What factors truly determine the value and marketability of a property today? Current customer preferences are rapidly evolving, particularly regarding energy efficiency and location. Discover how to optimally position your property.
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The topic briefly and concisely
Energy efficiency is the dominant factor in customer preferences and significantly influences property prices (up to a 2.5% price increase for top classes).
Moderate price increases of 2-4% are expected in 2025, particularly in urban areas and for energy-efficient properties.
Buyers are price-conscious and take renovation costs into account; a professional valuation is essential for sellers.
The German real estate market is entering a dynamic phase in 2025. After price adjustments and interest rate changes, the cards have been reshuffled. For owners, heirs, and investors, it is crucial to have a clear understanding of current customer preferences. This article examines key trends, from energy efficiency to regional hotspots, and shows you how to make data-driven decisions for your real estate success. An accurate market valuation is the first step.
In Brief: Current Customer Preferences in Focus
The real estate market in 2025 is heavily influenced by changing buyer expectations. Energy efficiency is a dominant factor, with price increases of up to 2.5% for top classes. At the same time, experts predict moderate overall price increases of 2-4%, especially in urban centres. The demand for properties in good locations with solid infrastructure remains consistently high.
Energy Efficiency: The New Standard for Property Values
The energy efficiency of a property has become one of the most important criteria for prospective buyers. Properties with energy classes A+, A, and B experienced price increases of 1.9% to 2.5% year-on-year. In contrast, properties in class H saw prices fall by 5.7%. This trend highlights how much buyers are considering long-term operating costs and sustainability in their decisions. However, almost half of the properties offered (approximately 47%) fall into efficiency classes D or worse, often indicating a need for refurbishment. Sellers of less efficient properties must therefore expect price reductions or invest in energy renovations. A professional valuation helps accurately assess the current market value. The focus on energy efficiency is sustainably changing customer preferences and will shape the market in the coming years.
Regional Differences: Where Is Selling Property Particularly Worthwhile?
The demand and price trends vary greatly by region. Metropolises like Berlin, Munich, and Hamburg continue to see high demand and price increases of up to 2.3% in the second quarter of 2024 compared to the previous quarter. However, medium-sized cities like Leipzig and Dresden are also coming into the focus of investors and buyers. Rural regions with good transport connections and high quality of life are also benefiting, while structurally weak areas may stagnate or even see price declines. The vacancy rate in cities like Berlin is only 1%, highlighting the pressure on the housing market. These regional dynamics reflect the diverse customer preferences. For an accurate assessment of your local market opportunities, an individual analysis is essential.
The following aspects significantly influence the attractiveness of locations:
Infrastructure and transport connections: Good access to public transport and motorways can increase value by up to 15%.
Local amenities and social facilities: Supermarkets, schools, and doctors nearby are decisive purchase factors for 70% of families.
Leisure and recreational opportunities: Parks and green spaces in the vicinity can increase property value by 5-10%.
Economic development and employment opportunities: Regions with strong economic growth attract more buyers.
These factors show that it’s not just the property itself, but also its surroundings that strongly influence customer preferences.
Financing and Market Dynamics: What Moves Buyers
The European Central Bank (ECB) has cut key interest rates multiple times in 2024, which has noticeably reduced financing costs for property buyers. This has boosted demand. Experts anticipate moderate price increases of between 2% and 4% for 2025. The decreased mortgage rates make properties more affordable again for a wider range of buyers. Nevertheless, buyers remain price-conscious and accurately calculate renovation costs, especially for energy-efficient measures. Around 40% of buyers are willing to compromise on features as long as the location and energy efficiency are right. Therefore, a transparent presentation of all costs and realistic pricing are crucial. Use the Auctoa ImmoGPT chat to quickly address initial questions about valuation and financing.
The Role of Digitalisation and Modern Equipment
Alongside energy efficiency and location, digital aspects and modern features are becoming more significant in influencing customer preferences. Around 30% of younger buyers (up to 45 years) consider smart home technologies an important criterion. For over 80% of buyers, a fast internet connection is a must. Flexible floor plans, such as those enabling home offices, are also in demand. A property that is technologically up-to-date and meets modern living needs can achieve a 5-10% higher sale price. Think beyond the viewing day and showcase digital advantages too. Investment in such features can definitely be worthwhile.
