What types of real estate are there?

We explain all types of real estate and provide information about real estate.

All about immovables

In this section, you'll find information on the types of properties and all topics related to real estate. This includes our current listings for sale and requests.Please feel free to send us a non-binding inquiry via email. Information and viewings are always free of charge. Fees only apply when the property is actually sold or rented!

Sales and rental offers

Here you will find our sales and rental offers. Please understand that you will not find all of our offers here on our website. We also publish some on the larger real estate portals.

Sales & rental offers

Rental and purchase requests

Here you'll find our rental and purchase requests. Please understand that you will not find all of our offers here on our website. We only publish some on the larger real estate portals.

Rental & purchase requests

All types of residential properties

In this report, we cover all types of residential properties. The information covers all types of houses and apartments, for example.

All types of residential properties

All types of commercial real estate

In this report, we cover all types of commercial real estate. The information covers all types of offices, hotels, and restaurants, for example.

Commercial real estate

The hotel broker

Read about the special job and knowledge of the real estate agents, who are specialized on hotels or other kinds of accommodations.

Hotel broker cologne
dom hotel cologne
dom hotel cologne





Real estate market reports of cologne

Here you find numerous quarterly reports from the real estate sector for all districts of Cologne.

Cologne Alstadt-Nord

Cologne Alstadt-Süd

Cologne Bayenthal




New Construction Projects in Cologne: Planning and Progress in 2025

Parkstadt Süd: Breathing Life into Raderberg's Historic Core

The Parkstadt Süd initiative stands out as one of Cologne's most ambitious urban renewal efforts, weaving together the city's green heritage with contemporary living spaces. Centered around the iconic Großmarkthalle in the Raderberg area, this project promises to close the loop on the Innerer Grüngürtel, creating a seamless belt of parks and pathways that locals have dreamed about for years. As of mid-2025, the buzz around here is palpable—workers in hard hats mingle with joggers testing out the newly opened trails.

What started as a vision for sustainable density is now taking tangible shape, with several thousand new apartments on the horizon alongside sleek office blocks and bustling commercial spots. The recent opening of the Sportpionierpark in March 2025 has already drawn families from across the city, its playgrounds and sports fields serving as a preview of the greener, more livable neighborhood to come. Planners are pushing hard for climate neutrality, incorporating everything from rainwater harvesting systems to bike-friendly designs that could make car ownership feel optional.

Public input has been key, with events like the fifth Thementalk in July 2025 sparking lively debates on how to repurpose the old market hall, maybe as a cultural hub or food market revival. While full completion stretches into the late 2020s, the phased rollout means residents can already enjoy bits of the transformation, like the relocated Kölner NeuLand Garten that's become a weekend staple for picnics and community events.

Deutzer Hafen: A Waterfront Revival with JSWD's Winning Vision

Over in Deutzer Hafen, the air smells of possibility mixed with the Rhine's familiar breeze, as construction crews lay the groundwork for what could redefine Cologne's eastern skyline. The winning design by JSWD Architekten for the first building site, Baufeld Ost 03, captures that perfect blend of industrial grit and modern flair—think lofts where artists and entrepreneurs can live and work under one roof. This 38-hectare stretch along the river is set to sprout around 3,000 new homes, breathing fresh energy into an area long dominated by warehouses and cranes.

It's not just about stacking bricks; the plan weaves in about 6,000 jobs, from tech startups to logistics pros, ensuring the harbor stays true to its roots while evolving. Families will find spots too, with kindergartens, a full school, and pockets of gastronomy popping up to turn quiet docks into lively promenades. The Danish firm COBE handled the urban blueprint, emphasizing open spaces that invite riverside strolls and pop-up markets on sunny afternoons.

Though timelines are fluid, with the first phase eyeing a ramp-up in late 2025, early renders show a commitment to eco-smarts—green roofs, solar integrations, and flood-resilient designs that nod to the Rhine's moods. Locals are watching closely, hoping this sparks a wave of similar revamps along the waterfront, making Cologne's harbor a destination rather than a detour.

