“A single-family home may even be a dead end”

The psychologist and financial expert Monika Müller advises many people interested in real estate. In doing so, she repeatedly encounters distorted perceptions and unrealistic desires. In an interview, she explains why the desire to own a home requires creativity – and sometimes also discipline.

Ms. Müller, where does the feeling of not being able to afford anything come from?
I find the phrase “can’t afford anything” very harsh. That almost sounds hopeless.

But many people currently feel this way when they think of their own property.
You’re right. But consider that sentence again. Anyone who says it or thinks it has to be stuck and can’t get any further.

What can you do about it?
Calculate first. Topics such as owning a home sometimes emotionalize us extremely. It’s good to take a step back and look at things from a distance. And see what you can afford.