export Control) promotes gas heating only indirectly. Real estate owners who install an eligible solar system for combined heating support and hot water preparation receive a so-called boiler exchange bonus of 500 euros if they switch to gas heating with condensing technology at the same time.

• Also banks, like the KfW promote the installation of gas heaters by granting low-interest loans to finance gas heating systems. This also includes modernizations but also ancillary costs such as those for radiators, thermal insulation and installations.
• The program number 430 “Energy-efficient renovation – investment subsidy” subsidizes various measures, such as the installation of gas heating systems or the modernization of the heating system.

Oil Heating: Heating with Fuel Oil or Bio Fuel Oil

Oil heatings are after gas heatings the probably most frequently occurring systems in Germany. The function mode is simple and works for decades in the same way. The fuel fuel oil is pumped over an oil pipe to the heating system where it is sprayed and burned. The heat generated during this process is used to warm up the heating water and thus to heat the house. Most of these components can be found in the boiler, which now takes up little more than one square meter of space and can even be hung on the wall, depending on the model.

Advantages for property owners

Oil heating systems offer many advantages for real estate owners, because oil heating has a proven and reliable technology that has proven itself for decades. Besides fuel oil can be procured with low price level and be stored on stock. A connection to gas or district heating networks is not necessary, making the owner independent of energy suppliers. The combustion is very economical and has low emissions. There is also a solution for the environmentally conscious, because bio fuel oil, which is produced from renewable raw materials, covers the requirements for the share of renewable energies and an oil heating system can also be combined well with a solar system.

In addition, disadvantages are to be led, because fuel oil prices are badly foreseeable and the fuel costs must be financed by the owner in advance. In addition, space is needed in the cellar, where the tank can be stored.

Who wants to save on fuel oil costs must also accept an oil smell in the cellar, which can only be avoided by premium fuel oil with fragrances. Who does not heat with bio fuel oil, must besides know that with the burn of oil CO2-Emissionen develops.

• Economical combustion
• Low emission

State subsidies for oil heating systems

The subsidies for oil heating systems are lower than those for other heating systems, but there are different subsidies for oil heating systems to help the owners. The conditions for the subsidies are as follows:

1. With its program 152 individual measures, the KfW Bank promotes higher energy efficiency and a reduction of energy costs. Not only the replacement of the oil heating system is therefore being promoted, but also the installation of a highly efficient circulation pump and a circulation pump.
2. The BAFA (Federal Office of Economics and Export Control) promotes oil heating systems only indirectly, as well as gas heating systems. Real estate owners who install an eligible solar system for combined heating support and hot water preparation receive a so-called boiler exchange bonus of 500 euros when replacing the old heating system with an oil heating system with condensing technology.

Pellet Heating: Ovens with Pressed Wood Residues

A modern pellet heating system is known for low fuel costs as well as for environmentally friendly heating and is therefore one step ahead of conventional gas and oil heating systems. Also the function mode is relatively simple. The wood pellets are periodically delivered to the combustion chamber by means of a feeder, so the correct filling is fully automatic. The heat generated by burning the pellets is used in a separate boiler to heat the water. Thus, both the heating can be operated and the hot water can be produced.

The costs for the fuels of a pellet heating system are much cheaper than fossil fuels, such as oil or gas, but the purchase costs for pellet heating systems are much higher and also maintenance work costs more. In addition, this heating system requires considerably more space than a gas or oil heating system. On the other hand, the pellet heating system is very environmentally friendly.

Wood pellets: size and units

• Diameter: 6 – 9 mm
• Length 10 – 35 mm
• Raw density 1.1 kg/dm³ 1.2 kg/dm³
• Bulk density approx. 650 kg/m³ (0.65 kg/l) approx. 650 kg/m³

Close-up of wood pellets:

State subsidies for pellet heating systems

The funding for pellet heating systems is extraordinarily good. Again, there are different possibilities, which have different requirements. The conditions are as follows:

1. 1. The KfW Bank also promotes here with low-interest loans
   2. The BAFA (Federal Office of Economics and Export Control) wants to make the installation of a pellet heating system as attractive as possible with their subsidy, therefore they offer financial means of the market incentive program (MAP), which do not have to be paid back! However, these unbelievable conditions require strict conditions to make the subsidy possible. These conditions only include pellet boilers with and without buffer storage and pellet stoves with water pocket and combination stoves that can be filled with wood pellets, logs or wood chips.