Ringviertel Renewal: VivaWest's Push for Affordable Urban Homes

Tucked into the southern charm of Rodenkirchen's Ringviertel, a fresh wave of housing is stirring up the neighborhood, courtesy of VivaWest's latest venture. They've snapped up two prime plots totaling 14,400 square meters along the Ringstraße, gearing up to erect four residential buildings packed with 209 apartments ranging from cozy one-bedrooms to spacious five-room family pads. Groundbreaking is slated for early 2026, but the planning fervor is already transforming quiet streets into sites of speculation and excitement.

What's drawing eyes here is the mix: 51 units are publicly funded and rent-capped, a lifeline for young professionals and families squeezed by Cologne's skyrocketing costs. Every home hits the Effizienzhaus 40 QNG standard, warmed by heat pumps and topped with photovoltaic panels that could slash energy bills and carbon footprints alike. A basement garage with 136 spots keeps things practical, while green play areas out front promise kid-friendly oases amid the urban hum.

By mid-2029, when the keys are handed over as turnkey gems, this corner of the city might feel worlds away from its current self—more inclusive, more efficient, and a tad greener. Partnerships with Bauwens Development and Convalor Projektpartner have smoothed the path, but it's the focus on real affordability that's got residents talking, wondering if this model could ripple out to other tight-knit districts.

The Ten-Point Plan: A Blueprint for Affordable Living Across Cologne

Cologne's housing crunch has everyone from councilors to coffee shop owners hashing out solutions, and the freshly unveiled Zehn-Punkte-Plan is stepping into the fray with a no-nonsense approach to cranking out more affordable digs. Pushed by heavyweights like the Kölner Haus- und Grundbesitzerverein and the BFW-Landesverband, this roadmap declares building as the city's top boss-level priority, aiming to pump out 6,000 new units a year—triple the recent pace.

At its heart, the plan slashes red tape: borrowing from Hamburg's playbook to dial back building regs, fast-track the federal Bauturbo for quicker approvals, and tweak green space mandates that often balloon costs. It's all about balance—prioritizing CO2 cuts over nitpicky efficiency rules, securing steady funding for subsidized builds, and easing up on long-term land leases that tie owners' hands. Oberbürgermeister Torsten Burmester and the incoming council are squarely in the crosshairs, with calls to overhaul land sales that sideline private builders.

As of October 2025, the ink's barely dry, but early momentum suggests this could be the spark for a construction boom. Imagine neighborhoods swelling with starter homes and renovated classics, all without the usual bureaucratic snags that stretch projects to five years. It's a pragmatic pivot, one that locals hope turns policy talk into shovel-ready reality before the waitlists grow any longer.

Viva Agrippina and Beyond: High-Rise Horizons in the City Center

Downtown Cologne is gearing up for a vertical leap with projects like Viva Agrippina, where 286 premium apartments are set to crown the skyline by the end of 2025. This isn't your standard stack-and-pack; it's laced with communal lounges and rooftop terraces that scream urban escape, redefining what city living can feel like amid the Dom's shadow. Developers are betting big on quality over quantity, crafting spaces that lure in the creative crowd tired of suburban commutes.

Meanwhile, the Clouth-Quartier in the old rubber factory grounds has wrapped up its 88-unit phase, blending history with hip—think exposed brick lofts rubbing shoulders with trendy shops. It's a template for industrial rebirth, showing how faded factories can flip into vibrant quarters without losing their soul. Further afield, MesseCity's office towers and hotels are rising next to the Koelnmesse, priming the trade fair hub for another decade of deal-making and downtime alike.

These builds are interconnected threads in Cologne's growth tapestry, each pulling in sustainability creds like DGNB certifications for spots like Mattes & Düxx, due in 2026. With Köln mobil 2025 layering on transport upgrades—more trams, bike lanes, and pedestrian perks—these towers won't just stand tall; they'll connect a city that's outgrowing its seams.




The House – A Timeless Property Type

When it comes to real estate, the house remains one of the most desirable and versatile property types worldwide. Whether used as a primary residence, vacation home, or investment property, a house offers a unique combination of privacy, space, and lifestyle flexibility that is hard to match.

Definition of a House

A house is a detached or semi-detached building designed for residential purposes. Unlike apartments or condominiums, houses typically stand on their own plot of land and are structurally independent from neighboring units. They can vary significantly in size, layout, and architectural style depending on location, cultural influences, and personal preference.

