ᐅ House construction costs per KfW efficiency level per square meter

Hello everyone,

I have the following question:

Are there currently any guidelines on the price per square meter for a house built to KfW 40 and KfW 55 standards? Prices have generally increased lately, and about a year ago, we were told that the price for a house meeting the KfW 55 standard was around 2100-2200 €/m² (approximately 195-205 USD/ft²). Are there any updated benchmark figures?

We understand that these figures can’t provide exact cost calculations, but we would appreciate updated reference values.

We have the opportunity to apply for a plot where building a KfW 40 standard house earns more social points. Through this, we want to assess whether aiming for these additional points is feasible or if we should continue planning with the KfW 55 standard (the minimum requirement in the new development area).

Since this might depend on the region: We are located in the northern part of North Rhine-Westphalia.

Thank you very much for your support!

That depends on the house and the general contractor; we requested both and received offers of 55 and 40.

We initially received an offer for a KfW 55 house and then the additional cost for KfW 40+.

The KfW 55 price already included a controlled residential ventilation system (Zehnder Q350 for 20,000€ including installation, casing, outlets, etc.) and an air-to-water heat pump from Wolf (separate price unknown to me).

On top of this KfW 55 price, there were 15,000€ for additional/better insulation and 33,000€ for a photovoltaic system (18 kWp) with storage (12 kW). We could have also chosen a smaller system for 26,000€, including storage.

You should not forget that you also receive 20,000€ more in cash grants from the KfW. Depending on your federal state, there is also a 40% subsidy for the storage system.

My figures are based on 220 m² (2,368 sq ft) of living space.

2100/2200 €/sqm is completely unrealistic in my area (Bavaria, but 50 km (30 miles) from a larger city).

2800 €/sqm is the current average from the general contractor for the Energy Saving Ordinance.

Exceptions prove the rule, and with own labor or compromises it of course gets cheaper...

P.S. Just read that you also mentioned your region. You can ignore my post then :-)
I'll leave it here as information for others anyway.

But: such a statement is actually not very helpful.

Let’s talk about living area—according to which calculation method? Which standard (there are homeowners who even in 2021 choose not to have underfloor heating or electric shutters), KNX automation yes or no, photovoltaic system/battery storage, fireplace, hardwood floors or laminate, controlled mechanical ventilation, etc. The variations are practically endless.

Estimating costs based on price per square meter is a common approach but not very effective. Look at what you can get with your desired budget and compare it to your requirements. A suitable 140 m² (1507 sq ft) house can be much better than a less suitable 160 m² (1722 sq ft) house. It might have a different design, and both houses could cost the same.

If you want to calculate a rough estimate using €/m² (€/sq ft), assume at least 2500 €/m² (232 sq ft) and be prepared to contribute your own labor. The additional costs for higher KfW efficiency class ratings are not fully covered by the increased subsidies, that much can be said.