Fundamental Information About the Group
Challenging overall conditions for the residential real estate sector in 2023
Overall conditions for the residential real estate sector remained challenging in 2023. The gap between demand for, and the supply of, housing has widened further, with sociological and demographic factors having a particular impact on housing demand. This means that up to 400,000 new residential units will have to be built every year over the next 20 years to meet demand. Although this is also what policymakers are striving to achieve, the number of completions is likely to remain well below the target figure in the coming years, as it did in 2023 with a figure of around 242,000 apartments. As a result, the current completion level will only exacerbate the shortage of housing, meaning that upward pressure on rents will persist.
The supply side has been confronted with an ongoing rise in construction costs over the last few years. Driven by the uptick in general inflation over the past two years to as much as 8.8%, i.e., beyond the level of around 6% witnessed back in the early 1990s in the wake of German reunification, the construction cost index rose from a baseline of 100 in 2015 to around 160 in 2023. The increase in construction costs was also exacerbated by increasing regulation, with political uncertainty and bureaucratic obstacles also hindering faster implementation of investment projects.
The higher construction costs are compounded by the rise in interest rates. Coming in at over 3% in 2023, the 10-year swap rate had risen to a level last seen around twelve years ago.
Upward trends in interest rates and inflation, macroeconomic volatility and less reliable supply chains led to increased costs of capital and therefore higher yield requirements, with an additional dampening effect on investment behavior. This led to mounting pressure on property values, significantly restricting transaction activity on the real estate market, although Vonovia was largely able to buck this trend.
These overall conditions triggered increased pressure on profitability and fair values in the real estate sector, with increased capital discipline the only feasible response. Vonovia strengthened its internal financing power, exercised cost discipline and made changes to its investment approach. At the same time, it did not pursue any further acquisitions and offered housing stocks for sale or inclusion in joint venture structures.
The capital market response to these measures has proved to be encouragingly positive, allowing us to secure our investment grade rating while also fueling a visible recovery in our share price in the last few months of 2023.
With the key megatrends facing us – urbanization, demographic change and sustainability – remaining unchanged, and in light of the current overall conditions, Vonovia elaborated the key value drivers of its strategy and business model in greater detail and analyzed them with regard to the current overall situation in order to define clear options for action.
The merger with the Deutsche Wohnen Group was completed successfully in 2023 and the planned synergy potential was realized by making joint use of the management and development platform and leveraging harmonization effects and economies of scale together. The principles of good corporate governance are being upheld within this context with a view to the Deutsche Wohnen Group’s independent status. This is also ensured by corresponding contractual agreements.
Adjusted EBT
Adjusted EBT is the Group’s leading indicator of profitability as of 2024. The IFRS profit for the period is reconciled to earnings before taxes (EBT). This EBT is adjusted to reflect special effects based on the definition that has applied to date (effects that do not relate to the period, recur irregularly or are atypical for business operations). The net financial result is also adjusted to reflect non-cash and actuarial valuation effects that recur irregularly. The further adjustments to reflect the effects of IAS 40 measurement, writedowns, other (Non Core/Other result), net income from non-current financial assets accounted for using the equity method and effects from residential properties held for sale produce the Group’s Adjusted EBT.
Adjusted EBITDA Development
The Adjusted EBITDA Development includes the gross profit from the development activities of “to sell” projects (income from sold development projects less production costs) and the gross profit from the development activities of “to hold” projects (fair value of the units developed for the company’s own portfolio less incurred production costs) less the operating expenses from the Development segment.
Adjusted EBITDA Recurring Sales
The Adjusted EBITDA Recurring Sales compares the proceeds generated from the privatization business with the fair values of assets sold and also deducts the related costs of sale. In order to disclose profit and revenue in the period in which they are incurred and to report a sales margin, the fair value of properties sold, valued in accordance with IFRS 5, has to be adjusted to reflect realized/unrealized changes in value.
Adjusted EBITDA Rental
The Adjusted EBITDA Rental is calculated by deducting the operating expenses of the Rental segment and the expenses for maintenance in the Rental segment from the Group’s rental income.