Main Characteristics

  • Independent Structure: Not connected to other buildings, providing maximum privacy.
  • Private Land: Includes outdoor space such as a garden, yard, or driveway.
  • Multiple Floors: Often consists of one or more stories, allowing for separate living and sleeping areas.
  • Customizable: Owners have more freedom to renovate or expand compared to units within multi-family buildings.

Advantages of Owning a House

  • Privacy and Space: Detached houses offer peace and quiet with no shared walls.
  • Outdoor Living: Gardens, patios, and backyards provide room for recreation and relaxation.
  • Family-Friendly: Ideal for larger households, children, or pets.
  • Long-Term Investment: Houses often appreciate steadily in value, especially in desirable locations.
  • Greater Control: Freedom to modify, landscape, or add structures as desired (subject to local regulations).

Disadvantages to Consider

  • Higher Maintenance: Owners are fully responsible for all repairs, maintenance, and upkeep.
  • Costs: Purchase price, taxes, insurance, and utilities can be higher than other property types.
  • Location: Houses are often located in suburban or rural areas, which may involve longer commutes.

Popular House Types

  • Detached Single-Family Home: A stand-alone residence for one household.
  • Semi-Detached House: Shares one wall with a neighboring unit.
  • Townhouse: Multi-story homes in rows with shared walls on both sides.
  • Bungalow: A single-story house, often with a simple, open floor plan.
  • Villa: A luxurious home, often with a large garden or pool, typically found in vacation destinations.

Ideal Buyers

Houses are particularly suited for:

  • Families seeking space and privacy
  • Retirees looking for peaceful living with personal gardens
  • Investors interested in long-term value growth or rental income
  • Remote workers who require extra space for home offices

Our Conclusion and statement

The house remains one of the most traditional yet highly valued property types in the global real estate market. It offers not only a place to live but a place to grow, relax, and create lasting memories. Whether you're looking for a permanent home or a secure investment, owning a house continues to be a strong and rewarding choice.

The Apartment – Modern Urban Living

The apartment is one of the most popular and versatile types of residential property in urban and metropolitan areas. It offers a practical, efficient, and often affordable housing solution for singles, couples, small families, and professionals alike. From compact studios to luxurious penthouses, apartments cater to a wide variety of needs and lifestyles.

Definition of an Apartment

An apartment is a self-contained residential unit that occupies part of a building, typically one of many similar units. Apartments can be rented or owned (in the case of condominiums) and are usually located in multi-story residential complexes or buildings.

Key Characteristics

  • Shared Structure: Apartments are located within buildings that house multiple units, sharing common walls, floors, and ceilings.
  • Efficient Use of Space: Layouts are optimized for practical and convenient living, often with open-plan designs.
  • Common Facilities: Many buildings offer shared amenities such as elevators, laundry rooms, parking garages, fitness areas, or gardens.
  • Ownership Options: Apartments may be rented or purchased, with condominium models offering individual ownership of units and shared ownership of common areas.

Advantages of Apartment Living

  • Affordability: Compared to houses, apartments are often more cost-effective in terms of both purchase price and maintenance.
  • Low Maintenance: Building management often handles repairs, landscaping, and common area maintenance.
  • Urban Location: Apartments are usually situated in central areas with access to public transport, shops, schools, and workplaces.
  • Security: Many apartment buildings feature secure entry systems, intercoms, and sometimes doormen or security personnel.
  • Community Living: Residents often benefit from a sense of community, shared amenities, and organized activities.

Potential Drawbacks

  • Limited Space: Apartments may offer less living space compared to detached homes, especially in inner-city locations.
  • Noise: Close proximity to neighbors can result in increased noise levels.
  • Less Privacy: Shared walls and common areas reduce personal privacy.
  • Restrictions: Some apartment complexes have rules about pets, renovations, or subletting.

Common Apartment Types

  • Studio Apartment: A single room that combines living, sleeping, and cooking areas, with a separate bathroom.
  • One-Bedroom Apartment: A unit with a separate bedroom, living room, kitchen, and bathroom.
  • Duplex / Maisonette: A two-level apartment within a multi-story building.
  • Penthouse: A luxurious unit on the top floor, often featuring panoramic views and high-end finishes.
  • Loft: A large open space, often converted from former industrial buildings, with high ceilings and minimal partitions.

