Interview: Family foundation in Germany

FIV: So that we can all get an idea, what are the big family foundations that everyone knows about?

Stephan: There are some well-known examples that most people will be familiar with. The “Krupp Foundation” and the “Siemens Foundation” are two of the best-known family foundations in Germany. Both foundations have set themselves the task of preserving the family fortune and passing it on to the next generation. However, they also support social and cultural projects. The purpose of a family foundation is primarily to secure and increase the family’s assets in the long term.

FIV: What is their purpose, why do these well-known families set up foundations?

Stephan: Large family foundations such as Krupp or Siemens are often about keeping the company and its assets in the family and protecting them across generations. The foundation separates the assets from the private assets and they cannot be sold or inherited so easily. Family foundations also enable long-term tax optimization and provide a legal framework to protect the inheritance from external influences.

FIV: We also stand for names and who has what! Can you give us a small top 3 of the larger foundations?

Stephan: Let me think for a moment.

• There is the Körber Foundation, which I believe has a volume of around 600 million euros and was founded by Kurt A. Körber,
• There is the Robert Bosch Stiftung, founded by Robert Bosch and worth a few billion euros,
• Or the Quandt Foundation, which everyone knows BMW with a volume of around 1 billion euros, founded by Johanna and Susanne Klatten.

Family foundation explained: What is it?

FIV: What exactly is a family foundation and how does it differ from other foundations?

Stephan: A family foundation is a private foundation whose main purpose is to preserve the assets of a family over generations. In contrast to charitable foundations, which focus on the common good, family foundations focus on the protection and preservation of family assets such as real estate, companies or other investments. The highlight here is that the assets are transferred to the foundation and therefore legally belong to the foundation and no longer to the founder or descendants. This offers a number of advantages, such as protection against inheritance disputes or third-party access.

What are the benefits of a family foundation?

FIV: What are the specific benefits of a family foundation? What advantages can you expect from it?

Stephan: The biggest advantage is certainly the protection of family assets. Through the foundation, the assets remain bundled and cannot be split up or sold so easily, for example in the event of a divorce or inheritance disputes. There are also tax advantages. Income generated within the foundation is usually subject to a lower tax burden than private income. Gift and inheritance tax can also be legally minimized by setting up a family foundation.

Here again very briefly:

1. Protection of family assets from sale or inheritance disputes
2. Tax advantages due to lower tax burden
3. Minimization of gift and inheritance tax

Who establishes a family foundation?

FIV: Who does this? Is there a certain type of person or family for whom a family foundation is particularly worthwhile?

Stephan: Family foundations are particularly attractive for entrepreneurial families who want to keep their company in the family for generations, or for families with large real estate holdings. But wealthy private individuals who want to secure their capital and optimize it for tax purposes also use this option. The establishment of a family foundation often comes into play when assets exceed the limit of around 1 million euros – at this point it really is worth considering.

How can you set up a family foundation yourself?

FIV: If you want to set up a family foundation yourself, what are the first steps?

Stephan: The first step is to get comprehensive advice. There are many legal and tax aspects that need to be considered, and mistakes can be expensive. Basically, everything starts with drawing up a foundation charter that regulates the purpose of the foundation, the organization and the management of the assets. The foundation must then be registered with the relevant tax office and the foundation supervisory authority. It is also important to think about the composition of the foundation board, as this is responsible for the administration of the foundation.

FIV: Can real estate and assets also be transferred to a newly established foundation?

Stephan: Yes, that is possible, I have a great guide online, maybe you can link to it: Transferring real estate to foundations.

FIV: Thank you very much for the interview, Stephan! Is there anything else you would like to tell our readers about the family foundation?

Stephan: Yes, I would say: inform yourself well and get professional advice. A family foundation is a great instrument for protecting assets and saving taxes, but it needs to be well planned and carefully implemented. If you do it right, you can protect your family and your assets in the long term. May I give you two more link tips?

FIV: Yes, of course!