Adjusted EBITDA Total
Adjusted EBITDA Total is the result before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (including income from other operational investments and intragroup profits) adjusted for effects that do not relate to the period, recur irregularly and that are atypical for business operation, and for net income from fair value adjustments to investment properties. These non-recurring items include the development of new fields of business and business processes, acquisition projects, expenses for refinancing and equity increases (where not treated as capital procurement costs), IPO preparation costs and expenses for pre-retirement part-time work arrangements and severance payments. The Adjusted EBITDA Total is derived from the sum of the Adjusted EBITDA Rental, Adjusted EBITDA Value-add, Adjusted EBITDA Recurring Sales, Adjusted EBITDA Development and Adjusted EBITDA Deutsche Wohnen.
Adjusted EBITDA Value-add
The Adjusted EBITDA Value-add is calculated by deducting operating expenses from the segment’s income.
COSO
The Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO) is a private-sector U.S. organization. It was founded in 1985. In 1992, COSO published the COSO model, an SEC-recognized standard for internal controls. This provided a basis for the documentation, analysis and design of internal control systems. In 2004, the model was further developed and the COSO Enterprise Risk Management (ERM) Framework was published. Since then, it has been used to structure and develop risk management systems.
Covenants
Requirements specified in loan agreements or bond conditions containing future obligations of the borrower or the bond obligor to meet specific requirements or to refrain from undertaking certain activities.
EPRA Key Figures
For information on the EPRA key figures, we refer to the chapter on segment reporting according to EPRA.
EPRA NTA
The presentation of the NTA based on the EPRA definition aims to show the net asset value in a long-term business model. NTA stands for Net Tangible Assets. The equity attributable to Vonovia’s shareholders is adjusted by deferred taxes, real estate transfer tax and other purchasers’ costs in relation to the existing portfolio and the fair value of derivative financial instruments after taking deferred taxes into account. Stated goodwill and other intangible assets are also deducted.
European Public Real Estate Association (EPRA)
The European Public Real Estate Association (EPRA) is a non-profit organization that has its registered headquarters in Brussels and represents the interests of listed European real estate companies. Its mission is to raise awareness of European listed real estate companies as a potential investment destination that offers an alternative to conventional investments. EPRA is a registered trademark of the European Public Real Estate Association.
European Public Real Estate Association (EPRA)
The European Public Real Estate Association (EPRA) is a non-profit organization that has its registered headquarters in Brussels and represents the interests of listed European real estate companies. Its mission is to raise awareness of European listed real estate companies as a potential investment destination that offers an alternative to conventional investments. EPRA is a registered trademark of the European Public Real Estate Association.
Fair Value
Fair value is particularly relevant with regard to valuation in accordance with IAS 40 in conjunction with IFRS 13. The fair value is the amount for which an asset could be exchanged between knowledgeable, willing parties in an arm’s length transaction.
Fair Value
Fair value is particularly relevant with regard to valuation in accordance with IAS 40 in conjunction with IFRS 13. The fair value is the amount for which an asset could be exchanged between knowledgeable, willing parties in an arm’s length transaction.
Fair Value
Fair value is particularly relevant with regard to valuation in accordance with IAS 40 in conjunction with IFRS 13. The fair value is the amount for which an asset could be exchanged between knowledgeable, willing parties in an arm’s length transaction.
Fair Value
Fair value is particularly relevant with regard to valuation in accordance with IAS 40 in conjunction with IFRS 13. The fair value is the amount for which an asset could be exchanged between knowledgeable, willing parties in an arm’s length transaction.
GAV
The Gross Asset Value (GAV) of the recognized real estate investments. This consists of the owner-occupied properties, the investment properties including development to hold, the assets held for sale and the development to sell area. In the latter, both residential properties for which a purchase contract has been signed and those with the intention to sell – i.e., a purchase contract has not yet been signed – are included.
GAV
The Gross Asset Value (GAV) of the recognized real estate investments. This consists of the owner-occupied properties, the investment properties including development to hold, the assets held for sale and the development to sell area. In the latter, both residential properties for which a purchase contract has been signed and those with the intention to sell – i.e., a purchase contract has not yet been signed – are included.
Group FFO
Group FFO reflects the recurring earnings from the operating business. In addition to the adjusted EBITDA for the Rental, Value-add, Recurring Sales and Development segments, Group FFO allows for recurring current net interest expenses from non-derivative financial instruments as well as current income taxes. This key figure is not determined on the basis of any specific international reporting standard but is to be regarded as a supplement to other performance indicators determined in accordance with IFRS.
Maintenance
Maintenance covers the measures that are necessary to ensure that the property can continue to be used as intended over its useful life and that eliminate structural and other defects caused by wear and tear, age and weathering effects.
