Potsdam

Country

Population

180,334

Renting

3 Things...

1. Potsdam is home to the stunning Sanssouci Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site, which was the summer residence of Frederick the Great, King of Prussia. The palace and its gardens are often referred to as the "Versailles of Germany." 2. The city has a rich history in film production and is known for its Babelsberg Studio, one of the oldest film studios in the world, which has produced numerous notable films and television series. 3. Potsdam is famous for its unique "Dutch Quarter," a neighborhood built in the 18th century that features over 130 red-brick houses, making it the largest collection of Dutch-style architecture outside the Netherlands.

Organisations

IfaF Urbane Zukunft

Unlisted Orgs

Population (AI)

178,150

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Last edited

Sep 30, 2024 6:49 PM

Category

Local programs

Housing Market

The housing market in Potsdam, Germany, is characterized by a significant shortage of affordable housing, leading to a housing crisis. Unlike many European countries where homeownership is prevalent, Germany has a high percentage of renters, with around 54% of the population renting their homes. In Potsdam, this trend is also observed, with a substantial portion of residents renting rather than owning. The city faces challenges such as high demand for affordable housing, historic rent increases, and insufficient supply. The average rent per square meter in Potsdam is high, making it difficult for low-income households to find affordable accommodations. The city's efforts to address this crisis include state-subsidized construction of apartments and increased housing allowances. However, these measures are often seen as insufficient, and there is a pressing need for more substantial financial incentives to encourage investors to build affordable housing. The city's housing policies aim to balance the need for affordable housing with the financial constraints of the current market, but the situation remains critical.

Further Actors?

Cooperatives

Housing cooperatives in Potsdam, Germany, play a significant role in providing affordable housing and promoting community-driven, sustainable living. These cooperatives offer democratic governance and social equality, making them attractive in times of rising housing costs. In Potsdam, housing cooperatives account for a notable share of the rental market, though specific data on their market share is not provided in the sources. New housing cooperatives have emerged in recent years, contributing to the growth of this sector. For example, entities like **Diese eG** in Berlin have been established, despite facing challenges such as state subsidies and market speculation. The city supports housing cooperatives through various initiatives, including financial assistance and subsidies. For instance, the American housing cooperative described in the sources was founded in 1990 with financial assistance from the city, enabling low-income members to reside there. Potsdam promotes cooperative housing by fostering community involvement and supportive frameworks. The city aligns with broader European initiatives, such as the **New European Bauhaus**, which emphasizes inclusivity and environmental awareness. These efforts aim to ensure that housing cooperatives continue to provide affordable and sustainable housing options, addressing the pressing issue of housing affordability in the region.