Living in the Westend: Cooperatives ensure affordable living space!

Living in the Westend: Cooperatives ensure affordable living space!

Living in the Westend is currently experiencing dynamic change, which presents both challenges and opportunities for residents. On June 26, 2025, in the fourth episode of the “Westend Perspectives” series, we will report on the importance of housing cooperatives in this up-and-coming district of Munich. Doris Schüle-Wolfsfellner, board member of the Munich housing association, and Gerhard Metzger from the “Ausspekuliert” initiative discuss ongoing construction projects and the options available to tenants to combat rising rents. More and more people are relying on the strengths of cooperatives, which not only offer living space but also a voice for tenants.

The cooperative's construction project is working on more living space that meets today's requirements. The representatives of the cooperative emphasize that the instrument of “right of first refusal” is also becoming more important due to the close cooperation with the city. This is an important measure that is intended to strengthen tenants in times of high rent prices. The topic is not only hotly debated in Westend, but also in other districts. Florian Schmidt, the building councilor for Friedrichshain-Kreuzberg, sees great potential here and is planning discussions to improve the framework conditions for cooperatives. A positive development that creates hope for many tenants.

Legal framework and cooperatives

The legal basis with which housing cooperatives operate plays a crucial role in the current housing situation. The Housing association law not only secures the right of residence for members, but also promotes democratic participation within the cooperatives. The principles of cooperatives state that every member has an equal say, which strengthens the distribution of decision-making power and the feeling of community. But how does joining a cooperative work? It begins with a written registration and the acquisition of business shares - an important step that lays the foundation for long-term housing security.

Members enjoy numerous advantages, such as the opportunity to actively participate in shaping living conditions. The general meeting, in which everyone has a vote, is the heart of a cooperative. This is where important issues are voted on and the fate of the community is controlled. But despite all the advantages, there are also hurdles, such as the initial cost of the business shares, which can represent a barrier to entry. However, in an increasingly scarce housing market, the search for sustainable solutions is crucial.

Future prospects in the Westend

A look into the future shows that cooperatives are more in demand than ever. The challenges posed by rising rents and the housing shortage make it clear: sustainable living space design is essential. In addition to the classic cooperative models, increased public funding is also to be expected, which will focus on new forms of living and ecological sustainability. The discussions surrounding the right of first refusal and cooperative employment models make it clear that there is a need for action in order to achieve concrete progress.

The current efforts and exchange between the cooperatives, the city and other actors are a step in the right direction. The latest transactions in the area of ​​pre-emption rights show that solidarity and networking among tenants and cooperatives are a key to success. An interesting aspect is that these collaborations not only set an example in Munich, but also in other cities such as Berlin.

The coming months will be crucial. The presence of the cooperatives in Westend could be a decisive factor in creating a better quality of living for all citizens. The big question remains: How will developments in the housing situation continue? Much depends on the political and social support that cooperatives need to consolidate their place in the city and drive innovation.