DVTV: Young People and Housing – David Hauerland Discusses Real Estate Trends with Daniela Drtinová
A topic that concerns today’s younger generation more than ever was opened in a recent DVTV interview with David Hauerland, Managing Director of the real estate investment group Fidurock. In conversation with Daniela Drtinová, he discussed housing affordability, property investments, and how changing lifestyles influence the way we think about living.
Investing or Owning? It depends on situation and priorities
According to David Hauerland, there is no universal answer. “Everyone has a different life situation, work rhythm, and financial capacity. But young people should start thinking about investments as early as possible – even in small steps,” he said.
The key, he believes, is to start saving part of one’s income and develop an investment habit. “Buying an apartment on the outskirts – even one you don’t live in but can afford with a mortgage – can be a smart way for young people to build capital for their future home. The main thing is to start early,” he added.
The path to financial stability, he says, begins with building habits. “For example, someone who enjoys buying coffee every day could link that habit to saving – transferring the same amount into an investment account instead.”
Hauerland emphasized that it’s not a competition to get a mortgage first, but about being mindful with money. “Everyone starts from a different point. What matters is to plan for the future and use tools that suit your own situation – whether that means buying a flat or investing regularly.”
The Real Estate Market Is Changing – Flexibility Is Key
The conversation also touched on how today’s younger generation often prioritizes flexibility over ownership. “Flats are no longer just places to gather but rather spaces to rest between experiences. In Prague and Brno, we’re seeing housing evolve into a service – people want comfort, digitalization, and convenience. Everything is on-demand,” explained Hauerland.
Through its Livimi platform, Fidurock currently manages more than 300 rental apartments, closely monitoring tenants’ changing preferences. “The demand for high-quality rental housing with professional management is growing. People want efficient solutions that give them freedom of choice,” he added.
Property, Fund, or Stocks? Every Path Makes Sense
The interview also explored the importance of diversification.
“Buying an investment property isn’t for everyone – and that’s perfectly fine. For young people who don’t yet know where life will take them, an investment apartment under today’s mortgage conditions can be a good start. Selling it later can serve as a foundation for purchasing their dream home. For people in their fifties, a mortgage-financed investment property may no longer make sense, and investment funds can offer a more effective and lower-risk way to grow capital. What matters is that the investment matches one’s personal risk profile.”
Empathy and Realism over Illusions
In conclusion, the discussion addressed rising living costs and the imbalance between Czech wages and property prices. “Yes, we have Western European property prices but Czech wages. That’s a reality we can’t ignore,” said Hauerland. “On the other hand, wages are growing in line with inflation, giving people more ways to prepare for the future. Mortgages, however, are not inflationary – meaning that over time, monthly payments effectively become cheaper. Every step toward financial responsibility counts.”
Watch the full interview
