GLS Bank positions itself within the current debate on the real estate market and calls for a re-evaluation of the concept of yield. André Meyer, Head of the Sustainable Real Estate Competence Centre at GLS Bank, emphasises that while housing must be economically viable, it should primarily be understood as living space. This space must be affordable, climate-friendly, and socially equitable.
Meyer criticises the common reduction of the debate to the alternatives of market or socialisation as too narrow. He refers to a proven third form of ownership in Germany, the housing cooperatives that have existed for over a hundred years. Additionally, foundations, communal living projects, and other public welfare-oriented bodies demonstrate that the combination of private capital, professional financing, and permanently affordable housing is achievable. These structures offer the possibility of significant expansion by banks and civil society, even without direct political influence.
Social Responsibility in Financing
For financial institutions, this implies an expanded responsibility. In financing decisions, banks should not exclusively assess the maximum return of a property. Rather, it is crucial to consider what social and ecological value the property can create and maintain in the long term. Meyer explains that financing and public welfare are not contradictory. Long-term viable housing projects can promote social stability while also being economically reliable.
GLS Bank will discuss this question at the Expo Real property fair as part of a panel. Under the title "Climate crisis, construction costs, housing shortage: Do we need to rethink yield in the housing industry?", experts invite attendees to examine the public welfare-oriented real estate sector on Tuesday, 6 October 2026, from 12:30 to 13:00. The discussion will focus on practical examples that integrate ecological responsibility, social quality, and economic viability.
The panel will highlight topics such as resource-efficient timber construction, the energy-efficient refurbishment of existing buildings, and modern energy systems that enable increased self-sufficiency. It will also explore how such projects can be successfully implemented on a larger scale. The core question remains whether short-term profits or secure, affordable housing define the actual yield. The event will take place at stand B3.224 in Hall B3 of Messe Munich.
Panel Discussion at EXPO REAL
- —André Meyer, Head of Sustainable Real Estate Competence Centre, GLS Bank
- —Anton Welke, Expert for Sustainable Housing Projects, GLS Bank
- —Arnt von Bodelschwingh, Expert for Housing Industry and Housing Promotion, RegioKontextGmbH
- —Sven Kirchner, Managing Partner, FinnholzGmbH & Co. KG
