German municipalities seek buyers for vacant real estate to address budget needs

The city of Starnberg is attempting to sell a 8,350-square-meter former nursery site near Lake Starnberg to address significant budget deficits. The municipality has initiated a bidding process for the property, which is slated for development into up to six individual houses. Local officials have integrated at least 27.2 million euros from this sale into the 2026 budget. Failure to secure a buyer at the expected price could lead to a budget gap and potential spending freezes starting in 2027.

In Babenhausen, a 5,300-square-meter former nursery site near the city church has also remained vacant for six years despite existing building rights for 74 apartments. The property, which faces challenges regarding groundwater levels and fire department access, is currently being marketed by a real estate company for 4.9 million euros.