Stephan: If you want to know more about

1. Foundations in general, you can also visit the Federal Association of Foundations
2. Establish family foundations for real estate, please have a look at my website under foundation establishment
3. And now generally on Saving One about family foundations in Germany

Robot under construction

In the interview Real Estate & AI with Lukinski, we talked about the future with AI. We had a few follow-up questions about the exciting topics and what we can expect in 4, 5 years. Among others, it was about:

Robots under construction with AI

Robots in construction are robots that use AI technology to autonomously perform certain construction tasks. The use of robots can help increase efficiency and accuracy in the construction process and reduce the need for manual labor.

An example of a robot in construction is an autonomous tiler capable of laying tiles on floors and walls. The robot uses AI technology to precisely position and adjust the tiles to achieve a perfect result.

Another example is an autonomous painting robot capable of painting walls and ceilings. The robot uses AI technology to analyze the surface and calculate the amount of paint needed to achieve an even finish.

There are also robots in construction that are capable of lifting and transporting heavy loads. These robots can help reduce the need for manual labor and increase safety on the construction site.

The use of robots in construction can also help speed up the construction process by performing tasks faster and more accurately than humans. As a result, construction companies can increase productivity and reduce costs.

Overall, robots in construction can help optimize the construction process by reducing the need for manual labor, increasing efficiency and accuracy, and boosting productivity.

Fancy more future?

Real Estate & AI (Artificial Intelligence) – The Interview

Today and the future – How is a villa created and how would it be created if artificial intelligence were in play. This interview with Stephan Czaja of Lukinski provides an overview of the steps involved in planning and visualizing villas and their timeline. Architects usually create 3D visualizations to give their clients a better idea of their design.

Artificial intelligence (AI) can improve the process of 3D visualization in the future through automation, personalization, simulations, increased efficiency and real-time updates. Other possible developments include automation of planning, control of construction machinery by AI, creation of 4D visualizations, and personalized advice through AI-based tools. A look into today and the future with AI!

• Real estate & AI (artificial intelligence) – the interview

A preventive maintenance strategy can also increase efficiency in the maintenance process by allowing maintenance work to be planned and carried out in a more targeted manner. In addition, predictive maintenance can help to increase safety on the construction site by identifying and eliminating potential problems at an early stage. Overall, predictive maintenance can optimize the maintenance process, reduce costs and improve safety on the construction site.

Predictive Maintenance

In the interview Real Estate & AI with Lukinski, we talked about the future with AI. We had a few follow-up questions about the exciting topics and what we can expect in 4, 5 years. Among others, it was about:

Predictive Maintenance with AI

Predictive maintenance is a method that uses AI technology to optimize the maintenance of buildings and construction machinery. It uses data from sensors and other sources to predict potential problems and failures before they actually occur.

Detect anomalies and problems early

By monitoring data and sensors in buildings and construction machinery, AI-based software can detect anomalies and problems early on, preventing costly damage and breakdowns. For example, the software can predict when a machine needs to be serviced to avoid failure, or which parts need to be replaced to ensure a longer machine life.

Efficiency in the maintenance process

By using predictive maintenance, construction companies can also increase efficiency in the maintenance process by being able to plan and carry out maintenance in a more targeted manner. This can reduce costs by avoiding unnecessary maintenance and preventing expensive repairs or breakdowns.

Predictive maintenance can also help to increase safety on the construction site by identifying and eliminating potential problems at an early stage. This can prevent accidents and injuries that can be caused by a lack of maintenance or defective machines.

Overall, predictive maintenance can help optimize the maintenance process, increase efficiency, reduce costs, and improve safety on the jobsite. By using AI technology, construction companies can develop a predictive and preventive maintenance strategy to identify and avoid problems at an early stage.

Fancy more future?

Real Estate & AI (Artificial Intelligence) – The Interview

Today and the future – How is a villa created and how would it be created if artificial intelligence were in play. This interview with Stephan Czaja of Lukinski provides an overview of the steps involved in planning and visualizing villas and their timeline. Architects usually create 3D visualizations to give their clients a better idea of their design.

