Why cannabis quality is so important

Cannabis quality is not just a question of the active ingredient content. For medical patients, contamination with pesticides, mold spores, heavy metals or synthetic cannabinoids pose serious health risks. In Germany, medicinal cannabis flowers from pharmacies must meet strict GMP standards – recreational cannabis from non-regulated sources does not.

Important quality parameters in the laboratory

Medical cannabis in Germany: GMP standard

Pharmacy cannabis in Germany must be certified according to GMP (Good Manufacturing Practice):
– Federal Institute for Drugs and Medical Devices (BfArM) monitors
– Bedrocan, Bediol, state cultivation (BtMG license): all fully analyzed
– Certificate of Analysis (CoA) must be available for each batch

What should be on the CoA:
– THC/CBD mg/g (not only %)
– Terpene profile
– Pesticide release
– Mold spore count
– Heavy metal release

Recreational cannabis: how good is the quality really?

Cannabis from illegal sources has no quality control. Analysis projects such as SaferParty Zurich and drug-checking centers (Vienna, Frankfurt) regularly show this:
– 15-25% of samples contain pesticide residues above EU limits
– Common extenders: synthetic cannabinoids (NPS), lead, glass dust in hash
– THC content often does not match seller statements (±30-50 %)
– Mold due to improper storage: common in imported cannabis

Mold and immunocompromised people: critical risk

Aspergillus fumigatus – a common mold on cannabis – is largely harmless for healthy people. For immunocompromised people (cancer patients, HIV, transplant patients), an Aspergillus infection from inhaled cannabis can be life-threatening.

Study: Tashkin 2002 (Chest): Aspergillus spores detected on cannabis samples from Los Angeles. Recommendation: Immunocompromised persons should only smoke cannabis from GMP-certified sources and not smoke it (vaporizer at 170-185°C kills spores).

Drug checking: safety tests in Germany

Drug checking has been expanded since the legalization of cannabis. There are model projects in Frankfurt and Hamburg where users can have their cannabis tested anonymously:
– Rapid test: reagent strips for basic checks (NPS, heroin admixtures)
– Laboratory check: full analysis for cannabinoids, pesticides, heavy metals

FAQ: Cannabis quality and laboratory tests

Summary

Cannabis quality includes cannabinoid content, terpene profile, pesticide-free, mold-free and heavy metal control. Medical pharmacy cannabis in Germany is subject to GMP control with full CoA. Recreational cannabis without quality control regularly shows contamination in analyses. Mold on cannabis is a critical risk for immunocompromised people. Drug checking sites offer free anonymous testing. Consumption forms for safer inhalation; medical cannabis on prescription for GMP-safe cannabis.

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

Simply unfold: Assembly made easy

Setting up a roof tent is usually straightforward. Most roof tents can be easily folded out or extended, making tedious tent setup on the ground a thing of the past. Setup often begins with you setting up the rooftop tent either over the ground or the side walls. This involves carefully unfolding the tent canvas. It is important to be careful here to avoid damage to the roof tent.

A straight floor is not as important for the roof tent as it is for a conventional tent, since this one on the car roof gives you a straight floor to sleep on anyway. However, if the vehicle is on too sloping ground, it can be difficult to set up the tent correctly. The ground may then prevent you from setting up the ladder in a straight line. This would be unfavorable, because in many cases the ladder serves not only as access to the tent, but also as a support to keep the tent stable. So make sure that the ground is reasonably level.

Equipped for wind and weather: additional steps

In the next step, many roof tents have additional assembly steps to make the tent even more stable. In some cases, additional poles may be required, for example, on the windows of the roof tent. These poles help stabilize the tent and ensure that it keeps its shape, even in windy conditions. For really stormy nights, most roof tents also come with lines for guy ropes, so-called storm guy ropes.

With this step-by-step guide, you’ll have your roof tent up and running in no time:

1. Set up over floor or side walls
2. Carefully unfold the tent canvas
3. Set up ladder (level floor)
4. Attach additional bars
5. If necessary: storm bracing

Structure in video: Learn fast & uncomplicated

Here you can see how easy and fast it is to set up a roof tent.