Heat Pump: Heating with the Heat of Nature

Technically speaking, a heat pump is a system that can extract thermal energy from a medium with low temperatures through technical work and supplied working energy. That sounds first once quite complicated, the principle of the heat pump is however actually quite simple. The heat pump extracts heat from the different energy sources air, earth and water and uses it to heat water for heating purposes. For this purpose external electricity must be supplied, but not as much as would be necessary for a normal heating system.

Heat pumps also have many financial advantages, because the state subsidies are very high here. Banks also offer favourable credit conditions for households with heat pumps. The value increasing function, which a heat pump for a real estate represents, is additionally a plus for the owner. Heat pumps are besides extremely pollution free. They emit neither CO2-Emissionen, nor use them fossil fuels. The lastingness is probably one of the largest advantages for heat pumps, which arrive not only with owners of real estate well, but also by the state are increasingly supported.

State funding for a heat pump

The subsidies for heat pumps are regulated by the BAFA. Banks also offer favorable interest rates for financing heat pumps, but the large subsidies come from the state. Efficient heat pumps with a nominal heat output of up to 100 kilowatts are subsidized if they perform the following tasks:

1. Combination of space heating and hot water (only space heating if hot water is produced by other renewable energies)
2. Exclusively for space heating in non-residential buildings
3. To provide process heat and heat for the heating network
4. Funding guidelines must be fulfilled

Excluded from state subsidies are air-to-air heat pumps and other heat pumps that transfer their heat directly to the air. Heat pumps that produce only hot water are also not subsidized.

BHKW – Heat and produce electricity at the same time

Combined heat and power plants or CHPs for short are known for using energy particularly efficiently. The system is quite simple, because a CHP produces not only thermal energy, i.e. heat, but also electrical energy, i.e. electricity, and that at the same time. Ecologically, the parallel generation of electricity and heat is extremely useful because it results in fewer losses.

The mode of operation is extremely effective, because the CHP works with the principle of combined heat and power generation. During the production of electricity, heat is generated which is normally not used as waste heat and is therefore lost. However, if this heat is used, one speaks of a cogeneration plant. These CHP plants are particularly suitable for large industrial plants, hospitals or universities, as the heat used can be fed into district heating networks or used for production in industrial plants. This model combines the motor, the generator and the heat exchanger in a sound-insulated housing and thus compactly packs all required modules in one block. This is where the name block-type thermal power station comes from.

A CHP can be operated by almost all drives and gets along with almost any fuel. From gasoline and diesel engines, steam or Stirling engines to gas turbines or fuel cells, the CHP can use almost any drive. The fuels are then selected according to the drive system. Thus, a CHP can be very environmentally friendly and can be operated with biogas or regenerative energies, for example, but it can also function just as environmentally harmful with crude oil. The possibilities are therefore broadly diversified and can be individually adapted to the customer’s wishes.

Promotion for BHKW

The subsidies for CHP plants are precisely regulated. The owner of such a plant can feed the electricity into the public grid, similar to photovoltaic systems, and receive compensation for this. The conditions for BAFA-supported CHP plants are as follows:

• The “Law for the Maintenance, Modernization and Expansion of Combined Heat and Power Generation” regulates that operators of a CHP plant receive a supplement for the electricity produced. However, in order to do so, the CHP unit must be approved by the BAFA
• The KfW Bank also subsidizes a CHP with favorable interest rates and good credit conditions

Infrared: Heating with Electricity

Even if the conventional heating systems have proven themselves, infrared heating is definitely an alternative that should be considered. Although heating with electricity is generally considered expensive, there are other factors that make heating with electricity economical. Our detailed guide will tell you which points are important and when heating with electricity is worthwhile.

Heating with electricity by infrared rays

When building a house, the question of the right heating system always arises. There are many variants that need to be considered, and infrared heating is one of them. The model shows many advantages that are well adapted to different life situations. But under which conditions is it worthwhile to install infrared heating and how exactly does heating with electricity actually work?

Acceptable and healthy heat through infrared rays

The radiation of infrared heating works differently than other heating systems, because the radiation does not heat the air in the room, but directly the body. This includes not only the human body, but also walls, ceilings or floors and even furniture. The principle can be compared with sunbathing in winter. With this technique, the body feels the warmth as pleasant even at low temperatures. From this follows that only low temperatures are necessary and thus electricity and heating costs are saved. Another advantage of infrared heating is that the rooms do not have to be preheated for a long time to keep the body pleasantly warm. This provides comfortable warmth and thus increases well-being and health.