Artificial intelligence (AI) can improve the process of 3D visualization in the future through automation, personalization, simulations, increased efficiency and real-time updates. Other possible developments include automation of planning, control of construction machinery by AI, creation of 4D visualizations, and personalized advice through AI-based tools. A look into today and the future with AI!

• Real estate & AI (artificial intelligence) – the interview

The mission of Model Agency One

Stephan explains MAO’s mission: to provide young people, regardless of their age, with free recommendations for modeling agencies. The list includes the most exciting cities in the fashion industry and helps you find the perfect starting point for your modeling career.

Find your model agency, on:

• Model Agency One

The diversity of modeling agencies

One of the most important things Stephan emphasizes is the diversity of modeling agencies. There are agencies for different looks and types, be it for TV commercials or high fashion. Model Agency One will help you find the right agency for your individual needs.

3 valuable tips for modeling

Stephan shares three crucial tips for aspiring models:

1. Check the agency’s portfolio and work: Take a look at the agency’s models, jobs and clients. This will give you an insight into their quality and experience.
2. Never pay money for a contract: Reputable agencies earn money by placing jobs, not prospective models.
3. Apply to several agencies: Apply to several agencies in your city. This increases your chances of being selected by an agency that will support you.

The importance of Polaroids

You don’t need professional photos for your application. Agencies often work with Polaroids, natural photos taken in daylight. Your smartphone is enough to take portrait and full-body photos.

Want to become a model? Let’s go!

Stephan concludes the video with words of encouragement and encourages aspiring models to pursue their dreams. He also refers to his book “The Model Book” and his podcast “The Model Podcast”, which offer further valuable information for aspiring models – including you!

Find your model agency, on:

• Model Agency One

Stephan’s “The Model Book”: Now in German, English, Spanish & Co.

In “The Model Book” you will not only find a guide, but also a source of inspiration for your modeling dreams. Stephan Czaja’s dedication and passion for the modeling industry shines through in every chapter of the book and in this video. Whether you’re just beginning your modeling journey or looking to take your career to the next level, “The Model Book” is the key to your success in the exciting world of modeling. Let Stephan Czaja guide you along the way and get started!

• The Model Book – English
• The Model Book – Spanish
• The Model Book – German
• The Model Book – Italian

Tip! Listen to the book for free in the Model Podcast on Spotify, Deezer & Co.

• Model Podcast

Diversity in the modeling business

One of Stephan’s first important messages is that there is room for different looks and types in the modeling business. Whether you think you don’t fit the classic fashion ideal, there are agencies looking for different profiles. From TV commercials to high fashion – there is something for everyone.

From Los Angeles: Stephan on becoming a model

You can find more videos on YouTube x CM Models.

Application to several agencies

Stephan recommends not just applying to one agency. The application process is often straightforward and only requires a few photos and basic information. You could submit your application to CM Models first and then, after some time, to other agencies to maximize your chances.

Important: Never pay money

A particularly important point is never to pay money to a modeling agency. Reputable agencies earn their money by arranging jobs, not by charging prospective models.

The casting and application phase

If an agency finds your profile interesting, you will be invited to a casting or video casting. It is important to be authentic and show your natural beauty. No make-up or styling is required. Simple videos and photos are sufficient.

Patience and the way to the top

Stephan emphasizes that the path to success as a model requires patience. It’s unlikely that you’ll end up on the cover of Vogue straight away. It takes time to gain experience and establish yourself as a model. Quality in photo shoots is more important than quantity.

The international route

Once you have gained your first experience in your home city, you can take the next step and work abroad. Stephan explains how this works and provides insights into the requirements for international assignments.

Finally, Stephan encourages aspiring models to be brave and apply. A modeling career can be difficult, but with patience and hard work, it is achievable. His valuable insights provide great guidance for anyone pursuing the dream of becoming a model.