Roof rack & roof load: What you need!

First, you’ll need a roof rack or roof rail. This is your sturdy base to attach the roof tent to your vehicle. Make sure that the roof rack or roof rail has the required load capacity. For mounting, you would need proper fasteners, bolts and brackets to securely mount the roof tent on the roof of your vehicle. However, most roof tent stores offer on-site installation, which can make your job much easier.

• These are the things you should pay attention to before assembling and setting up your roof tent:
• Robust base: roof rack / roof rails for roof tent attachment
• Check load capacity: Roof rack / roof rails must be sufficiently strong
• Mounting requirements: fasteners, screws, brackets for secure mounting
• Professional help: roof tent stores often offer on-site assembly for convenience

Then you should also consider the roof load. But what is the roof load anyway?

How much roof load is needed for a roof tent?

The roof load of a vehicle refers to the maximum weight that can be safely transported on the roof. An approved roof load should compromise the stability and safety of the vehicle. You should be careful not to exceed this permitted roof load to minimize potential risks and accidents.

In the case of the roof tent, this only applies to the weight of the tent itself and the crossbars mounted on the roof rack or roof rails. If the specified roof load of your vehicle is 85 kg, for example, and your roof tent already weighs 80 kg including the mounting system, there is no reason to worry. This means you still have some weight left over for luggage.

• Roof load: Maximum weight allowed on the roof of a vehicle
• Concerns only the tent & crossbar on the roof rack
• Example: Roof load = 85 kg ⇒ Roof tent + roof rack = 80 kg (+5 kg luggage)

More about roof tent: size, manufacturer & comparison

Now you just need to find the perfect roof tent for you! These recommendations will help you:

Camping for two or with the family

To decide on the right size, you should first consider how many people you will be traveling with. If you still need extra space, then you should choose a larger roof tent.

Here you will find many tips for different roof tent sizes:

• Roof tent 2 people
• Roof tent 3 people
• Roof tent 4 people
• Roof tent 5 people

Roof tent manufacturer: Our recommendation

In addition to the different sizes, there are also different companies that manufacture roof tents. So that you don’t lose track of them, you can take a look at our favorites here.

• Roof tent manufacturer

Roof tent comparison: Your suitable roof tent

Looking for the right roof tent or strong accessories and equipment for the camping site? Here you will find our shopping recommendations:

• Roof tent comparison

Adventure on vacation: Camping with children

The school vacations are coming up and you want to plan an exciting summer vacation for the whole family?

Camping! To make it easier for you, we met a camping expert (from Campwerk roof tents). Since she has several days, a week to do with camping, she can answer the most important questions about camping with the family.

More questions and answers about where you can travel to and what to look out for can be found here:

• Camping in Germany

First, why would you go camping with kids?

FIV: Thank you for letting us meet for the interview. Campwerk is all about camping, because you sell roof tents, tent trailers and camping accessories. That’s why you know a lot about the subject. In your experience, why does it make sense to go camping with children?

Here we have summarized it for you again, that’s why you should go camping:

• Experience nature, promotes understanding of the environment
• Adventure & freedom, good for new experiences
• Family time makes you grow stronger together
• Learning & development for the whole future life
• Relaxation & deceleration: Just relax!

Tip. You can read more about this topic here: Vacation with children!

Just read together – camping with kids!

Tips for the journey: How to make the journey!

FIV: Let’s start with the journey! Long car rides can be very exhausting, especially in sunny summer weather with the kids. How do I make sure that everyone reaches the campsite relaxed?

Campwerk: First of all, you should schedule regular breaks during the car ride so that the children can move around, go to the toilet and eat something. These breaks are important to avoid boredom and heat. You can also take a walk or have a picnic. Additionally, you should prepare entertainment for the ride, such as audio books, music, games, or movies. This will keep your kids busy during the ride and create a more pleasant atmosphere in the car.

