Market Analysis
Investment market Berlin 2016
Berlin real estate 2016: Brookfield buys at Potsdamer Platz as investor confidence holds
Studies by PwC and Ernst & Young confirm Berlin as one of Europe's most sought after real estate markets. Canadian investor Brookfield has now acquired 17 properties at Potsdamer Platz.
Peter Guthmann
Berlin ranks among Europe's most sought after real estate markets. That is according to current studies by PwC and Ernst & Young Real Estate GmbH, which surveyed fund managers, institutional investors, and investment companies. Apartments in Berlin are considered a particularly popular asset class, but commercial and specialty properties are also on shopping lists.
From population decline to investor magnet
The turnaround is striking. Between 1995 and 2001, Berlin was losing residents. Many moved to the Brandenburg suburbs, and the western inner city boroughs were considered losers. Today, barely anyone remembers. The arts and culture scene, the growing tech sector, and the city's role as the seat of government draw people from across Germany and beyond. Unlike in the past, many newcomers to Berlin come to stay.
What drives the market
Steady migration continues to increase pressure on the housing market. At the same time, historically low interest rates push transaction volumes higher. According to the E&Y and PwC studies, investor risk appetite is also increasing. Many expect prices to keep rising until at least 2030.
Brookfield buys 17 buildings at Potsdamer Platz
A concrete example: Canadian investor Brookfield has acquired 17 properties at Potsdamer Platz, including the Mandala Hotel and the Cinemaxx cinema. The total floor area amounts to 270,000 square meters. Brookfield had previously purchased the Park Inn hotel at Alexanderplatz. According to press reports, the investor sees significant appreciation potential in both locations within the borough of Mitte.
Demand is also growing beyond prime locations
It is not just the center that attracts interest. Investors looking for yield potential are increasingly turning to emerging boroughs like Neukoelln or Lichtenberg. The combination of population growth, economic development, and still comparatively moderate prices makes these locations interesting for investment buyers.