Expanding social housing over individual homeownership mortgage plans - Increased social housing construction outpacing home loan approvals
In the Thuringian state parliament, the Left party has voiced criticism towards the "EigenheimPlus" loan program, a private home ownership initiative presented by Steffen Schütz (BSW), the Thuringian Minister of Housing. The party argues that this program, which focuses on supporting home buyers through loans, is not an effective solution to the shortage of affordable housing and rising rents in Thuringia.
Anja Müller, the housing spokesperson for the Left party, has been vocal about her concerns. She believes that relying on loan programs for private homeowners does not adequately tackle the structural problems of housing affordability and availability, and that a public, state-led approach is necessary to effectively ensure access to affordable living space for a wider population.
The "EigenheimPlus" program, presented by the Thuringian Reconstruction Bank, targets buyers of vacant properties. It allows potential real estate buyers to apply for discounted loans at their bank. However, the Left party contends that this program does not address the issue of affordable housing and rising rents in Thuringia effectively.
In response, the Left party is renewing its demands for a state housing company in the upcoming negotiations on the 2026/27 double budget. They aim to increase the state's housing assets and actively work to increase the availability of affordable rental housing.
The issue of affordable housing and rising rents in Thuringia is a matter of concern, as indicated by the Left party's criticisms and demands. The party's call for a state housing company comes in response to the perceived ineffectiveness of the "EigenheimPlus" package, which they argue does not provide a comprehensive solution to the affordable housing crisis.
Steffen Schütz had aimed to reduce vacancy in rural areas through the "EigenheimPlus" program. However, the Left party's criticisms suggest that more radical measures may be needed to address the complex issue of housing affordability in Thuringia.
The negotiations on the 2026/27 double budget will take place in the Thuringian state parliament, where the outcome of the Left party's demands for a state housing company will be decided.
- The Left party in the Thuringian state parliament, in response to the ineffectiveness of the "EigenheimPlus" loan program, has reiterated its call for policy-and-legislation changes, such as establishing a state housing company, to address the issue of small and medium-sized undertakings facing affordable housing and rising rents.
- Amidst the concerns over the affordable housing crisis in Thuringia, the politics surrounding the 2026/27 double budget negotiations are now heavily focused on the Left party's proposals, including the creation of a state housing company, to help small and medium-sized undertakings gain access to affordable living spaces.
