Rent in Berlin: Senior fights for evacuation

Rent in Berlin: Senior fights for evacuation

The case of Manfred Moslehner, called Manne, who has lived in his parents' house for almost 14 years and is now threatened by an eviction lawsuit by the investor, has mobilized numerous people. The courtroom was well attended when the negotiation took place in the Wedding district court. At the age of 84 and a small pension, Manne faces the challenge of losing his home because the investor is pushing for modernization and resale of the house.

The hard reality of the real estate market in Berlin is evident in this process. The tenants of the settlement on Steinberg fought for their home for years, while the investor relies on profitable sales. History goes back to 2010 when the real estate developer bought the settlement and thus strongly influenced the tenancy. Manne, one of the remaining tenants, fought against the modernization plans because he cannot handle the higher rental costs.

The emotional tension in the courtroom reflects the difficult decision in front of which the judge is facing. Depressed and in concern for the future of Manne, she asks if there is an opportunity to reach an agreement instead of a tough judgment. The point of view of the situation through the years shows how deep personal life stories are interwoven with the economic interests, while the judge faces a clear "yes" or "no".

Despite the dreary prospects, there may be a spark of hope. The mediation efforts by a member of the Bundestag, Canan Bayram from the Greens, could offer a chance to prevent the impending evacuation. But the clock ticks and the time for a solution disappears. In the middle of the legal tug of war and the human tragedy, man remains confident in his own way, but also emphasizes his deep connection with the small house, which is so much more than just an "object".