Heating Technology: Circulation Pump, Combined Heat and Power & Condensing Technology

Owners of buildings or real estate meet with searches for heating systems again and again the same technical terms. So what is really behind terms such as combined heat and power or condensing boiler technology and how important are these for the new heating system?

Heating pump – the heart of central heating

Probably the most important element of a common central heating system is the heating pump, also called circulation pump. It works in the basement and ensures that there is always enough warm water to the radiators, thus enabling heating. However, the willingness to perform, especially in older models, results in unnecessarily high energy consumption and the resulting high energy costs. Therefore, it makes sense to replace older models, as they are usually oversized and always provide high performance, even when this is not necessary. The older models do not adapt to the actual demand and therefore often work unnecessarily at full speed even in summer. New models have a stepwise or automatic regulation and therefore only work at full power when it is really needed. This reduces costs enormously and energy consumption is not unnecessarily high.

Heating pump to be replaced: drain

But when is it necessary to replace a heating pump? This is easy to find out by following these tips:

• Calculate how many watts you use and compare this value with the power value of your existing pump. Calculate about 1-2 Watt per radiator. A household with 10 radiators therefore needs a heat pump with the power of about 20 watts. If the achievement value of your heat pump lies clearly over the value, you should think about an investment into a new heat pump.
• Check the energy class of your heat pump. The higher the energy class, the lower the power consumption and the higher the energy saving potential. A class A heat pump is optimal, as it works most efficiently.
• Look for a specialized company and get individual advice on whether the installation of a new heating pump makes sense for your real estate.

Cogeneration: Efficient use of energy

In general, the term cogeneration is used to describe the generation of energy, i.e. electricity by combustion, whereby the waste heat is used for heating purposes. The kinetic energy generated to drive a generator is used to generate electricity. The available waste heat is then supplied to heating systems. This waste heat is so great in large plants, such as industrial plants, that entire districts but also public buildings, such as hospitals, can be supplied with it. The parallel generation of electrical and thermal energy makes enormous economic sense, as otherwise much energy remains unused.

The technology has been minimized enormously over the last years. Where large machines were needed in the past, there are now CHP plants that are compactly combined in a box and produce the same output. Meanwhile, there are also systems for multi-family houses, which can generate outputs of about 4kW of electrical and 20kW of thermal energy and are relatively small. The technology is thus becoming increasingly compatible and individually applicable in many different areas.

Condensing technology: utilization of condensation heat

Condensing technology uses the temperatures of the exhaust gas to preheat the combustion air. A pipe-in-pipe flue gas system heats the cold outside air through the flue gas. The exhaust gas then cools down to the outside temperature. The flue gas must pass a very large heat transfer surface and in doing so releases the heat to the lowest possible system temperatures of the heating system. Since these are very low, the water content in the exhaust gas condenses and the condensation heat is used. Condensing technology therefore mainly describes the process by which the heat of condensation is used.

In order for the condensation to function under all conditions, low heating system temperatures are necessary, which are created by large heat transfer surfaces. Panel heating systems such as floor, ceiling and wall heating systems are therefore particularly popular.

Radiators: Models, Functions & Correct Ventilation

Radiators ensure that the heat produced can reach the various rooms in the building and be controlled there. There are not only different models of radiators, but also some things you should know about them.

Floor Heating: cuddly warm feet

The underfloor heating is one of the panel heating systems. A distinction is made between warm water heating systems (wet and dry systems) and electrical systems. Hot water underfloor heating systems are installed invisibly in the floor surface. The pipes are therefore laid directly in or under the screed. Electric underfloor heating consists of a mat or net in which heating cables are integrated. This is laid under the floor covering and heats the floor from there.

In terms of price, the cost of underfloor heating varies depending on the system. In the case of a dry system, the cost is 28-44 euros per square meter. Additional costs for other materials and installation are also included. A wet system costs between 13-40 euros per square meter, depending on the type of installation. Here, too, there are additional costs for additional installation materials. The electrical systems can be installed from 24 euros per square meter. The prices vary depending on the floor area. The larger the surface, i.e. the surface, the lower the price per square meter.

Wall & ceiling heating: invisible radiators

The wall and ceiling heating systems are also among the panel heating systems. They are installed under the wall or ceiling and initially only heat the wall/ceiling. The heat is then transferred to the room by thermal radiation. Heat dissipation by convection is almost non-existent here and the movement of the air is largely eliminated.