How modeling agencies work together

You might also be interested in this! Stephan Czaja talks about his experiences in the international modeling business and gives us a look behind the scenes of cooperation between model agencies. A deep look into the exciting world of modeling to understand how aspiring models can make their way.

• How modeling agencies work together

Find a good modeling agency? 3 tips

What to do if you have the dream of becoming a model? Model Agency One (MAO) offers the solution. Here you will find the best model agencies worldwide, whether in New York, Los Angeles, Paris or Tokyo.

• Find a good modeling agency? 3 tips

Stephan’s “The Model Book”: Now in German, English, Spanish & Co.

In “The Model Book” you will not only find a guide, but also a source of inspiration for your modeling dreams. Stephan Czaja’s dedication and passion for the modeling industry shines through in every chapter of the book and in this video. Whether you’re just beginning your modeling journey or looking to take your career to the next level, “The Model Book” is the key to your success in the exciting world of modeling. Let Stephan Czaja guide you along the way and get started!

• The Model Book – English
• The Model Book – Spanish
• The Model Book – German
• The Model Book – Italian

Tip! Listen to the book for free in the Model Podcast on Spotify, Deezer & Co.

• Model Podcast

Social Media One: The agency

the name says it all. Stephan Czaja and his team have made it their mission to combine social media with performance. The focus is not just on mere presence, but rather on concrete results. The generation of qualified leads is paramount in order to offer customers the greatest possible added value.

Fan of UGC, ads and scaling

Stephan Czaja is a passionate advocate of user-generated content (UGC), which is created by users. UGC offers an authentic and credible way to build a strong bond with the target audience and thus increase the performance of campaigns. His expertise in the selection and integration of UGC makes his strategies uniquely effective on TikTok, Instagram, YouTube & Co.

In addition to UGC, social media advertisements and performance marketing also play an important role in the marketing strategy of“Social Media One“. Targeted ads enable customers to expand their reach and reach their target group effectively. Skillful placement of ads can significantly increase interactions and conversions.

But why is Stephan Czaja sharing his valuable tips and tricks in our interviews?

His mission is to support not only large companies, but also start-ups, the self-employed and small businesses. He knows that not everyone immediately has the financial means for professional social media marketing management. That’s why he shares his knowledge to give everyone the opportunity to have more success online.

Interviews: Marketing knowledge for you

Whether you’ve just started your own business or have been successful for a while and want to expand your online presence, Stephan Czaja’s tips are a valuable resource for anyone who wants to be successful in social media marketing.

If you want to learn more about the latest developments in TikTok, Instagram, YouTube, ads and performance, check out our other articles. Get inspired and discover how you can use successful social media strategies to boost your performance and achieve more success online!

• TikTok tips
• User Generated Content (UGC)
• Influencer tips
• Performance Marketing
• Social Ads Tips
• Instagram tips
• YouTube tips
• Facebook tips
• Social media marketing tips

The best marketing agencies 2026

Berlin, Hamburg, Munich, Cologne, Düsseldorf, Frankfurt… here you will find the best marketing agency recommendations throughout Germany. Online marketing, social media marketing, social ads, TikTok, Instagram… all you need!

• The best marketing agencies

More reach and followers on TikTok

The first 5 tips are all about how you can use targeted strategies to increase your reach on TikTok and build a growing community of followers. Here are 5 quick facts about TikTok users!

TikTok facts! Target group and app

1. Age: TikTok has a predominantly young user base, with the largest age group being between 16 and 24 years old.
2. Locations: TikTok is used worldwide and has a large user base in many countries, including Germany.
3. Interests: The interests of TikTok users are diverse and range from dance, music, comedy, fashion and beauty to education and DIY content.
4. Short videos: TikTok is characterized by short videos, usually lasting between 15 and 60 seconds, which allows for quick and entertaining interaction.
5. Creativity: TikTok encourages its users to be creative and create their own content, resulting in an active and engaged community.

1. use trend challenges

Take part in current trend challenges to make your videos visible under the corresponding hashtag and gain new followers.

