KfW Loans 2026: Your Complete Guide
All KfW funding programs for new construction, home purchase and renovation. From 0.01% interest!Climate-friendly construction, Young Buys Old, Home Ownership for Families and Heating Subsidies.
Key Points at a Glance:
- KfW 297/298: Climate-friendly Construction - up to 150,000 EUR loan
- KfW 308: Young Buys Old - 0.01% interest for families
- KfW 300: Home Ownership for Families - up to 270,000 EUR
- KfW 458: Heating Subsidies - up to 70% grant
- Important: Apply BEFORE construction starts through your bank!
Table of Contents
The KfW Bank offers attractive funding programs in 2026 for builders, home buyers and renovators. With favorable interest rates, high loan amounts and government grants, KfW supports the path to home ownership and energy-efficient renovation. In this guide, you will learn everything about the most important programs, current conditions and how to successfully submit your application.
KfW 297/298 - Climate-friendly New Construction
Funding Program for New Buildings
1.1 Bn EUR BudgetThe "Climate-friendly New Construction" funding program supports the construction of energy-efficient residential buildings. It is aimed at private individuals who want to build a climate-friendly home.
Efficiency House 55 (EH55)
- Up to 100,000 EUR loan
- Favorable interest from 2.5%
- 55% of reference building energy demand
Efficiency House 40 + QNG
- Up to 150,000 EUR loan
- Interest from 2.31%
- QNG = Sustainable Building Quality Seal
Note: Application must be submitted BEFORE construction begins. An energy efficiency expert is required to confirm the efficiency house level.
KfW 308 - Young Buys Old
Sensation: 0.01% Interest!
TOP OFFERThe "Young Buys Old" program is specifically designed for families with children who want to buy an older existing property and renovate it for energy efficiency. The interest rates are sensationally low!
Interest Rate
Almost interest-free!
Base Loan
For families
With Extra Bonus
For more children
Requirements
- At least one child under 18 in the household
- Purchase of an existing property (not new construction)
- Income limits apply
New 2026 Change: Energy Standard Relaxed!
The required energy standard has been lowered from EH70 to EH85 EE. This means less strict requirements and easier fulfillment of the criteria!
KfW 300 - Home Ownership for Families
The Family Program for Your Dream Home
With the "Home Ownership for Families" program, KfW supports families with children in building or first-time purchase of a climate-friendly property. Especially attractive: up to 270,000 EUR loan amount!
Loan Amount by Number of Children
Requirements
- At least 1 child under 18
- Household income max. 90,000 EUR/year (+ 10,000 EUR per child)
- No property ownership at time of application
- Efficiency House 40 standard required
KfW 458 - Heating Subsidies
Up to 70% Grant for Your New Heating System!
KfW subsidizes the replacement of old heating systems with climate-friendly alternatives such as heat pumps. The funding consists of combinable grants.
Base Subsidy
Basic rate for heat pump conversion
Speed Bonus
For quick heating replacement
Income Bonus
For household income up to 40,000 EUR
Maximum Subsidy
All bonuses combined
Example: Heat pump for 25,000 EUR
17,500 EUR Grant
with maximum subsidy of 70%
Important: The speed bonus (20%) is time-limited. Acting early pays off! From 2028, the bonus will decrease to 17%.
Application Process - How It Works
Consultation with Energy Efficiency Expert
For many programs, you need confirmation from an approved energy consultant.
Apply Through Your Bank
KfW loans are not applied for directly at KfW, but through your bank or savings bank.
Apply BEFORE Construction/Purchase Contract!
The application must be submitted before signing delivery and service contracts.
Wait for Approval, Then Start
Only after written approval from KfW may you begin with the project.
Avoid Common Mistakes:
Many applications are rejected because construction has already started or contracts were signed before approval. Be sure to follow the correct sequence!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I combine multiple KfW programs?
Yes, in many cases combination is possible. For example, you can combine KfW 300 (Home Ownership for Families) with KfW 458 (Heating Subsidies). However, note the respective funding limits.
What income limits apply to KfW loans?
For KfW 300, the limit is 90,000 EUR household income (plus 10,000 EUR per child). KfW 308 and KfW 458 have different limits. The income bonus for heating subsidies applies up to 40,000 EUR household income.
What is an efficiency house and what levels are there?
An efficiency house is an energy standard. The number indicates what percentage of a reference building's energy demand is needed. EH40 means 40%, EH55 means 55%. The lower the number, the more energy-efficient and higher the subsidy.
How long does a KfW application take to process?
Processing time varies depending on the program and application volume. Expect 2-6 weeks. During high demand, it may take longer. Therefore, plan sufficient time before construction starts.
Can I apply for KfW loans as a self-employed person?
Yes, self-employed individuals can also apply for KfW loans. The credit check is done through your bank. You typically need tax returns from the last 2-3 years and current business financial statements.
What happens when KfW funds are exhausted?
Some programs have budgeted funds (e.g., KfW 297/298 with 1.1 billion EUR). When the budget is exhausted, no new applications are accepted. Early application is therefore recommended.
Compare Construction Financing
Compare construction financing offers now and find the best combination of KfW funding and bank loans for your project.
Compare Construction Financing NowProtect Your Property
Protect your property with the right building insurance - including coverage against natural hazards.
Compare Building Insurance