The municipal housing exchange in Munich is undergoing a significant expansion of its functionality. In future, tenants of subsidised flats managed by Münchner Wohnen GmbH will also be able to register on this platform. This will allow them to post exchange offers for their existing properties and view relevant offers from other users.
The expanded service includes the option of a flat swap between two subsidised flats, as well as between a subsidised and a privately financed residential unit. The feasibility of these transactions is contingent upon compliance with specific legal requirements. Digital support from the Office for Housing and Migration ensures the legality of exchange processes for subsidised flats. A valid registration certificate for subsidised housing is obligatory for this.
Digital processes and user interaction
Applications for subsidised flats are submitted online via the SOWON platform. The digital housing exchange has been revised to allow exchange parties to upload necessary documents to their profile. These documents are required for processing the exchange application. Furthermore, exchange parties can view the result of the legal review on the newly designed user interface of the housing exchange, which increases the transparency of the process.
Mayor Verena Dietl emphasised the relevance of this innovation, stating that living circumstances change and housing should follow these adaptations. The free municipal exchange is described as a tool for simplifying, digitalising, and making the process traceable. Opening it up to tenants of subsidised flats is intended to create additional opportunities and contribute to the efficient use of urban housing.
Since 2023, the digital housing exchange has generally offered Munich citizens ways to optimise their housing needs through flat swaps and subletting. These measures serve to adapt housing more flexibly to individual requirements. Further details on the requirements for a flat swap can be found on the official website.
- —Allows exchange between two subsidised flats.
- —Possibility of exchange between subsidised and privately financed flats.
- —Digital review of legality by the Office for Housing and Migration.
- —A valid registration certificate for subsidised flats is required.