Maintenance
Maintenance covers the measures that are necessary to ensure that the property can continue to be used as intended over its useful life and that eliminate structural and other defects caused by wear and tear, age and weathering effects.
Maintenance
Maintenance covers the measures that are necessary to ensure that the property can continue to be used as intended over its useful life and that eliminate structural and other defects caused by wear and tear, age and weathering effects.
Maintenance
Maintenance covers the measures that are necessary to ensure that the property can continue to be used as intended over its useful life and that eliminate structural and other defects caused by wear and tear, age and weathering effects.
Vacancy Rate
The vacancy rate is the number of empty units as a percentage of the total units owned by the company. The vacant units are counted at the end of each month.
Vacancy Rate
The vacancy rate is the number of empty units as a percentage of the total units owned by the company. The vacant units are counted at the end of each month.
Vacancy Rate
The vacancy rate is the number of empty units as a percentage of the total units owned by the company. The vacant units are counted at the end of each month.
Vacancy Rate
The vacancy rate is the number of empty units as a percentage of the total units owned by the company. The vacant units are counted at the end of each month.
LTV Ratio (Loan-to-Value Ratio)
The LTV ratio shows the extent to which financial liabilities are covered. It shows the ratio of non-derivative financial liabilities pursuant to IFRS, less foreign exchange rate effects, cash and cash equivalents less advance payments received by Development (period-related), receivables from disposals, plus purchase prices for outstanding acquisitions to the total fair values of the real estate portfolio, fair values of the projects/land currently under construction as well as receivables from the sale of real estate inventories (period-related) plus the fair values of outstanding acquisitions and investments in other real estate companies.
MFH Sales
We also report on the Other segment, which is not relevant from a corporate management perspective, in our segment reporting. This portfolio involves the sale of multifamily homes that are not proving profitable (MFH Sales).
Rental Income
Rental income refers to the current gross income for rented units as agreed in the corresponding lease agreements before the deduction of non-transferable ancillary costs. The rental income from the Austrian property portfolio additionally includes maintenance and improvement contributions (EVB). The rental income from the portfolio in Sweden reflects inclusive rents, meaning that the amounts contain operating and heating costs.
Rental Income
Rental income refers to the current gross income for rented units as agreed in the corresponding lease agreements before the deduction of non-transferable ancillary costs. The rental income from the Austrian property portfolio additionally includes maintenance and improvement contributions (EVB). The rental income from the portfolio in Sweden reflects inclusive rents, meaning that the amounts contain operating and heating costs.
Modernization Measures
Modernization measures are long-term and sustainable value-enhancing investments in housing and building stocks. Energy-efficient refurbishments generally involve improvements to the building shell and communal areas as well as the heat and electricity supply systems. Typical examples are the installation of heating systems, the renovation of balconies and the retrofitting of prefabricated balconies as well as the implementation of energy-saving projects, such as the installation of double-glazed windows and heat insulation, e.g., facade insulation, insulation of the top story ceilings and basement ceilings. In addition to modernization of the apartment electrics, the refurbishment work upgrades the apartments, typically through the installation of modern and/or accessible bathrooms, the installation of new doors and the laying of high-quality and non-slip flooring. Where required, the floor plans are altered to meet changed housing needs.
Modernization Measures
Modernization measures are long-term and sustainable value-enhancing investments in housing and building stocks. Energy-efficient refurbishments generally involve improvements to the building shell and communal areas as well as the heat and electricity supply systems. Typical examples are the installation of heating systems, the renovation of balconies and the retrofitting of prefabricated balconies as well as the implementation of energy-saving projects, such as the installation of double-glazed windows and heat insulation, e.g., facade insulation, insulation of the top story ceilings and basement ceilings. In addition to modernization of the apartment electrics, the refurbishment work upgrades the apartments, typically through the installation of modern and/or accessible bathrooms, the installation of new doors and the laying of high-quality and non-slip flooring. Where required, the floor plans are altered to meet changed housing needs.
Modernization Measures
Modernization measures are long-term and sustainable value-enhancing investments in housing and building stocks. Energy-efficient refurbishments generally involve improvements to the building shell and communal areas as well as the heat and electricity supply systems. Typical examples are the installation of heating systems, the renovation of balconies and the retrofitting of prefabricated balconies as well as the implementation of energy-saving projects, such as the installation of double-glazed windows and heat insulation, e.g., facade insulation, insulation of the top story ceilings and basement ceilings. In addition to modernization of the apartment electrics, the refurbishment work upgrades the apartments, typically through the installation of modern and/or accessible bathrooms, the installation of new doors and the laying of high-quality and non-slip flooring. Where required, the floor plans are altered to meet changed housing needs.