Tip: With older children you can also try one of the FIV games:

• Mini Games

Camping: Select suitable for children

FIV: Once the family has arrived safely at the vacation destination, how do I find a suitable campsite?

Campwerk: For children, the campsite is quickly a whole new situation. Since things can quickly get hectic, you should stay calm and always keep an eye on the little ones. If you don’t pay attention, accidents and injuries can happen. Of course, if your kids are old enough, they can help with smaller tasks, like pitching the tent or gathering wood for the campfire. This will teach them practical skills for outdoor life.

My tip for keeping the kids busy when you need your rest or are busy with other campsite chores is to set up your own little play and craft zone for your kids at the campsite so they feel comfortable and have something to do. Pack games, books, toys and other activities for them to use.

Alternatively, you can find out about the children’s activities offered at the campsite and let your children take part in, for example, a children’s animation.

Employment at the campsite: craft & play corner!

Cozy place to sleep: test beforehand!

FIV: Even the most beautiful day at the campsite comes to an end. How do I provide a nice place for children to sleep?

Campwerk: First of all, you should make sure that your children find the sleeping bags, air mattresses or camping beds comfortable. You can also test this before the vacation. In addition, you should make sure that there are no loose cables or objects lying around, so that no one gets hurt at night. You can also give older children a flashlight so that they can go to the toilet at night.

Learn how to set up your sleeping space properly here:

• Camping Living & Sleeping

Clothing: Remember to bring a change of clothes!

FIV: The next morning, everyone has to get dressed, too. What should I look for when I pack the clothes for everyone?

Campwerk: Even in the most beautiful summer weather, you should also think about weatherproof clothing to protect your children from rain or cold in changing weather. Change of clothes is also especially important. Children who spend a lot of time in nature quickly get their clothes dirty or wet and then it is helpful if you have a few clean and dry things with you.

Cooking & Eating: Gas stove, grill & campfire

FIV: We are all dressed now. What is the best way to provide breakfast at the campsite?

Campwerk: Some campsites offer extra breakfast. This is a good alternative, if it should be too much for you to cook. But for a real camping experience you also need a camping stove. This can be a gas stove or a grill. Here you can prepare eggs, bacon but also vegetables. In addition, you should think of cereal, yogurt, fresh fruit, toast or rolls with different spreads. Older children can also help with cutting fruit, spreading the spreads or setting the table.

Of course, you can prepare all other meals of the day in the same way. In the evening it can be especially nice to roast marshmallows over the campfire. In general, you should always think about snacks. Children get hypoglycemic quickly when they’re running around all day, and it can also make car rides much more relaxing if you eat something in between.

These are the things you should take with you for a good breakfast at the campsite:

• Eggs
• Bacon
• Vegetables
• Muesli
• Yogurt
• Fruit
• Toast
• Roll
• Spread
• Marshmallows

To help you succeed in your cooking, you can read on here:

• Camping cooking tips

Activities: out into nature!

FIV: Breakfast will certainly be very tasty. One of the great advantages of camping is that the family can be out and about all day. What should I look out for when planning camping activities with children?

Campwerk: When you do something exciting in between, you consciously spend time with your children. This creates moments of bonding and exchange, away from normal everyday life.

Directly at the campsite, outdoor games such as Frisbee or ball games are especially good. But also in the surrounding area you can plan activities like hiking, biking, canoeing or swimming. Thereby the children get exercise and you can experience a little adventure together.

These are recommended activities to do on vacation:

• Frisbee
• Ball games
• Hiking
• Cycling
• Canoeing
• Swimming

Sun Protection: Sunscreen, Umbrella & Hat

FIV: If I travel a lot, I should also pay attention to sun protection. What is recommended here?