2. use hashtags in a targeted manner

Use relevant hashtags to make your videos discoverable in related topics and increase your reach.

3. cooperations with TikTok influencers

Work with popular TikTok influencers to reach their followers and grow your community.

4. frequent publications

Publish new videos regularly to strengthen your presence on TikTok and keep your followers interested.

5. encourage interaction

Reply to comments and direct messages to increase the engagement of your followers and strengthen the bond with the community. The alternative to organic reach is always social ads, here you can advertise extremely precisely to target groups, for example by interests, age or even place of residence. Learn more here: Social ads (advertising) tips.

Create creative videos and appealing content

Discover how you can attract the attention of your target group with creative videos and engaging content on TikTok.

1. be short and concise

Concentrate on short and meaningful videos that work well within the maximum TikTok runtime of 60 seconds.

2. show unique perspectives

Present your brand or products from unusual angles to arouse users’ interest and keep their attention.

3. arouse emotions

Use humor, emotion or surprise effects to inspire the audience and create a strong connection.

4. integrate user-generated content

Integrate user-generated content (UGC) by sharing your followers’ best videos or incorporating their posts into your own videos.

5. underlay with music

Choose suitable music or sound effects to emphasize your videos and create a special mood.

TikTok advertising campaigns: TikTok Ads

Learn how to use TikTok advertising campaigns effectively to reach your target audience and achieve your marketing goals.

1. optimize target group targeting

Use TikTok’s precise targeting options to tailor your ads exactly to your target group.

2. creativity in the ads

Create engaging ads with entertaining content that catches users’ attention and drives them to take action.

3. use in-feed ads

Place in-feed ads to display your ads in users’ TikTok feeds and achieve higher visibility.

4. branded hashtag challenges

Run branded hashtag challenges to create a viral campaign and achieve broad user participation.

5. analyze measurable results

Regularly analyze the performance of your TikTok advertising campaigns to gain insights and continuously optimize your strategy.

15 tricks for TikTok from our expert

With the right strategies and creative content, you can realize the full potential of your TikTok marketing and achieve more reach, more followers, engaging videos and successful TikTok advertising campaigns.

Thanks to our social media expert x Social Media One.

The best marketing agencies 2026

Berlin, Hamburg, Munich, Cologne, Düsseldorf, Frankfurt… here you will find the best marketing agency recommendations throughout Germany. Online marketing, social media marketing, social ads, TikTok, Instagram… all you need!

• The best marketing agencies

Earn money with real estate

Capital investments are currently becoming increasingly popular as protection against inflation. Inflation reduces the purchasing power of your money over time. Rising inflation therefore basically devalues your money. This is shown by the inflation rate in Germany.

You can find more statistics at Statista

In contrast, real estate prices are rising nationwide every year. This is due to social growth, urban growth and a decline in living space. This is also shown by the Federal Statistical Office’s house price index.

You can find more statistics at Statista.

Real estate increases in value over time, and can therefore not only secure the value of your money, but also serve as a wealth accumulator.

Achieving financial freedom with real estate

For more and more people, investments are the path to financial freedom and a secure pension. If you want to make money with real estate, you buy properties in good locations with a profitable yield with the help of financing from the bank, then rent out the property and pay off the monthly installments through the rents. In the long term, the investor makes an additional monthly profit that goes into their account.

Of course, that’s not all you need to know as a real estate investor. To minimize the risk of losses, you need as much know-how as possible. Good news! You don’t have to start from scratch or trawl through thousands of books. There are already many experienced investors who have successfuly made their money with real estate. That’s why this article gives you 5 tips from real experts on the subject.

5 tips from real professionals

If you are thinking about good investments to increase your wealth, buying a property as an investment is the way to go. Real estate is a proven way to optimize your wealth and achieve financial freedom. Are you a total newcomer to the business? No problem. There are already hundreds of success stories of experts who have made money with real estate. We’ve compiled the knowledge for you in one article. Here are 5 tips from real professionals!

