ᐅ House construction costs per KfW efficiency level per square meter

Created on: 16 Aug 2021 14:37
H
HausbauProjekt
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!
Hangman17 Aug 2021 12:07
11ant schrieb:

For timber frame construction, KfW40 is achieved differently than with masonry houses: the thermal insulation is integrated, and if thicker insulation is needed, thicker studs are used, but the wood itself stays the same.

Of course, which is why mainly the timber frame enthusiasts 🙄 say it’s a straightforward task. For example, we always planned with an installation cavity. That was then simply insulated quickly, resulting in 20 + 6 cm (8 + 2.4 inches) of mineral wool plus 6 cm (2.4 inches) of plaster base = U-value of 0.13. If we had only planned with 18 cm (7 inches) studs and no installation cavity (which would have been sufficient for KfW55), the additional costs would certainly have been higher.
Overall, I found the extra costs manageable and would therefore confidently include the KfW40 points in the property application.
H
HausbauProjekt
17 Aug 2021 12:44
11ant schrieb:

Do I understand correctly that as unsuccessful applicants from last year’s lottery round a) you are not automatically included in the new lottery, and/or b) you can now decide whether to use KfW 40 bonus points? Are these the same plots of land, or are different plots being offered for KfW 40 compared to those without it?

We are not automatically included in the new round, but we received 2 points for having declined previously. There are now about 60 additional plots available. This is a large new development area with several phases. Next year will be the final phase with about 50 more plots.

We do not want to just build to KfW 40 standards, especially since we cannot really afford it.
Hangman17 Aug 2021 12:51
You seem to be an honest person, and I don’t want to lead you astray... but what if you apply for the KfW40 bonus and later find out that it’s actually not financially feasible?
H
HausbauProjekt
17 Aug 2021 13:13
Hangman schrieb:
You seem to be an honest person, and I don’t want to lead you astray... but what if you apply with the KfW40 bonus and later find out that it’s actually not affordable?

In that case, there is a contractual penalty. I cannot tell you the exact details, or the plot of land may be taken back.
D
driver55
17 Aug 2021 13:19
HausbauProjekt schrieb:

Then there is a penalty clause. I can’t tell you exactly how it looks, or the plot will be taken back.

That means/would mean, in reverse, you already have to know how expensive the plot plus house can/should/may be… 🙄 (which would be ridiculous).

If you really want to build, get a plot as soon as possible, otherwise you’ll still be asking about square meter prices for the KfW standards in 2030…
Hangman17 Aug 2021 13:40
HausbauProjekt schrieb:

Then there is a contractual penalty. I can't tell you exactly what that looks like, or the land will be taken back.


Who knows how construction costs, funding guidelines, inflation, interest rates, etc., will develop? What if Minister Hofreiter bans new detached houses?

I really can't imagine that a social points system is designed for you to bear all risks without limits. If things get really tough and you say, "We have been long-term residents of this area and want to build and stay here, but KfW40 is unfortunately no longer feasible. We truly wanted to, but since applying for the plot it has become far too expensive for us. We will donate €1,000 for the kindergarten, but please release us from this obligation," they surely won’t cut off your heads. And if they do, come to us in Sauerland... people there still have common sense 😉