In most cases, a simple central heating system is the source of the heat, because it pumps the warm water through the pipes under the wall/ceiling. However, this heating system can also be combined with renewable energies and condensing boilers. The panel heating system manages here without any problems with supply temperatures of around 30° C. A prerequisite for the efficient use of this radiator, however, is good insulation, as otherwise too much thermal energy is lost.

Simply vent the radiator: drain

Each heater should be vented regularly. This helps to avoid annoying noises and allows the heater to develop its full performance. Trapped air in the heater reduces the performance of the heater and leads to higher energy consumption. This air must therefore be vented regularly. Signs that the heater needs to be vented are for example strange noises like a bubbling or a gurgling sound coming from the radiator but also that the heater does not get completely warm but only around the region of the water inlet.

Before the heater is vented, the water pressure must be checked. This should be within the marked normal range, otherwise water must be topped up to restore the pressure. After each new filling of the heater with water, the heater must be vented. For this purpose all thermostats should be closed and the valve should be searched for. This is usually located at the opposite upper end of the radiator and looks either like a small square pin or a pentagonal screw. Depending on which valve is present, venting must be done with a venting wrench or pliers.

The most common valve is the square spindle, which can be vented with a vent wrench. To do this, the valve must be opened until the air escapes hissing. It is important not to open the valve too far, otherwise it could fall out. If all excess air has escaped, water will start to escape from the valve. From this moment the valve should be closed again quickly. It is best to catch escaping water with a container.

Fireplace and Stove: Heating with Comfort

Also a chimney oven offers the possibility to save heating costs or even to heat the whole building. A fire-place with wood or pellets to heat, brings however by far more advantages than only the saving of heating costs. The burning of wood is CO2-neutral and thus very pollution free. Whether the choice falls now on a chimney oven or on a tiled stove, is here rather a matter of taste.

Fire-place in modern free-hold apartment (Berlin):

Fireplace integration country house (Mallorca)

An ordinary wood-burning stove consists of a steel body with a combustion chamber and a correspondingly required flue gas pipe. The flue gas pipe directs the flue gas products produced during combustion to the outside. The firebox is closed with a fireproof glass door to minimize the danger of an open fire in the living room. Fireplace stoves are offered in many different designs and models and can be individually adapted to the room by the owner. Besides the practical function of saving heating costs, the fireplace also has a cosy and aesthetic effect.

Firewood: Do-it-yourself, shredding & stacking

Kaminholz & Kaminholzlagerung – Larger quantities of firewood, are often stored on properties. The garden or a barn are often used for storage. Larger quantities of firewood, once stored on a property, must be stored in a fire protected place. This measure is regularly checked by a chimney sweep. In this article you will find tips and videos about storage, DIY, stacking and chopping firewood for your fireplace:

Please contact your health care provider if you think you may be affected. You can always find updated official information here: Federal Centre for Health Education.

Special: Real Estate & Corona – Updates

More articles and analysis on real estate in the Corona Crisis:

• Demand increases (Google Trends): Real estate sales
• Is the real estate bubble bursting? Price development
• Housing bubble, what does that mean?
• COVID-19: Coronavirus Meaning

Meaning: Coronavirus – COVID-19

The World Health Organization (WHO) declares that COVID-19 is a pandemic. This means that the entire world is affected. The virus affects human social and economic life worldwide. The coronavirus has spread in China’s Wuhan province and the number of infected people is increasing every day. The virus has spread to more than 150 countries and the infected rate is increasing steadily. It causes severe and acute respiratory problem in some infected people.

How is the real estate market developing? How should you invest now in the crisis?

Corona Analysis 08/20 – now online

Now online – Real Estate Corona crisis: sale of house, apartment, apartment building, the demand is increasing, that show the trends. In these days many speak of the second wave, which comes now on Germany in addition, the whole world. Already at the beginning, at the beginning with the Corona Pandemie, in many economic in addition, financial messages before it warned that in the autumn a wave of the insolvencies will come on us. A logical consequence of insolvency is the loss of property, not only in the form of jewellery, cars or furnishings, of course real estate will also be affected if the rate of insolvencies in Germany increases.

The trend analysis in the field of real estate sales (08/20) deals with the increasing demand. Very directly visible, among others on the main keyword “sell property”. The charts and the review of the last 12 months can be found below. Moderately increased, on average only 2 to 3 points, are the sale of house and condominium. So there doesn’t seem to be much change in the amount of search queries here yet.

