Engel & VölkersEngel & Völkers

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What are the heating systems of the future?

Whether it's a new building or the modernisation of an old building: Anyone planning an upgrade of their heating system should take a closer look at the heating systems of the future. Because while fossil fuel heating systems are usually cheap to buy, they will cost a lot of money to operate over the next few years. Natural gas and heating oil are dependent on the world market and at the same time are only available in limited quantities. This is why heating systems based on heating oil or natural gas are not future-proof. Fossil fuels are also subject to carbon tax, which makes them even more expensive. Modern heating systems using renewable energy sources such as solar or heat pumps protect the environment. Energy from the sun, the air, the earth or the water is available for free. This greatly reduces energy costs in the future. Energy-efficient heating systems make property owners more independent of energy suppliers and politics. Heating systems such as heat pumps, solar thermal energy or heating with biomass contribute to the transition of the heating sector as a significant part of the energy transition. But which heating system of the future is the right one for old or new buildings?

  • 9 min read
  • 20.05.2022
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Financing your second investment property

Buying a second property is a goal for many capital investors and prudent families. Perhaps you’re considering a weekend getaway, looking for a future retirement property, wanting to size up and rent your current home, or thinking about an investment to pass on to your children. Whatever your reason, you’ll need a solid financial plan.

  • 4 min read
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Vacation Homes Mexico: Your dream property under the Mexican sun

Mexico is increasingly becoming one of the most sought-after destinations for investors looking to acquire vacation homes Mexico as a second residence or profitable investment. With its cultural diversity, stunning beaches, and attractive real estate market, the country offers ideal conditions for purchasing property. This comprehensive guide informs you about everything you need to know about vacation homes for sale in Mexico.

  • 5 min read
  • 23.09.2025
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What is a land register and what is a land register entry?

When buying a house, the land register entry offers optimal security, because it is almost like a biography of the house. The land register contains information on the origins, the owners and the Real estate financing. The land register entry is reliable and shows ownership of a property in a legally binding form.

  • 4 min read
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Buy a holiday home with Engel & Völkers

Whether it’s a holiday home, weekend retreat, or investment property – what really matters when buying a holiday property.

  • 4 min read
  • 10.08.2026
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Agreement on the Building Energy Act: What will be important for Hamburg property owners

As one of the most polarising topics in the political discourse, the amendment to the Building Energy Act energy law is also occupying the owners of houses, flats and other properties in Hamburg Obligation to retrofit for older heating systems in favour of the heating transition in Germany was debated in the media and in public, and it took a long time for the coalition parties to reach a consensus. In mid-June 2023, an internal government Agreement has now been reached, which is considered a promising basis for adoption in the Bundestag. In this article, your estate agent for the north-east of Hamburg, Engel & Völkers Alstertal, would like to summarise for you the changes that the so-called "Heating Act" will bring for owners of houses and flats and why this is particularly important in Hamburg can be expected to be implemented more quickly than at federal level. Find out more now!

  • 3 min read
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Yield and factor - how can you recognise a worthwhile investment?

The two main indicators for an investment in a residential and commercial building are the yield on the one hand and the factor on the other. To calculate the Return (gross yield), the annual net cold rent is divided by the purchase price. This guideline value provides an initial point of reference for sounding out the available properties on the market and comparing them with each other. However, it should be borne in mind that this figure does not include non-apportionable operating costs or maintenance and refurbishment costs.

  • 3 min read
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Your guide to student accommodation investment

The student housing market is heating up in german university towns, with investors racing to finance new purpose-built developments. If you’re interested in a high-yield student accommodation investment, here are a few considerations.

  • 4 min read
  • 26.10.2018
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Property prices Canada: Is buying real estate in Canada worth it?

The Canada real estate market is attracting more and more international investors. Whether as a capital investment, vacation home, or long-term wealth strategy – property prices Canada offer attractive entry opportunities compared to other global metropolises. In this article, you will learn everything about current real estate prices Canada, regional differences, legal framework conditions for house purchase in Canada, and why purchasing property in Canada remains an interesting option despite new regulations.

  • 5 min read
  • 16.12.2025
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Best ways to finance your home

Who wants to pay rent when financing a property is so cheap at the moment? The low construction interest rates make buying a house or a flat particularly attractive at the moment. However, there are many things to consider when financing - for example, interest rates are very likely to rise again in the next few years. That's why comparing different financial service providers can save you a lot of money, especially when it comes to real estate financing.

  • 4 min read
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Contact

Contact your personal advisor

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Engel & Völkers Germany

Vancouverstraße 2a

20457 Hamburg, Germany

Tel: +49 40 361310