ᐅ Planning a new build in the Marburg area: Best approach and steps to take

Created on: 30 Dec 2020 08:52
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rulor1992
Good morning everyone,

I could use some ideas from you.

I would like to build a house. Preferably in Marburg (although that might not be realistic). At least somewhere relatively close, like the surrounding area of Ebsdorfergrund, for example.
My girlfriend is a bit hesitant and doesn't want to think about it right now. However, we currently still live in my parents' house (400€ including utilities), so very affordable.

But that situation is not meant to last. We both work in Marburg, and personally, renting is not really an option for me since we are planning to start a family.

Regarding our financial situation... My girlfriend earns 2,000€ net per month working 80% plus a 2,000€ bonus.
For me, the financial situation is a bit more complicated because I have difficulty planning. I earn 2,500€ net per month plus a 3,000€ bonus.
Additionally, I have a secondary income that this year exceeds my main job’s income. However, that may not necessarily be the case in the future.

So, our stable income is 4,500€ net plus 5,000€ bonus. On top of that, there is 20,000€ to 50,000€ net from secondary income.
We have 100,000€ in equity, but that is more important as cash flow for the side business.

I have not been to the bank yet; I first wanted to gather some input so I could approach this more concretely.

What I have in mind: A house suitable for a family of four. It will also need some space for the business. Some costs might be deductible there. Exactly what is possible, I need to discuss with my tax advisor.

This means planning for a basement with 30-40sqm (approximately 320-430 sq ft) as storage space.
Additionally, everything should be equipped with KNX automation: lighting, blinds, heating, (possibly ventilation), and so on.

Based on the financial situation, what could be realistically feasible? How much living space does a family of four typically need? It should not be bigger than necessary.
Ultimately, my girlfriend has the final say. She wants to move sooner than I do but is not ready to deal with the topic at the moment. That will come sooner or later.

What costs should I expect if I want to build not as cheaply as possible but with good quality? What would be a suitable plot size?

Thanks a lot for your input.
H
HilfeHilfe
9 Jan 2021 15:33
Deadree schrieb:

That is a matter of opinion.
Indeed.
OWLer9 Jan 2021 15:42
rulor1992 schrieb:

I would like to build a house. Preferably in Marburg (although that might not be feasible). At least somewhere relatively close by, like Ebsdorfergrund, for example.
My girlfriend is a bit hesitant and doesn’t want to think about it right now. However, we currently still live in my parents’ house (400€ including utilities), so it’s very affordable.

If "92" is your birth year, you are both still under 30? If you agree on this, that’s perfect! You still have almost 40 years until retirement, so the loan repayment can comfortably be set to 2%, and you can/should take advantage of special repayments. You also benefit from cash flow flexibility in case a year goes badly or if, after having children and losing parental allowance, you can’t return to work immediately. I would argue that with your equity, it’s hard to save up significantly against rising prices. I don’t know how much Marburg is affected by Frankfurt’s price level.

When I moved into a house, I was closer to 40 than 30 and I would have preferred to have started building 5 years earlier. Unfortunately, back then my salary didn’t allow it, and my wife was around your (assumed) age. It wouldn’t have made sense anyway since city life with bars, restaurants, etc. was still the priority during college.

Now several of our friends over 30 have built, bought, or renovated houses, and we’re both really eager to have a house. Especially now with the coronavirus situation, where the actually nice rental apartment has proven to be quite impractical. We also realized during lockdown that cooking yourself can be really enjoyable, and clubbing in the evening is much more exhausting than a game night with friends.

When building a house, both partners need to be on the same page. Otherwise, the relationship won’t last. This is especially true regarding location and the floor plan + features. And that’s only the beginning, as I noticed during construction.

Maybe you can slowly encourage her by visiting friends’ houses more often. In summer, the garden possibilities also have great potential to spark the “I want that” feeling.