Very noticeable, on the other hand, is the trend on the topic of “selling multi-family houses”. As you will see in the individual analyses and charts, the trend is jumping upwards these days.

Now online: Real Estate Corona Analysis 08/20

DAX at the beginning of April 2020: Price losses

• February 2020: 13,702
• Beginning of April 2020: 10,056
• Loss: -36.25%

Why do we need to contain the virus?

Germany did not expect such a state of emergency and the healthcare systems are not prepared for such exceptional situations in time. In Germany, for example, there are 25,000 ventilators. As a rule, these are 80% occupied. This means that theoretically only 5,000 devices would remain for treatment. Why is ventilation so important? Among other things, COVID-19 causes the lungs to stick together in some cases, so it is important to ventilate patients. The more patients need this inpatient treatment, the higher the workload and the risk of insufficient equipment.

If this is the case, as in northern Italy, for example, doctors will have to decide who gets treatment and who does not. By choosing, individuals will have to be turned away, especially those who are less likely to be cured. This is a decision no one wants to have to make. In order to alleviate the situation, the current curfews were adopted.

Coronavirus breaks out in 2 out of 3 infected people

This prevents infection from spreading rapidly and keeps the infection curve low, protecting hospitals from overuse. By taking these measures, public health authorities and the entire national healthcare infrastructure around the world gain valuable time to respond to this crisis.

The problem with this virus is that you notice the outbreak of the virus only after 7 days. Accordingly, in the first few days you do not notice that you can already infect other people. Since the symptoms are similar to a normal cold, you should see a doctor at the latest when you have a fever! While some infected people are hit extremely hard, many other infected people do not notice any noticeable effects. Accordingly, they do not know that they are actually carriers long ago.

Prohibitions – curfew light summarized

A few days ago German Chancellor Angela Merkel appeared before the cameras of the capital’s press. In Berlin, she announced new measures. She announced tightened measures to contain COVID-19 infections. No complete curfews will be imposed. However, there are restrictions that every citizen must abide by. Persons are now only allowed to be outside alone. Sports, shopping and walking may only be done with a maximum of 2 people or people from one household. Furthermore, it is not allowed to meet with more than 2 persons, neither in public nor in private. Those who do not comply with the current regulations can expect a fine.

1. People are only allowed outside alone for walks, sports, etc.
   Exception are 2 persons or persons from one household
2. Meetings with more than 2 persons are forbidden and currently even punishable, in the public and private space
3. There are exceptions like the way to the supermarket, pharmacy or even the way to work.

Tips: How can you help?

People who are currently on holiday or short leave, or can no longer do any work because their business is closing, try to help people in quarantine. You go shopping for them and do important tasks. However, if you have little time to do something good for your fellow human beings, the following points will help to protect you and your fellow human beings. You can help the most by adjusting your own behavior:

1. Keep your distance from others
2. You should stay home as often as possible. This means above all limiting personal meetings with elderly or chronically ill people – for their protection.
3. Refrain from handshakes and hugs

3 Dangers of COVID-19

The course of this disease varies from person to person. That is why it is so difficult to judge for oneself whether one has a “simple” cold or is carrying the coronavirus. While older people, people with previous heart and lung diseases, liver diseases, cancer patients or patients with a weakened immune system have to be very careful, everyone else is not protected from the virus.

1. Until the virus breaks out in the body, it takes 7 days. During these 7 days, you yourself do not know about the infection already happened
2. Minimizing the risk of hospital overload (lowering the infection curve)
3. A large proportion of those infected do not develop any symptoms of the disease even after the 7 days, so they remain virus carriers without knowing it.

What is the legal framework for curfews?

In order to combat communicable diseases, bans and prohibitions can generally be issued on the basis of the IfSG. The 16 federal states are responsible for enforcing the requirements concluded from this.

Exceptions to the curfew

The acting authority can provide its orders with exceptions, which in turn must be as specific as possible. The first general decree of the district of Tirschenreuth in Germany explicitly provides for the following exceptions, among others:

1. Necessary delivery traffic
2. Shopping and basic services within the urban area
3. Visits to doctors’ surgeries, medical supply stores, etc. as well as visits to pharmacies
4. Travel to and from the place of work with employer’s certificate
5. Visits to post office branches and petrol stations

COVID-19 – what is it? The virus in detail

After the most important information, here we have a lot more important information about the coronavirus and its course. Are all coronaviruses dangerous for humans? Are there comparable examples to COVID-19? We have the answers.