Campwerk: Don’t forget to bring sunscreen (sunscreen cream or oil), sun hats and umbrellas to protect yourself and your children from the sun. Make sure the sunscreen provides a high level of protection against UV rays. Apply sunscreen liberally, about 30 minutes before you go out in the sun. You should reapply every two hours or after swimming or heavy sweating. A sun hat or wide-brimmed cap can also help protect your face, ears and neck from direct sunlight.

You can find a guide for the right sunscreen here: Sunscreen for your skin type!

Safety: first-aid kit to protection from insects

FIV: We are now safe from the sun. What else should I pay attention to when camping with the whole family, so that everyone comes back from vacation unharmed?

Campwerk: In advance, you should always make sure that you have a cell phone with all the usual emergency numbers. These include, of course, 110 for the police and 112 for the fire department or ambulance, but also the number of the medical emergency service or the local coast guard can not hurt. For minor injuries and minor illnesses you should prepare a first-aid kit with plasters, wound disinfection, painkillers and fever remedies, fever thermometer, allergy tablets and diarrhea medication.

Against annoying insect bites in summer you can also take ointment or insect spray for skin and clothing. However, if in doubt, always go to the doctor before you treat something yourself.

With this packing list, you can quickly put together your emergency kit:

• Plaster
• Wound disinfection
• Painkiller
• Antipyretic
• Clinical thermometer
• Allergy tablets
• Diarrhea remedy
• Ointment for insect bites
• Insect spray

Consideration: Other families & nature

FIV: Should the family still want to stay at the campsite for a day, what should I look out for?

Campwerk: At the campsite you should pay attention first of all to your neighbors, but also to the surrounding nature. Of course, it’s nice to choose a campsite where other families are also camping, so that your children have the opportunity to make new friends, but always make sure to treat each other with respect. Children should be quiet especially at quiet times. If the child is still too young for you to explain how to be considerate, better warn the neighbors.

In addition, a campsite is often kept very natural and this should be maintained. Teach your children beforehand to respect nature by showing them how to properly dispose of trash and take care of animals and plants.

FIV: That’s definitely good to know. Then thank you for the interview!

Where to go? Camping in Germany!

Psst! Need tips to find the right place for your next vacation?

In this article, the expert from Campwerk gives you many tips on how to find the right destination in Germany and what else you should look out for when camping:

• Camping in Germany

Well, curious? More about Campwerk & Roof Tents

Want to get to know Campwerk a little more? Then you can find out more about the camping experts here:

• Campwerk roof tents

You will also find links to Campwerks, where you can find out everything you need to know about your first camping equipment and how to put it together:

• Roof tent website
• Roof tent blog

More camping! Cooking in the fire, roof tent & more insider tips

Imagine: The smell of crackling campfire in the air, the lively rustle of canvas tents, and adventurous hikes under a twinkling starry sky. Whether you’re looking for comfort or a thrill, camping has something for everyone and promises pure bliss. And the best part? You can explore plenty of fantastic places on a budget.

Here you can learn all about the latest gadgets for a cozy living and enjoyable outdoor cooking!

Discover the perfect campsite, travel to exciting destinations and get insider tips:

• Camping
• Camping with roof tent

Camping at the lake? No problem, water and hiking fun for the whole family!

Intelligent construction machinery

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:

Intelligent construction machinery with AI

Smart construction machines are machines equipped with AI technology to improve their performance and efficiency. These machines can operate autonomously or be controlled by an operator who monitors the machine and intervenes when necessary.

The autonomous excavator

An example of a smart construction machine is an autonomous excavator or crane that uses AI technology to perform its work automatically. These machines can use sensors and cameras to sense their surroundings and process information to automatically adjust their work. For example, an autonomous excavator can use AI technology to independently identify where to dig to create the excavation and the amount of soil to remove. This allows the work to be done faster and more efficiently because the operator does not have to manually perform each step.

Intelligent concrete pump

Another example is a smart concrete pump that uses AI technology to monitor the flow of concrete and automatically adjust the pressure to ensure even distribution of the concrete. This can improve the quality of the final product.

