Is buying a property in Nordend a good investment?

Last updated on December 29, 2023

Yes, the analysis of Frankfurt's property market is included in our pack

If you've experienced the historic charm and urban convenience of Nordend, you may have thought about investing in property in this Frankfurt district.

Is it a good idea though? What's the current state of the real estate market in that area? Are property values appreciating or depreciating? Are investors seeing returns on their real estate investments? How's the demand for rentals?

We'll answer all these questions for you! When building and updating our property pack for Germany, our team has been researching and surveying this area. In fact, there is significant customer interest in investing there. Therefore, we believe it would be beneficial to include some information about it in our property pack.

Why do property buyers like investing in Nordend?

Nordend in Frankfurt stands out as a particularly alluring location for property buyers, thanks to a blend of unique attributes that distinguish it from other real estate markets, not only in Frankfurt but also more broadly.

Let's delve into what makes Nordend special, how it compares to other areas, its popularity trajectory, the demographic it attracts, and also consider some of its potential drawbacks.

Firstly, Nordend's charm lies in its vibrant cultural scene and architectural beauty. Unlike some of the more modern or industrial parts of Frankfurt, Nordend is known for its historic buildings and picturesque streets, offering a sense of character that's increasingly rare in urban environments.

This aesthetic appeal is a significant draw for those who value a blend of historical charm with urban living.

In comparison to other areas in Frankfurt, Nordend offers a more balanced lifestyle. While districts like the Banking District are bustling with corporate activity, and areas like Sachsenhausen are known for their nightlife, Nordend strikes a harmonious balance.

It provides a peaceful residential atmosphere without sacrificing the convenience and excitement of city life. This equilibrium makes it particularly appealing to a wide range of buyers, from young professionals to families.

The rise in Nordend's popularity can be traced back to the early 2000s. This surge was driven by a combination of its desirable living conditions and the general upward trend in Frankfurt's real estate market.

As for whether this hype will persist, current trends suggest it will. Frankfurt's continued growth as a financial hub, especially post-Brexit, has led to a steady demand for residential properties in desirable areas like Nordend.

Nordend tends to attract a diverse demographic, but it's particularly popular among young professionals and families. The area's schools, parks, and family-friendly amenities, combined with its cultural vibrancy, make it a preferred choice for those looking for a neighborhood that offers both quality of life and convenience.

However, it's important to note some potential weaknesses of Nordend. Due to its popularity, property prices in Nordend can be quite high compared to other parts of Frankfurt. This might put it out of reach for some buyers, especially those just starting out.

Additionally, as with any urban area, there can be issues related to noise and traffic, although these are relatively moderate in Nordend compared to more central city locations.

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Why is Nordend a nice place to live?

Nordend is often celebrated as a wonderful place to live, and for good reason, the lifestyle and culture here are dynamic and engaging, contributing significantly to its appeal.

First off, the lifestyle in Nordend is a blend of urban vibrancy and relaxed, community-focused living. This area is known for its beautiful parks like Günthersburgpark, where residents often enjoy leisurely strolls or family picnics.

The cultural scene is also rich, with numerous cafes, bookstores, and galleries that foster a creative and intellectual atmosphere. This makes Nordend not just a place to live, but a place to experience and enjoy life.

The expat community in Nordend is thriving, which adds to the area's cosmopolitan feel. Expatriates are drawn to Nordend for its welcoming atmosphere and the ease with which one can integrate into the community. This diversity enriches the neighborhood, bringing together a variety of cultural perspectives and experiences.

Living in Nordend, however, does come with a higher price tag. The cost of living here is somewhat elevated compared to other parts of Frankfurt, reflecting the area's desirability and the quality of life it offers.

This includes housing costs, which can be on the higher side due to the demand for properties in this charming district.

Safety is a key consideration for any residential area, and Nordend scores well in this regard. It is generally considered a safe place to live, with a low crime rate and a sense of community that contributes to residents' feeling of security.

When it comes to amenities and facilities, Nordend is well-equipped. The area boasts several reputable schools, making it a great choice for families.

Additionally, there are quality healthcare facilities nearby, ensuring residents have easy access to medical care. For shopping and leisure, Nordend offers a variety of options, from charming local boutiques to larger shopping centers like the Hessen-Center, providing a comprehensive retail experience.

The quality of infrastructure in Nordend is impressive. The roads are well-maintained, and utilities like electricity and water supply are reliable. Internet connectivity is also strong, catering to the needs of both residents and the thriving community of professionals and students in the area.

Accessibility is another of Nordend's strengths. It's well-connected to other parts of Frankfurt, making commuting and traveling around the city hassle-free.

