The Financemate blog
Guides to property, tax, and investing in Germany
The Financemate blog helps internationals in Germany make sense of rental property investment, income tax, pensions, and ETF investing. Every guide is written in plain English, grounded in German rules, and paired with a free calculator where the numbers matter.
Investment
Berlin Property Prices 2020-2024: What Buyers Really Paid
We went through five years of official Berlin market reports so you don't have to. Real sale prices per m², the district spread, the new-build premium, and the discount almost nobody talks about.
Product
Free Tax Filing in English, and a Free Tax Optimisation Plan
We are launching free German tax filing, a free Tax Optimisation Plan, and a matched-advisor path, all inside Financemate. Here is why, and what is live today.
Financial Planning
The 8 Building Blocks for a Good Financial Future
Discover the framework that turns financial paralysis into action. Learn which building blocks to prioritize based on your income, savings, and goals.
Investment
How to Buy Your First Investment Property in Germany in 2026
Step-by-step guide to buying your first rental property in Germany. Learn financing, tax benefits, location selection, and avoid common mistakes.
Investment
Can You Retire in 10 Years by Buying One Property Per Year? A Data-Driven Analysis
We modeled the '10 properties in 10 years' retirement strategy for Germany. Here's exactly what it takes in salary, savings, and market conditions to make it work.
Rental Property
Property Investment in Germany: Complete Guide for Expats 2025
Master property investment in Germany as an expat. Complete guide covering market analysis, financing, taxes, and strategies for building wealth through real estate.
Investment
The Complete Guide to ETF Investing in Germany for Expats
Master ETF investing as an expat in Germany: from understanding the basics to setting up tax-optimized portfolios, plus special considerations for US citizens.
Retirement Planning
German Pension Systems: Complete Guide for Expats in 2025
Navigate Germany's three-pillar retirement system. Understand public pensions, Riester/Rürup plans, and company pensions for expatriates living in Germany.
Tax Planning
Complete Tax Guide for Expats in Germany: 2025 Edition
Navigate German taxes as an expat. Comprehensive guide covering income tax, social contributions, investment taxation, and international tax treaties for expatriates.
Financial Planning
Why Financial Planning Matters for Expats: Complete Guide 2025
Discover why financial planning is essential for expatriates. Learn to navigate cross-border complexity, tax optimization, and build wealth while living internationally.