Smart construction machines can also communicate with other machines and equipment to coordinate the construction process and increase efficiency. For example, an autonomous crane can communicate with an autonomous excavator to make the removal of materials more efficient.

Overall, intelligent construction machinery can help make the construction process faster, more efficient and safer. The use of AI technology can minimize errors, increase accuracy and reduce costs.

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

Broker and property developer ordinance at a glance

The Real Estate Agent and Property Developer Ordinance is a legal ordinance that primarily issues specifications to protect the purchaser of real estate during the process. It regulates the form and general provisions for concluding a real estate development contract, but also applies to brokers, lenders, loan agents and construction supervisors.

The most important facts in brief

• Regulations regarding property development and brokerage contracts
• Determines the timing and amount of payments
• A guarantor is needed to accept payments
• Surety bond can be equated with indemnity bond

You can find out all the details you need to know about the Real Estate Agent and Property Developer Ordinance in this article.

What does the MaBV regulate?

At what point is a broker or developer allowed to take money from you? These and other questions are answered by the Real Estate Broker and Property Developer Ordinance. The ordinance aims to create clarity in confusing processes in the real estate industry and to protect the money of real estate buyers from misuse or unauthorized access.

The most important points at a glance:

• Performance of the developer is secured with a guarantee
• Payments (in %) by buyers are based on construction progress
• Payments may only be used for the contractual projects
• Separate asset management for different projects

The background to the guarantee is to secure claims for damages by the purchaser. These may arise if the developer or subcontractors commissioned by the developer have deliberately committed tortious acts. However, the guarantee is not a completion guarantee

For whom is the Real Estate Agent and Property Developer Ordinance relevant?

For example, you want to move into an apartment as a tenant in a large city? Especially in urban areas, the real estate market is a highly competitive area, where in many cases you cannot avoid a real estate agent. Through the guidelines of the MaBV you have the possibility to regulate and control the performance of your real estate agent. If agreements made or services rendered are not fulfilled, you can, for example, refuse payment.

Real Estate Buyers

Even those who want to buy a house, whether as their own home or as an investment, can benefit from the regulation: The precise regulations, which govern down to the smallest detail when and how much is to be paid, safeguard the buyer against the developer.

Read on to learn when your broker or developer may require payment from you.

Requirements for payments

If a developer contract is concluded, this does not mean that the developer can immediately demand the corresponding purchase price from you. The reason for this is that you as the buyer should be protected by the MaBV. Therefore, some conditions are attached to the receipt of payments (payment claim), so must/must:

1. A legally binding purchase agreement is available
2. The purchase contract must be confirmed by a notary
3. All permits have been obtained (e.g. building permit)
4. A priority notice of conveyance for the buyer exist
5. The object of purchase to be free from land register liens
6. All other benefits of the contract must be fulfilled

Only then can the broker or developer demand payment from you as the buyer of a property. However, if points of the contract have not been fulfilled by the developer or broker, you as the buyer can:

• Refuse payments
• Demand compensation
• Demand repayments

In summary: Buyer protection and legal consequences

The Real Estate Agent and Property Developer Ordinance is intended to guarantee security for buyers of real estate in particular and to protect them from fraud. This is to ensure that the contractually agreed services on the part of the developer or broker are fulfilled in full. In the event of non-fulfillment of his performance obligation, the buyer can assert rights against his contractual partner. These rights can be, for example, damages or a refusal to pay.

Equity: Use for own benefit and capital investment

To finance a property, the bank requires a certain amount of collateral. The better your credit rating, the less equity you have to put up. When buying the first property, two basic rules apply for personal use and capital investment.

• Self-interest = As much equity as possible
• Capital investment = As little equity as possible

The equity subtracted from the total investment sum results in the loan sum required from the bank. This loan is paid back by a monthly repayment, including interest.

What is important in the repayment?