Modernization Measures
Modernization measures are long-term and sustainable value-enhancing investments in housing and building stocks. Energy-efficient refurbishments generally involve improvements to the building shell and communal areas as well as the heat and electricity supply systems. Typical examples are the installation of heating systems, the renovation of balconies and the retrofitting of prefabricated balconies as well as the implementation of energy-saving projects, such as the installation of double-glazed windows and heat insulation, e.g., facade insulation, insulation of the top story ceilings and basement ceilings. In addition to modernization of the apartment electrics, the refurbishment work upgrades the apartments, typically through the installation of modern and/or accessible bathrooms, the installation of new doors and the laying of high-quality and non-slip flooring. Where required, the floor plans are altered to meet changed housing needs.
Sustainability Performance Index (SPI)
Index to measure non-financial performance. Vonovia’s sustainable activities are geared towards the top sustainability topics that we have identified, which are bundled in the Sustainability Performance Index. The Customer Satisfaction Index (CSI) is included in the calculation of the Sustainability Performance Index. The CSI is determined at regular intervals in systematic customer surveys conducted by an external service provider and shows the effectiveness and sustainability of our services for the customer. Other indicators used in the Sustainability Performance Index are the carbon savings achieved annually in housing stock, the energy efficiency of new buildings, the share of accessible (partial) modernization measures in relation to newly let apartments, the increase in employee satisfaction and diversity in the company’s top management team.
Sustainability Performance Index (SPI)
Index to measure non-financial performance. Vonovia’s sustainable activities are geared towards the top sustainability topics that we have identified, which are bundled in the Sustainability Performance Index. The Customer Satisfaction Index (CSI) is included in the calculation of the Sustainability Performance Index. The CSI is determined at regular intervals in systematic customer surveys conducted by an external service provider and shows the effectiveness and sustainability of our services for the customer. Other indicators used in the Sustainability Performance Index are the carbon savings achieved annually in housing stock, the energy efficiency of new buildings, the share of accessible (partial) modernization measures in relation to newly let apartments, the increase in employee satisfaction and diversity in the company’s top management team.
Net Debt/EBITA
Net Debt/EBITDA reflects average adjusted net debt in relation to the Adjusted EBITDA Total.
Non-core Disposals
We also report on the Other segment, which is not relevant from a corporate management perspective, in our segment reporting. This includes the sale, only as and when the right opportunities present themselves, of entire buildings or land (Non-core Disposals) that are likely to have below-average development potential in terms of rent growth in the medium term and are located in areas that can be described as peripheral compared with Vonovia’s overall portfolio and in view of future acquisitions.
Recurring Sales
The Recurring Sales segment includes the regular and sustainable disposals of individual condominiums from our portfolio. It does not include the sale of entire buildings or land (Non-core Disposals). These properties are only sold as and when the right opportunities present themselves, meaning that the sales do not form part of our operating business within the narrower sense of the term. Therefore, these sales will be reported under “Other” in our segment reporting.
Fair Value Step-up
Fair value step-up is the difference between the income from selling a unit and its current fair value in relation to its fair value. It shows the percentage increase in value for the company on the sale of a unit before further costs of sale.
Fair Value Step-up
Fair value step-up is the difference between the income from selling a unit and its current fair value in relation to its fair value. It shows the percentage increase in value for the company on the sale of a unit before further costs of sale.
Non-core
We also report on the Other segment, which is not relevant from a corporate management perspective, in our segment reporting. This includes the sale, only as and when the right opportunities present themselves, of entire buildings or land (Non-core Disposals) that are likely to have below-average development potential in terms of rent growth in the medium term and are located in areas that can be described as peripheral compared with Vonovia’s overall portfolio and in view of future acquisitions.
Non-core
We also report on the Other segment, which is not relevant from a corporate management perspective, in our segment reporting. This includes the sale, only as and when the right opportunities present themselves, of entire buildings or land (Non-core Disposals) that are likely to have below-average development potential in terms of rent growth in the medium term and are located in areas that can be described as peripheral compared with Vonovia’s overall portfolio and in view of future acquisitions.