German housing permits rise, but builders still lack orders
Germany approved 169,400 homes in January–August 2026, up 12.1% year on year. An ifo survey shows that residential builders still face weak order books.
More homes approved
Germany’s Federal Statistical Office reported on 16 October 2026 that 20,600 homes were approved in August, 6.8% more than in August 2025. This total includes new construction and additional homes created by converting existing buildings.
From January to August 2026, approvals totalled 169,400 homes, up 12.1% from the same period a year earlier. Approval figures can be revised when local authorities report permits later.
Builders still report a shortage of orders
In its September survey, the ifo Institute found that sentiment among residential construction firms fell to −25.1 points, from −22.5 in August. Firms were particularly cautious about business over the coming months.
Some 41.3% of surveyed firms reported a lack of orders, while 14.1% reported cancelled projects. The survey describes business sentiment and order books; it does not measure the number of completed homes.
What the two figures mean for housing supply
More permits may support future construction, but approval alone does not mean a home has been built or placed on the market. The ifo survey points to continued pressure on builders’ order books.
For a specific development, buyers should check its construction progress and stated completion timetable. Local supply depends on which approved projects actually proceed and reach completion.
Sources: Destatis, 16 October 2026; ifo Institute, 16 October 2026. The image is illustrative.