Insider tip: location is the key to success

The first tip promises to be the big secret behind real estate success. The location of a property is crucial to the success of your investment. Real estate experts recommend investing in prime or up-and-coming neighborhoods, as they often offer the best rental income and performance. A-locations are prime locations close to key facilities and amenities. B-locations offer a happy medium, while C-locations are a cheaper but riskier option. It is important to choose the right strategy for your future plans. Your choice should therefore depend on your investment goals and risk appetite.

You should remember this about the various location strategies:

• A-location – expensive & profitable
• B-location – the good center
• C-location – inexpensive & risky

Careful yield calculation protects against losses

The return is a decisive factor in the assessment of a capital investment. The key word here is: return formula. Experts recommend calculating a gross yield and a net yield. The gross yield considers the annual rental income in relation to the purchase price of the property. The net yield also takes into account operating costs, taxes and financing costs. It is recommended to make sure that the return matches your financial goals before you invest.

The gross yield helps with initial decisions for or against an investment in a property. Before drawing final conclusions, however, the net yield should also be calculated. Otherwise, later losses cannot be ruled out.

It is important to know:

The net yield is more secure than the gross yield calculation.

In our guide to real estate investments, we reveal how high the yield currently needs to be: Real estate as a capital investment for beginners.

A smart and well-considered approach to financing

The right financing is crucial. It is advisable to use at least 20% equity to minimize mortgage interest and risk. Make sure you have checked your credit rating and can pay the monthly installments without any problems. Choosing the right financing option can make a significant difference in your real estate investment in the long run. Usually, an annuity loan is taken out as a loan.

You can find more statistics at Statista

Those who think short-term end up spending far more

Real estate investments should be viewed with a long-term perspective. Experts recommend not investing in real estate if you expect short-term gains. Demand for housing increases over time, which offers long-term benefits. Plan for long-term success and remain patient.

Professional support takes you to the next level

It may be advisable to seek professional help. Real estate agents, financial advisors and tax experts can offer valuable advice and support. An experienced real estate expert can help you choose the right property and manage your investment. Our tip: Many real estate advisors offer a free initial consultation where you can ask all your questions about real estate investment.

The most important statements of the professionals summarized

Real estate investing requires research, planning and a clear strategy. By following these tips from experts, you can increase your chances of success and build your portfolio as a real estate investor. Let’s recap what really matters.

Investing in real estate can be a smart investment if you pay attention to the right factors. The choice of location, return targets and the right financing are crucial to your success. Remember that real estate investments require patience and are best invested for the long term. If you keep these points in mind, real estate as an investment can be a lucrative investment that offers you long-term financial stability.

Get off to a good start with real estate with the guide for beginners – one article to learn everything you need to know!

Guide for beginners

You’ve decided you want to invest in real estate – that’s a great idea! Real estate can be a stable and profitable form of capital investment. If returns and positive cash flow are still foreign words to you, then you’ve come to the right place. We unravel the mystery of the money-making machine that is real estate ownership. In this article, you’ll learn the basics of investing. Location, yield, financing: what really matters?

• Real estate as an investment for beginners

The creation of “The Model Book”

Immerse yourself in the exciting world of modeling, accompanied by Stephan Czaja, the author of “The Model Book.” Learn first-hand about his path into the international modeling scene and his experiences with renowned clients such as Prada, Dior and Balenciaga.

In this video, Stephan Czaja reveals how he wrote “The Model Book” – with a pinch of humor and warmth. Find out how he sat in a cozy café and polished off several cappuccinos while writing his book. His personal anecdotes give the book a unique touch and show his dedication and passion for the subject.

• The Model Book – English
• The Model Book – Spanish
• The Model Book – German
• The Model Book – Italian

You can find more videos on YouTube x CM Models.

What can you expect in “The Model Book”?

“The Model Book” is a comprehensive guide that offers valuable information on over 200 pages. Stephan Czaja explains how you can start your modeling career. The book covers everything from the first castings and applications to creating an impressive model portfolio, Polaroids, running and audition videos and life in a modeling agency. You’ll also learn how social media like Instagram is influencing the fashion world and how you can use it to your advantage.