• Capital investors: Interest can be deducted for tax purposes
• Owner-occupier: interest cannot be deducted for tax purposes
• Repayment: Repayment + interest for loan amount

Owner-occupiers: High equity

With this type of real estate purchase, the interest on the financing cannot be deducted from taxes. To keep the interest as low as possible in the end, it is worthwhile to bring in as much equity as possible. So the bank has a lower risk with your financing and the lower the interest is calculated.

• More equity, the better the conditions
• At least 20% equity for owner-occupiers

Cost per month for own use

In general, for financing a property, the cost of the loan should not exceed 40% of disposable income. In addition, one should keep in mind that the costs and interest rates can change. Just as quickly as the interest rate can change the cost of managing the property, such as water, electricity and gas.

• Self-interest < 40% of income (net, after tax)
• Interest and management costs may change

Capital investment: Lower equity

If you buy a property as an investment, you can fully deduct the interest on the financing from your taxes. If the rental yield is sufficient, even the tenant pays off almost completely on his own. However, surpluses generated from the return must be taxed, which is a major disadvantage.

• Interest is deductible
• Tenant pays interest through sufficient return on investment
• Less than 10 – 15% equity for capital investment

Rolling equity

Simply explained, rolling equity means that you get your investment of equity paid out as soon as the repayment at the bank is paid off. So in short, how do you get your invested equity out of a real estate investment as quickly as possible? To achieve this, there are two ways.

Two options:

• Restricted equity
• Full financing

Restricted equity

With this equity investment option, the equity is tied up until the property is sold, which means that you cannot access the equity during this time.

Sample calculation:

• Investment costs (purchase price plus ancillary costs): 250,000
• Equity after bank (15%): 37,500
  _____________________
• Loan amount: 212,500
• 32,500 euros committed as equity

Full financing

In this case, it is agreed with the bank that the purchase price including ancillary costs will be financed in full. The equity capital is invested in an extra account or securities account as collateral, which is released as soon as the repayment of the loan reaches the level of the equity capital.

Sample calculation:

• Investment costs (purchase price plus ancillary costs): 250,000
  _____________________
• Loan amount: 250.000

Additionally:

• Assigned collateral (account or deposit): 37,500

The next step: commercial examination

You have determined your maximum purchase price and are now faced with the commercial check, so that the previously determined and determined budget is adhered to. This audit is particularly important for the purchase of the first property such as apartment or house, that thus unnecessary costs and mistakes in the purchase of real estate are avoided. This audit includes not only the cost, but also the inspection and defects by year of construction and maintenance of a building. Read everything about the purchase audit here!

Self-disclosure for the bank

Before determining the required equity capital, you should provide the bank with a self-disclosure about your financial situation. You can find out what this means here!

You want to buy your first apartment or house and the bank wants a self-disclosure from you? Learn here what a self-disclosure is, what it says and download a free PDF template that you can use to convince your bank!

• Self-disclosure

Back to the Capital Investment editorial.

Bonds: advantages, disadvantages and default risk

Bonds can be bought through any bank, tradable on the stock market safe government bonds pay little interest, the risk is low almost, there is almost none.

However, the return on bonds is low. Bonds can be bought through any bank. Another advantage, they can be traded on the stock exchange at any time.

What are government bonds?

There are different types of government bonds. Here in Germany, for example, these are the well-known German government securities, they work according to the same principle.

Bonds are issued directly by a state on the capital market, which can use them to finance its own state budget.

The most important at a glance:

• Government bonds are used to finance government spending, so you lend money to the government when you buy bonds.
• Government bonds pay a fixed interest rate to the investor each year, the so-called coupon.
• They are traded on the stock exchange and are therefore subject to price fluctuations, but the risk of default is lower.
• For example, the interest rate and the price of the government bond issued are based on the current credit rating of the issuing country.

Individual government bonds are rated by rating agencies. These use certain generally applicable letter codes. The agencies assign an “AAA” (the so-called “triple-A”) as the best grade.

Down it goes in steps of AA, A, BBB, BB and so on, down to D, the lowest rating. The letters can also be combined with plus and minus for an even finer gradation.

At what point is a bond considered a “junk security”?