Ideal For

Apartments are particularly suitable for:

  • Urban professionals and commuters
  • Young couples and students
  • Small families seeking convenience
  • Retirees who prefer low-maintenance living
  • Investors seeking rental income in high-demand areas

Investment Perspective

From an investment standpoint, apartments offer several advantages:

  • High rental demand in cities ensures steady income
  • Lower entry costs compared to detached houses
  • Easier property management with professional building services
  • Potential for capital appreciation in growing urban centers

Conclusion for the apartment

The apartment continues to be a cornerstone of modern living, offering practical solutions for people of all ages and lifestyles. Its adaptability, cost-efficiency, and location benefits make it one of the most sought-after property types, especially in metropolitan areas. Whether you're looking to rent, buy, or invest, an apartment provides flexibility and access to everything city life has to offer.

Kranhaus

Real Estate: A Comprehensive Overview

Real estate is one of the most important sectors in the global economy. It encompasses land, buildings, and the rights associated with ownership and usage. Whether residential, commercial, industrial, or land-based, real estate plays a central role in personal wealth, business development, and urban planning.

Definition of Real Estate

Real estate refers to physical property consisting of land and any structures on it, including houses, buildings, and natural resources like water or minerals. It is a tangible asset and can be used for residential living, commercial activity, or investment purposes.

Main Categories of Real Estate

  • Residential Real Estate: Includes single-family homes, apartments, condominiums, townhouses, and vacation properties.
  • Commercial Real Estate: Properties used for business purposes, such as office buildings, retail centers, hotels, and restaurants.
  • Industrial Real Estate: Includes warehouses, factories, and manufacturing sites used for production and storage.
  • Land: Undeveloped property, agricultural land, or plots intended for future development.
  • Mixed-Use: Combines multiple uses in one property, such as residential apartments above commercial shops.

Key Features of Real Estate

  • Physical and Immovable: Real estate is a tangible asset that cannot be moved from one location to another.
  • Scarcity: Land is limited in supply, especially in desirable areas, which increases its value.
  • Appreciation: Properties often increase in value over time, depending on location and market conditions.
  • Income Potential: Real estate can generate income through rentals or business operations.
  • Ownership Rights: Include the right to occupy, lease, sell, or develop the property.

Advantages of Investing in Real Estate

  • Stability: Real estate is often considered a safe, long-term investment.
  • Passive Income: Rental properties provide steady monthly income.
  • Diversification: A valuable component of an investment portfolio to balance risk.
  • Tax Benefits: Investors may benefit from deductions and depreciation.
  • Inflation Hedge: Property values and rents often rise with inflation.

Challenges in the Real Estate Market

  • Market Fluctuations: Property values can be affected by economic conditions.
  • High Entry Costs: Buying real estate requires significant capital or financing.
  • Maintenance and Management: Owning property involves ongoing costs and responsibilities.
  • Legal and Regulatory Issues: Zoning laws, building codes, and taxes can affect ownership and use.

Trends in the Global Real Estate Market

  • Urbanization: Increasing demand in cities leads to vertical development and smart housing solutions.
  • Sustainability: Eco-friendly building materials and energy-efficient homes are becoming standard.
  • Digital Transformation: Online platforms, virtual tours, and blockchain for property transactions are changing the industry.
  • Remote Work: Shifting preferences in location and property type due to hybrid and remote work models.

Real Estate Professionals

Various professionals are involved in the real estate ecosystem:

  • Real Estate Agents and Brokers: Facilitate buying, selling, and renting of property.
  • Appraisers: Evaluate the market value of properties.
  • Property Managers: Oversee daily operations of rental properties.
  • Developers: Plan and build residential or commercial projects.
  • Investors: Purchase properties for long-term value or rental income.

So what is real estate about?

Real estate is more than just property ownership—it's a dynamic field that influences every aspect of modern life. From providing homes and workplaces to offering investment opportunities and shaping cityscapes, real estate remains a vital pillar of economic growth and personal wealth. Understanding its fundamentals, risks, and trends is essential for anyone engaging with the property market, whether as a homeowner, investor, or developer.

Weihofen REAL ESTATE

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