The property tax reform in Germany has also led to considerable discussion and resentment in Karlsruhe. That is why, in this podcast episode of the voters’ group FÜR Karlsruhe, Micha Schlittenhardt and city councillor Friedemann Kalmbach talk to Marc Wurster from Haus und Grund – Zentralverband der Deutschen Haus-, Wohn- und Grundeigentümer – about the property tax reform in Karlsruhe. The property tax reform is a reform of the property tax in Germany that has led to considerable increases in property tax for many homeowners in Karlsruhe. Together they discuss the legal challenges of the reform and the potential impact on homeowners.
The property tax reform, which aims to revaluate properties, has led to a special structure in Baden-Württemberg. Here, property tax is calculated solely on the basis of the value of the property, without taking the development into account. In many cases, this new calculation method leads to considerable increases in the tax burden, particularly for owners of detached and semi-detached houses and listed properties. In some cases, the tax amounts can even increase eightfold.
Cities and municipalities are also facing new challenges. On the one hand, the additional tax revenue can be used to finance projects; on the other hand, there is a risk that citizens will be annoyed by the higher burdens. It is being discussed whether and how local authorities can be positioned in relation to the new regulations, for example by setting moderate assessment rates or providing possible support for affected citizens.