Already from the grade BB+ begins the range, which is called junk.

What government bonds are there?

Usually, government bonds (treasury bonds) are available in the respective national currency. Unlike treasury bills (2 years), German government securities have a relatively long maturity. This term is, for example, 10 or even a whole 30 years.

So when you buy a government bond, you as an investor are lending money to the government. This bond is granted for a fixed period of time. In return, you as the lender receive a fixed interest rate, known as coupons. The nominal value of a bond usually remains the same over the entire period.

Even though the basic principle of all forms of government bonds is the same, individual details vary from country to country. In Germany, there are the following bond forms, which are grouped under the generic term “Federal securities” (abbreviation and maturity in brackets):

• Federal bonds (Bunds, 10 or 30 years)
• Federal bonds (Bobls, 5 years)
• Federal treasury bills (treasuries, 2 years)
• Non-interest-bearing Treasury bills (Bubills, 6 or 12 months)
• Inflation-indexed German Government securities (ILB, bonds: 5 years, notes: 10, 15 or 30 years)

British government bonds, for example, are called gilts. In America, government bonds look like this:

• Treasury Bills (T-Bills, 4, 13, 26 or 52 weeks)
• Treasury notes (T-notes, 2, 3, 5, 7 and 10 years)
• Treasury bonds (T-bonds, 10 and 30 years)

Yield with 10-year term

Ten-year government bond yields for selected countries worldwide in October 2019.

Positive interest income

1. USA with 1.7
2. Greece with 1.34
3. Italy with 0.92
4. Spain with 0.22
5. Portugal with 0.19
6. Ireland with 0.02

Negative interest income

1. Germany with – 0.45 %
2. Luxenburg with -0.39
3. Niderlande with -0.3 1%
4. Austria with -0.2
5. Finland with -0.2
6. Japan with -0.16
7. France with -0.14 %
8. Belgium with -0.14%

Source: Statista

House security from burglary

For single people, singles, older people but also for families the protection is in the foreground. With rising numbers of burglaries and many negative headlines, the need for security increases. The good old pepper spray is no longer enough for many, they want a pistol. For distance reasons alone, a pistol can of course be much more effective than hand weapons, and the deterrent effect on burglars is also greater. In principle, two genera differ as long as we talk about small weapons.
Important: Self-defence always means to tend to the least possible damage. The use of a weapon must therefore be “proportionate” even in case of a threat.

Phoke guns and the small gun license

Anyone who wants to buy a pistol in Germany needs a small gun licence for the experienced use of the pistol.

The pistols are designed in such a way that the barrel is not suitable for firing projectiles. Models that can be bought licensed in Germany cannot be converted into a real weapon. The situation is completely different with many alarm guns from other countries, they are only manufactured in such a way that a small piece of metal blocks the barrel inside. By releasing the barrel, the pistol is sharp again and can be used for normal standard projectiles.
These models are prohibited in Germany!</block quota>
Shooting guns should always be bought in gun shops, because they must also be registered. If you don’t want to make a small gun licence, you can often use CO2 air pistols as a deterrent.

CO2 pistols without firearms licence

In Germany, all CO2 air pistols with a strength of up to 7.5 joules are freely available for sale. Anyone 18 years old can buy one of these weapons. The weapons are freely marketable because they potentially cause much less damage than a fright-shooting weapon. With a size of only 4.5 mm, the small diabolos weigh only half a gram. They develop as little kinetic energy as possible to cause great damage, for example in the case of self-defense. The situation is quite different with alarm guns, if they are fired at close range, for example on the face, they can develop large injuries.

When it comes to securing one’s own home, many families therefore use CO2 guns. Of course, in case of self-defense they would not allow effective resistance, but in case of doubt you can help to gain valuable seconds.

In the case of danger: Try not to act frontally, attack is not the best defense here. A few valuables are nothing compared to your health.

If you want to protect yourself preventively, you can also use the alarm system.