With eight years of experience in the industry, Stephan Czaja brings a wealth of knowledge with him. He has not only taken part in fashion shows, but has also visited fashion capitals and worked with partner agencies. His real-life experiences and stories have been incorporated into “The Model Book” and offer valuable insights.

What can you expect in the video?

Let Stephan Czaja guide you through “The Model Book” as he introduces the key sections and topics. From the importance of a strong start to the possibilities of a free podcast to valuable advice for aspiring models, this video is a treasure trove of information.

The road to international success

One of the ultimate goals of many aspiring models is to work in renowned fashion cities such as Paris, London, Milan and others. In “The Model Book”, Stephan Czaja shares valuable tips on how you can make this dream come true. He explains what happens after you apply to an agency, how to build confidence and ultimately get the chance to work in exciting fashion capitals.

How modeling agencies work together

You might also be interested in this! Stephan Czaja talks about his experiences in the international modeling business and gives us a look behind the scenes of cooperation between model agencies. A deep look into the exciting world of modeling to understand how aspiring models can make their way.

• How modeling agencies work together

Find a good modeling agency? 3 tips

What to do if you have the dream of becoming a model? Model Agency One (MAO) offers the solution. Here you will find the best model agencies worldwide, whether in New York, Los Angeles, Paris or Tokyo.

• Find a good modeling agency? 3 tips

“The Model Book”: Now in German, English, Spanish & Co.

In “The Model Book” you will not only find a guide, but also a source of inspiration for your modeling dreams. Stephan Czaja’s dedication and passion for the modeling industry shines through in every chapter of the book and in this video. Whether you’re just beginning your modeling journey or looking to take your career to the next level, “The Model Book” is the key to your success in the exciting world of modeling. Let Stephan Czaja guide you along the way and get started!

• The Model Book – English
• The Model Book – Spanish
• The Model Book – German
• The Model Book – Italian

Tip! Listen to the book for free in the Model Podcast on Spotify, Deezer & Co.

• Model Podcast

Interview: This is what it’s all about

As a traveler, it is important to think about how to expand your accommodation options and create a unique travel experience from the very beginning. Airbnb can be an interesting option here, as it not only allows travelers to discover exceptional accommodations, but can also be an attractive source of income for hosts. By renting out accommodation via Airbnb, you as a host can improve your financial situation and promote tourism in your region at the same time. But how does Airbnb work exactly and what opportunities does it offer for travelers and hosts? In an exclusive interview with an Airbnb expert, you’ll learn everything you need to know to get started with Airbnb.

We conduct the interview with Immobilien-Erfahrung.de (in conversation “IE”). We talk in the interview about:

1. What is Airbnb and is it legal in Germany?
2. How to become a host on Airbnb?
3. What advantages does Airbnb offer property owners?

What is Airbnb?

FIV: Let’s start with an overview first. What do you need to know about Airbnb?

IE: Of course! Airbnb is an online platform where private individuals can offer their apartments, houses or individual rooms for short-term rentals. The platform connects hosts and travelers around the world and offers a wide range of accommodation options for different needs and budgets.

So in a nutshell:

• Online platform for private individuals
• Short-term renting of houses, apartments, rooms, etc.
• Wide reach for members of the platform
• For different needs and budgets

Can anyone legally become a host on Airbnb?

FIV: What about if I want to offer my apartment or house myself? Is Airbnb legal in Germany?

IE: Good question! Basically, anyone in Germany can legally act as a host on Airbnb. However, there are certain requirements that must be met.

The most important aspects to consider are:

• Legal provisions
• Consent of the landlord

It is important to note that failure to comply with the legal rules and regulations can lead to legal consequences. Therefore, before you start renting on Airbnb, it is advisable to learn about the applicable rules and make sure that you comply with them to avoid any problems.

How to become a host?

FIV: An important question that I’m sure many of our readers have now is: How do you get started as a host on Airbnb?

