Humanitarianism vs. empty houses

In some regions of Germany, detached houses, which used to be a dream come true for the model Germany family, have become a millstone around the neck of their owners. The properties are falling into disrepair because they are maintained individually by the elderly people who, although they live there, do not have such great housing needs and would prefer lower living costs. According to Hildegarda Schröteler-von Brandt, a professor of architecture at the University of Siegen, there is no guarantee that the money earned from the sale of a house would be enough for the owner to get even a room in a care home. According to an article published in ‘Der Spiegel’ a few years ago, some towns in Germany are undergoing depopulation to such an extent that the low water consumption is leading to blockages in sewage pipes and problems with the maintenance of the infrastructure. In Sonnenberg, a town once famous for the production o