Alarm system: security technology for house and flat

To avoid a dangerous situation in the first place, more and more families are having alarm systems installed in their condominiums or houses. Alarm systems offer the great advantage that today they have undergone great developments due to modern technology and almost real-time data transmission. Today, as a homeowner you can access any cameras directly from your smartphone, so you can see and that anywhere in the world. So you can always and everywhere see who is entering your own property, who is standing in front of the door, you can even talk directly to the person, so that the impression is created that you are at home yourself.

House security: police direct connection of the alarm system

Did you know? Many modern alarm systems today are directly linked to the police, so in dangerous situations you get immediate information, you don’t even have to dial the police call and perhaps even hang in the queue for a moment. Especially in real danger situations, the homeowner saves valuable seconds.

Depending on the price class and investment, the different models of alarm systems differ. If you want to read more about this topic, you will find here a big article about alarm systems for your home.

Household insurance

As simple as it sounds, not everyone takes out household insurance. With household contents insurance, you can prevent an absolute emergency. So you can exclude that destroyed or stolen furnishings lead to financial ruin. This is why household contents insurance is one of the most important private insurances that you as owner and tenant should take out equally.

Weapon Licence and Weapon Transport

If you don’t have a gun license yet but want to buy a CO2 pistol, we have some information for the gun purchase or the gun transport.

In principle, as described above, you do not need a separate firearms license to possess a CO2 pistol. The only thing you need is your identity card and the age of 18. With this identity card you can then buy a pistol in any gun shop, which is registered in the name of the person. Once you buy the gun, you can go back home.

Who buys his weapon in the online shop has of course no problems, because it comes directly to the front door and is handed over directly to the own four walls and does not reach the public. If you still have to drive home, the following applies to you:

• CO2 pistol may be carried after the purchase (cash voucher attests purchase date / time)
• Weapon must always be stored separately from ammunition and capsule, a separate case

is recommended.

CO2 pistol in car and in public

After the purchase of the gun is always to be observed: Is it public or private space?
A CO2 pistol may not be carried in public spaces!</block quota>
If you transport your rifle from A to B, you should make sure that it is locked in your suitcase and importantly, not ready to hand! So it’s best to keep it in the trunk, far away from the driver. In addition, the ammunition and the capsules must be stored separately, for example in a backpack on the rear seat of the vehicle.

Safety is a top priority for many families but also for singles. If you decide to buy a pistol, we wanted to give you a few good tips today. If you are now interested in buying a CO2 pistol, we have some interesting articles for you:

CO2 pistols, Diabolo & steel ball under test

If you have now seen everything but still want to decide for a smaller pistol model, we have here still current reviews to two really great models. One, the Glock 17, is “ideal for families” as it is very protected by several mechanisms against unwanted use. Even if safety is paramount, it can always happen over the years that a child might still be in the hands of the gun device. Even if it is only a short moment of carelessness!

If you want to have fun shooting, we have tested the innovative reloading system of the Sig Sauer P226 for you! While with other CO2 guns you have to load the CO2 capsule by hand and often even need a tool like an allen key, here you have an absolutely innovative and patented quick loading system. This allows you to replace the CO2 capsules in just 2 seconds. The associated magazine with its double-sided drum can be used again directly after the first page has been shot.

Buy weapons cheap online? Depending on whether you’re buying a weapon for the first time or already have a collection, it’s worth going to your local weapons store or online shops. As a first time buyer of pistols the way to the weapon shop is worthwhile, here you can test the models and get experiences from the salesman. If you’re a gun owner looking to expand your collection, it’s worth looking at online shops, where you can save money.

You want to know more about Diabolos and BB steel balls? We have looked at all the different types for you and show you whether it is worth changing to types like the “Terminator” or the “Barracuda” or whether it is not worthwhile to stay with the good old standard model, the flat head Diabolo! Did you know? If you also shoot uphill on your Diabolo pistol, the grooves in the barrel will break, making the trajectory of the Diabolos more unstable and the accuracy of the target less accurate.