Key features for buyers include:
Modern heating system (named as a top-3 criterion by 75% of buyers)
High-quality windows and insulation (crucial for 68%)
Contemporary bathroom fittings (desired by 60%)
Fitted kitchen in good condition (a plus for 55%)
Balcony, terrace, or garden (preferred by over 70% of seekers)
Fast internet connection (essential for 82%)
Charging station for electric cars (a topic for 25% of new build interest)
These points illustrate that buyers today expect a combination of energy efficiency, comfort, and future-proofing.
Challenges and Opportunities for Sellers and Heirs
For sellers and heirs, the current market situation means that a thorough understanding of customer preferences is essential. Only around 10% of available existing properties belong to the sought-after energy efficiency classes A+ to B. This presents a challenge if one's own property does not meet these standards. At the same time, it offers opportunities for properties that have already been renovated or where the potential for energy upgrades is clearly communicated. A professional, objective property valuation by Auctoa takes all these factors into account and helps you set a market-appropriate price. 'Get in touch now without obligation' to discuss your situation. The sales process requires strategic preparation to target the right buyers.
customer preferences
Customer preferences in the German real estate market for 2025 are clearly defined: energy efficiency, a good location, and modern amenities are at the forefront. Buyers are well-informed and price-conscious. A realistic assessment of a property's value, based on these preferences, is crucial for a successful and swift sale. With a data-driven evaluation and strategy from Auctoa, you are well-equipped. Understand your target audience's desires – this is your path to the optimal sales revenue.
Additional useful links
Wikipedia offers a comprehensive overview of the real estate market in Germany.
Statistisches Bundesamt (Destatis) provides detailed information on construction prices and the property price index.
Statistisches Bundesamt (Destatis) supplies tables on house and land prices.
Deutsche Bundesbank offers an indicator system for the residential property market.
ZIA (Zentraler Immobilien Ausschuss) publishes press releases and studies on future scenarios in the real estate industry, with a focus on sustainability and digitalisation.
VDIV (Verband der Immobilienverwalter Deutschland) provides information on current developments such as the increasing demand for green properties.
Technische Universität Darmstadt offers a results report on the Transparency Prize Real Estate (TPI).
EY publishes studies on digitalisation in the real estate sector, such as the EY Real Estate Digitalisation Study 2024.
GdW Bundesverband deutscher Wohnungs- und Immobilienunternehmen provides housing market data and trends for 2023-2024.
FAQ
How can I determine the value of my property in light of current customer preferences?
A professional property valuation by experts like Auctoa is the best approach. We take into account current market data, regional trends, and specific customer preferences such as energy efficiency, location, and features to determine a realistic market value. 'Request a free quote'
Is it worth having an energy-efficient renovation before selling?
That depends on the individual case. An energy-efficient renovation can significantly increase value and sales prospects, as energy-efficient properties are in high demand. A cost-benefit analysis, which we can conduct as part of an assessment, helps in making the decision.
Which documents are important for the sale to cater to customer preferences?
A current energy performance certificate is essential. Floor plans, proof of modernisations, minutes of owners’ meetings (for flats), and a detailed property description that addresses relevant customer requirements are also important.
How does the location influence customer preferences?
The location remains a top criterion. Customer preferences focus on good infrastructure, local amenities, transport links, and leisure and recreational options. Urban locations are often preferred, but attractive rural areas are also in demand.
How can Auctoa help me to sell my property optimally?
Auctoa provides you with data-driven, AI-assisted property valuations that take current customer preferences into account. We offer strategic advice to help you position your property optimally on the market and achieve the best possible sales revenue. 'Jetzt gratis mit ImmoGPT chatten'
What impact do the current interest rates have on the purchasing decision?
The ECB's lowered key interest rates have made property financing more attractive and stimulated demand. Buyers generally find they can afford more again, but remain price-conscious and carefully consider the overall costs.