IE: Of course, with pleasure! The process to become an Airbnb host is relatively simple and straightforward. Basically, you just need to follow these steps:

1. Registration on the platform
2. Creation of an advertisement
3. Setting the rules and prices
4. Set availabilities
5. Accept booking requests

As soon as your ad is online, you will receive booking requests from potential guests. You can accept or decline these requests or ask questions to get more information. Once a booking is confirmed, you prepare your accommodation and welcome your guests.

When does Airbnb make sense for owners?

FIV: When does it make sense for owners or renters to become hosts on Airbnb?

IE: Airbnb is useful for hosts in different situations. For example, if you have an extra room in your house or apartment or own a vacation home that you don’t use all year round. It’s also ideal for people who like to meet new people and offer a unique experience.

Advantages for owners with Airbnb

FIV: That sounds simple. What do you think are the advantages that Airbnb offers hosts?

IE: Airbnb is a great way to increase income and return on investment for hosts. The platform allows you to generate additional income by renting out your apartment to travelers. Instead of leaving the apartment empty, you can actively use it to generate income. The additional income can help cover the costs of your apartment and even generate additional profits.

Advantage 1: Avoid vacancy, generate revenue.

IE: Besides that, Airbnb is flexible. You can decide when you want to rent out your apartment. For example, if you are traveling or temporarily not using your apartment, you can simply offer it on Airbnb and profit from the rental income.

Advantage 2: Flexibility and additional revenue for hosts.

IE: Another important advantage is that Airbnb allows you to keep control over your listings. You can set the price, availability and booking conditions yourself. You have the freedom to market and rent your apartment the way you want.

Advantage 3: Self-determination – in terms of prices and availability.

This is what Airbnb host costs

FIV: Are there costs for hosts on Airbnb, such as taxes and fees?

IE: Yes, there are – the platform has to finance itself, after all. First of all, there are Airbnb fees, which are usually a percentage of the rental price. These fees vary depending on the type of rental and the services Airbnb offers.

Hosts pay 3% of the booking cost as a service fee.

In addition, it is important to consider local tax regulations. In some countries and cities, hosts may have to pay sales tax or other taxes on their rental income.

Tips for young hosts

FIV: What tips do you have for young people who want to become hosts on Airbnb?

IE: First of all, you should familiarize yourself well with Airbnb’s policies and regulations so that you can comply with all the rules. It is also important to make your listing attractive by uploading clear and appealing photos and including a detailed description.

• Read and comply with guidelines
• Advertisement with meaningful pictures and descriptions

In addition, you should emphasize communication with your guests to answer their questions and offer them support when needed. This way, you will receive positive reviews, which are crucial for gaining the trust of potential new guests.

• Good accessibility and communication with guests
• Good ratings encourage new bookings

If you want to learn more about it, please visit our blog. Among others, I can recommend the articles Becoming an Airbnb Landlord and Getting Started with Airbnb by our foundation expert.

FIV: Thank you for the insight into Airbnb!

Summary: 10 Learnings about Airbnb

Let’s briefly summarize the most important facts for you.

	Learning Airbnb
1	Airbnb is an online platform where private individuals can offer their apartments, houses or rooms for short-term rentals.
2	Anyone can legally host on Airbnb, but must follow certain legal requirements and landlord consent.
3	The process to become an Airbnb host includes registering on the platform, creating a listing, setting rules and prices, and accepting booking requests.
4	Airbnb makes sense for owners or renters who have extra rooms or vacation rentals and want to generate income.
5	The platform also offers the opportunity to meet new people and provide a unique experience.
6	Benefits for Airbnb hosts include vacancy avoidance and the ability to earn additional income.
7	Hosts must pay Airbnb fees, which are typically a percentage (3 percent) of the rental price.
8	There may also be local taxes that need to be considered.
9	Hosts retain control over their offerings, including pricing, availability and booking conditions.
10	Positive reviews are important in gaining the trust of potential new guests and encouraging bookings.