Which people are most at risk?

Everyone should not take it lightly and assume that they remain healthy. With coronavirus, two groups of people in particular, are at risk:

1. Older people over 60
2. People with pre-existing conditions

The virus poses different risks for different age groups. Thus, the mortality rate for people under 60 years is relatively low. On the other hand, the mortality rate increases rapidly in older people. Thus, the highest risk is borne by people over 60 years of age. In addition to this group of people, people with pre-existing conditions are particularly at risk. People with high blood pressure, diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, chronic respiratory diseases and cancer are significantly more at risk compared to healthy people. It becomes dangerous when both factors combine, advanced age and pre-existing conditions. Unfortunately, the elderly group is more likely to suffer from one or more diseases. This makes the situation so personal, even for each individual: Your own grandma, your own grandfather, your parents.

Are there comparable examples to COVID-19?

Examples from the near past were the severe respiratory syndrome “SARS” in 2003 and the respiratory syndrome coronavirus also known as “MERS” in 2012 in the Middle East.

Is the coronavirus dangerous for humans?

Viruses are part of our normal life, they are widespread and integrated in humans and animals. The coronavirus, as described above, typically causes an infection of the upper respiratory tract, like a cold. Many infected people often do not even notice that they are already affected by the virus.

Since one cannot become immune to this virus, there is a possibility that most people will be infected once or more times from these viruses.

Infection with human coronavirus usually resolves itself, while others feel extremely unwell, up to really severe illness. Especially the elderly and people with pre-existing conditions are at risk.

Rarely, coronaviruses that infect animals can evolve into a new human coronavirus.

COVID-19 – How is it different from the flu?

Source: German Family Insurance

Seasonally, the number of new influenza infections is on the rise again. According to the RKI (as of 17.03.2020), more than 145,000 people in Germany have contracted influenza since last autumn. 247 died from it. In the 2017/18 flu season, 25,100 people died. According to the RKI, this is the highest number in 30 years.

According to current data from Johns Hopkins University as of 19 March 2020, 12,327 people in Germany have been infected with Sars-CoV-2. 28 people have died from the consequences so far. Worldwide, there are 218,815 known infected people and 8,810 deaths due to COVID-19.

China: Where is Wuhan located?

The coronavirus outbreak began in Wuhan, China. The virus spread rapidly around the world. Then, on March 11, the WHO (World Trade Organization) finally declared COVID-19 a pandemic. 2 out of 3 people infected with the virus suffer an outbreak.

What does CFR (mortality) mean?

In China, the overall CFR was very high in the initial phase of the outbreak. CFR stands for “case fatality rate”. It refers to the “lethality” of a disease. More precisely, it refers to the disease or poisoning or the probability of dying from a disease. The CFR thus calculates the ratio of deaths to the number of people who have fallen ill or been poisoned.

Especially because there were no comparisons and there was no lead time. Initially, the CFR was 17.3%, which means that on average 1 in 6 people died. The CFR was reduced to 7% by February 1 thanks to better equipment, testing, precautions and a general improvement in the standard of care. This means that with proper control, the condition can be stabilized.

Preventing viruses: Washing hands as a preventive measure

In order to protect yourself first and foremost, and also to protect those around you from infection, you should follow the tips of the Federal Ministry thoroughly. This includes thorough hand washing in 5 steps:

1. Hold your hands under running water
2. Soap Thoroughly soap the hands
3. Thorough hand washing takes 20 to 30 seconds
4. Pay attention to: Palms, backs of hands, fingertips, interdigital spaces and thumbs, as well as fingernails, which are forgotten by most people.
5. Rinse hands under running water
6. Dry carefully

Information on the coronavirus: current

Please contact your health care professional if you think you may be affected. You can always find updated official information here: Federal Centre for Health Education.

Coronavirus hotlines

As soon as you notice the manifestations of the coronavirus, contact your family doctor by phone. Furthermore, you can contact the medical on-call service under 116117 and ask for further steps.

• Independent Patient Advice Service Germany – 0800 011 77 22
• Federal Ministry of Health (Citizens’ Helpline) – 030 346 465 100
• General initial information and contact mediation – public authority number 115
• Advisory Service for the Deaf and Hearing Impaired – Fax: 030 / 340 60 66 – 07 info.deaf@bmg.bund(dot)de / info.gehoerlos@bmg.bund(dot)de
• Sign telephone (video telephony) – https://www.gebaerdentelefon.de/bmg/