The proximity to major transport hubs like Frankfurt Airport adds to its convenience, especially for those who travel frequently or have visitors from afar.

Public transportation options in Nordend are plentiful. The area is served by an efficient network of buses and trains, including the U-Bahn and S-Bahn, which connect residents to the broader city and beyond.

This ease of movement is a significant plus for those living in Nordend, enhancing the overall quality of life.

How much does it cost to buy real estate in Nordend?

If you need a detailed and updated analysis of the prices, rents and yields, you can get our full guide about real estate investment in Germany.

Buying a property in Nordend can be an exciting yet complex venture due to the variety of residential properties available and the dynamic nature of the real estate market there.

In Nordend, you'll find a diverse range of residential properties, including apartments, townhouses, and, though less commonly, luxury villas. The area is particularly known for its charming Altbau apartments — these are older buildings, often from the early 20th century, that are prized for their character and architectural details.

These properties are in high demand, largely due to their unique blend of historical charm and modern living. Many buyers are drawn to the aesthetic appeal and the sense of history these buildings embody.

The property market in Nordend is characterized by a mix of resale properties and some new developments. The Altbau apartments, for instance, are typically resale properties that have been renovated or modernized.

On the other hand, there are also newer developments, though these are less common, given Nordend's established urban landscape and strict building regulations aimed at preserving the area's historical character.

When it comes to pricing, the cost of buying a property in Nordend varies significantly depending on the type of property and its specific location within the neighborhood. On average, prices per square meter can range significantly.

It's important to note that these figures can fluctuate based on market conditions and the unique features of each property.

Over recent years, property values in Nordend have shown a trend of steady increase. This trend is reflective of the overall real estate market in Frankfurt, which has seen growth due to factors like the city's economic development and its rising status as a financial hub, especially post-Brexit.

Looking at future developments, there are ongoing discussions and plans for urban development in Frankfurt, which might impact Nordend. Specific names of projects or city planning changes, when announced, could potentially influence property values.

These developments often aim to enhance the quality of life in the area, which could make Nordend even more attractive to potential buyers.

Predictions for the real estate market in Nordend in the coming years suggest a continued upward trend in property values. This expectation is based on several factors, including the area's enduring popularity, the limited availability of new developments (which adds to the exclusivity of the area), and the overall growth of Frankfurt as a major European city.

Certain specific factors indicate a potential increase in property value in Nordend. These include its central location, the continued demand for historical properties, and the area's lifestyle appeal, combining urban conveniences with a strong sense of community.

These factors, along with the general economic stability and growth of Frankfurt, make Nordend an attractive option for property buyers looking for both a home and a solid investment.

Where is the best area to buy a property in Nordend?

When considering buying property in Nordend it's important to understand that this neighborhood is diverse and varied, with different parts offering unique atmospheres, property types, and price ranges.

Nordend can broadly be divided into two parts; Nordend-West and Nordend-Ost. Nordend-West is closer to the city center and is known for its bustling atmosphere.

It's characterized by a mix of residential and commercial properties, including cafes, shops, and restaurants. The properties here are predominantly Altbau (old building) style apartments, which are highly sought after for their charm and character.

Due to its proximity to the city center and the high demand for these types of properties, prices in Nordend-West tend to be higher.

In contrast, Nordend-Ost offers a more relaxed and residential atmosphere. This area is further from the city center and is characterized by quieter streets and a stronger sense of community.

Properties in Nordend-Ost are also predominantly Altbau style, but there are more options for larger apartments and, in some cases, small houses.

The prices here are generally more affordable than in Nordend-West, making it an attractive option for families and those looking for a quieter urban life.

Regarding up-and-coming areas within Nordend, one area that buyers might want to consider is the border region between Nordend-Ost and Bornheim. This area is becoming increasingly popular due to its mix of urban and residential qualities and relatively more affordable property prices compared to the rest of Nordend.

If you're looking to buy a property in Nordend, areas around Berger Straße in Nordend-Ost can be particularly appealing. This street is known for its vibrant community life, with numerous cafes, small shops, and a weekly market. Properties in this area offer a pleasant blend of urban amenities and residential comfort.

On the contrary, the areas closer to the busy thoroughfares like Friedberger Landstraße might be less advisable for those seeking a quieter living environment.

While these areas are well-connected and offer easy access to amenities, they can be noisier and more congested, which might not appeal to everyone.

Here is a summary table to help you visualize better. If you need more detailed data and information, please check our property pack for Germany.

Area	Atmosphere	Property Types	Price Range	Notable Features
Nordend-West	Bustling, urban	Altbau apartments	Higher	Close to city center, vibrant commercial activity
Nordend-Ost	Relaxed, residential	Altbau apartments, small houses	More affordable	Quieter streets, strong community feel
Border between Nordend-Ost and Bornheim	Up-and-coming, mixed	Varied	Moderate	Increasing popularity, good balance of urban and residential qualities
Near Berger Straße (Nordend-Ost)	Vibrant community life	Altbau apartments	Moderate to high	Lots of cafes, shops, and a weekly market
Near Friedberger Landstraße	Busier, noisier	Various	Varies	Well-connected, closer to major roads

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Is there a strong rental demand in Nordend?

In Nordend, there is indeed a strong rental demand, which can be attributed to various factors including the area's desirability and its demographic composition.

The demand for rentals in Nordend is primarily for long-term leases. This trend is driven by the area's popularity among young professionals, small families, and students.

These groups are typically looking for stability and community, which long-term rentals provide. There's a lesser demand for short-term rentals, mainly catering to business travelers or short-term visitors, but this market is not as pronounced as the long-term segment.

The target demographic in Nordend is quite diverse. Young professionals, often working in Frankfurt's business sector, are a significant portion of the potential tenants.

They are typically looking for modern, well-maintained apartments that are close to public transport links and the city center.

Small families and expatriates are also common, attracted by the area's residential feel, good schools, and community amenities. Students from nearby universities are interested in more affordable, smaller units, possibly shared apartments.

When it comes to the type of properties in demand, renovated Altbau (old building) apartments are particularly popular. These properties offer the charm and character that is highly sought after in Nordend.

However, there's also a growing interest in newer, more modern apartments, especially among young professionals who value contemporary amenities and design.

The most in-demand areas in Nordend are those that balance residential tranquility with accessibility to urban amenities. Neighborhoods around Berger Straße in Nordend-Ost, known for their vibrant community life, and areas in Nordend-West that are closer to the city center, are especially popular.

Certain amenities can significantly reduce vacancy rates. Properties with updated kitchens and bathrooms, high-speed internet, and proximity to public transportation are highly attractive.

Also, buildings with added features like a balcony, elevator, or a garden can be particularly appealing.

Regarding the potential returns on investment, properties in Nordend can offer attractive yields, though exact numbers vary. The steady rental demand can lead to consistent rental income, and the area's ongoing popularity suggests potential for property value appreciation.

While specific ROI figures depend on various factors like property type, location, and market conditions, Nordend generally presents a promising opportunity for investors.

Properties that are increasingly in demand, and thus could potentially yield better returns, include those that cater to the needs of young professionals and small families.

Well-maintained, modernized Altbau apartments, as well as newer apartments with contemporary amenities, are likely to be particularly profitable due to their appeal to these key tenant demographics.

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Is it easy to buy a property as foreigner in Nordend?

Before we answer the question, please know that we have an article dedicated to the experience of buying real estate as a foreigner in Germany.

Buying a property in Nordend, Frankfurt, as a foreigner is generally straightforward, but there are important aspects to consider to ensure a smooth process.

Firstly, in Germany, there are no specific regulations or restrictions placed on foreign buyers. This means that as a foreigner, you have the same rights to purchase property as a German citizen.

This openness makes Germany, and specifically areas like Nordend in Frankfurt, attractive for international property investors.

The property purchasing process in Nordend involves several steps. After identifying a property, you would typically make an offer through a real estate agent. Once the offer is accepted, a notary (Notar) is involved to prepare the sale agreement.

The notary plays a crucial role in the process, ensuring legality and fairness. The transaction is completed once the property is officially registered in your name.

There are, however, primary risks associated with property investment in Nordend. The real estate market can be competitive, with high demand for properties in desirable areas. This competition can lead to quick decision-making, which might result in overlooking important details.

Additionally, property values can fluctuate, so there's an inherent financial risk, as with any real estate investment.

Regarding classic pitfalls or common mistakes, one unique aspect in Germany is the "Kauf Nebenkosten" (purchase additional costs). These are the additional costs involved in property transactions, including notary fees, real estate transfer tax, and possibly a commission for the real estate agent. These costs can add a significant amount to the overall price, and not accounting for them is a common oversight.

Working with a local real estate agent and a lawyer is highly advisable, especially for foreign buyers. They can help navigate the complexities of the local real estate market, provide valuable insights, and ensure that all legal requirements are met.

This is crucial in a market like Nordend, where nuances in property value, legal frameworks, and negotiation processes can significantly impact the outcome of your investment.

Common exit strategies for property investors in Nordend include selling the property for capital gains or renting it out for a steady income. The rental market in Nordend is strong, which makes renting out a viable strategy.

However, selling the property could also be profitable, particularly if the property's value has increased over time.