The PerFinEx Podcast: Your Guide to Financial Success in Germany

They know where you live. They track your payments. And they decide if others trust you — without you even noticing.Welcome to Schufa — Germany’s most powerful and most mysterious credit agency.In this video, we uncover how Schufa works, what data they collect, and how their secret score can decide your financial future.💥 Is Schufa even legal?💥 What do they actually know about you?💥 How can you protect yourself and improve your standing?By the end of this video, you’ll understand why Schufa is often called “the secret German agency that can ruin your life” — and what you can do about it.Request your Schufa credit report for free:https://www.meineschufa.de/de/datenkopie-----PerFinEx GmbH - Personal Finance for ExpatsThe #1 English-speaking & Independent Financial Planner in GermanyFurther legal information is available at perfinex.de/impressum

Want to retire early in Germany? 🤔In this video, we break down the 5 essential steps to achieve financial independence (FIRE) — so you can take control of your money, your time, and your future.We’ll go beyond the oversimplified “just buy one ETF” advice and show you a real roadmap to financial freedom in Germany. Whether you’re just starting your FIRE journey or already investing, this guide will help you plan smarter, save faster, and invest more effectively.💡 What you’ll learn in this video:1️⃣ How to calculate your FIRE number using the 4% rule — and find out what it really takes to retire early.2️⃣ How to get a clear overview of your income, expenses, assets, and debts.3️⃣ How to live frugally (not miserably) and cut costs without cutting joy.4️⃣ How to increase your income — and why this step is just as important as saving.5️⃣ How to invest smart through diversification, pensions, real estate, and ETFs — plus how to optimize your taxes for maximum returns.💬 Do you want to reach financial independence faster? Tell us your FIRE goal in the comments!Best Savings Account in Europe Calculator:https://perfinex.de/calculator/best-savings-account-in-europe/-----PerFinEx GmbH - Personal Finance for ExpatsThe #1 English-speaking & Independent Financial Planner in GermanyFurther legal information is available at perfinex.de/impressum

October 2025 brings major updates in Germany — from money and banking to healthcare, pensions, and everyday life. Some of these changes will save you money, some will affect your daily routine, and others might surprise you.In this video, we break down the 7 most important changes you need to know for October 2025 in Germany — explained clearly and with practical tips on what you should do about them.Best Bank Account in Germany Calculator:https://perfinex.de/calculator/best-bank-account-in-germany/

How expensive is Oktoberfest 2025 really? 🍺Every year, millions of people travel to Munich for the world’s biggest beer festival "Wiesn" – but few realize how quickly the costs add up. In this video, we break down every single expense of a trip to Oktoberfest and show you smart money-saving tips along the way.From flights ✈️ and hotels 🏨 to traditional outfits 👗🩳, beer 🍻, food 🥨, rides 🎡, and souvenirs 🎁 – we calculate what a tourist actually spends during Oktoberfest. You’ll also learn how beer prices have skyrocketed over the decades, and why a Maß in 2025 can cost nearly as much as gold.Watch until the end to discover practical tips to save money at Oktoberfest, whether you’re a first-time visitor or a returning regular.-----PerFinEx GmbH - Personal Finance for ExpatsThe #1 English-speaking & Independent Financial Planner in GermanyFurther legal information is available at perfinex.de/impressum

Why does half your salary in Germany disappear every month? 🤔If you’re an expat working in Germany, your first payslip probably shocked you: a huge gap between your gross and net salary. In this video, we break down exactly where your money goes — from income tax to the five pillars of German social security:- Health insurance 🏥- Pension insurance 💰- Unemployment insurance 💼- Care insurance 👵- Accident insurance ⚠️By the end, you’ll understand why your net salary is so much lower than expected — and what you can do to build your own wealth alongside Germany’s system.-----PerFinEx GmbH - Personal Finance for ExpatsThe #1 English-speaking & Independent Financial Planner in GermanyFurther legal information is available at perfinex.de/impressum

Most homebuyers in Germany forget at least 3 major costs when buying a house or apartment – and by the time you realize it, it’s already too late.In this video, we reveal the 7 hidden costs of buying property in Germany that almost nobody talks about. These extra expenses can quickly add up to tens of thousands of euros – and if you don’t plan for them, your dream home could turn into a financial nightmare.Whether you’re an expat in Germany or a first-time buyer, this guide will show you:✅ What Kaufnebenkosten really are (taxes, notary, land registry, realtor fees)✅ Which financing costs banks hide in the fine print✅ Why you should always hire an independent expert or surveyor✅ How renovation and modernization laws can cost you thousands✅ The surprising price tag of moving into your new home✅ The ongoing operating expenses every owner faces✅ And finally: the selling costs nobody thinks about – until it’s too late

If you're an expat living in Germany, navigating the insurance jungle can be overwhelming. 🤯In this video, we break down which insurances are absolutely essential to protect your financial future - and which ones are a total waste of money.✅ What we cover:- The 4 must-have insurances every expat in Germany needs- The 3 most useless insurances you should avoid- Real-life examples and case studies (including how we cut one viewer’s pension fees by 77%)- Key German insurance terms explained: Haftpflichtversicherung, Krankenversicherung, Berufsunfähigkeitsversicherung, Restschuldversicherung, and more💸 Whether you're new to Germany or have been here for years, this guide will save you hundreds - if not thousands - of Euros every year.🧠 Topics covered in this video:- Best insurances in Germany for expats- Private vs. public health insurance (GKV vs. PKV)- Why liability insurance is a must- The truth about glass break and accident insurance- How to protect your income with disability insurance- Private pensions and how to avoid high fees- German insurance system explained simplyRead the full article on our website: https://perfinex.de/must-have-useless-insurances-expats-germany/-----PerFinEx GmbH - Personal Finance for ExpatsThe #1 English-speaking & Independent Financial Planner in GermanyFurther legal information is available at perfinex.de/impressum

Everyone talks about financial freedom — but which careers in Germany actually give you the best chance to achieve it? 🤔In this video, we rank the 10 best jobs in Germany by three criteria:💶 Salary – how much money you can realistically earn🚪 Accessibility – how realistic it is to get the job⚖️ Work-Life Balance – how much freedom you really have outside of workFrom IT and Consulting to Real Estate, Investment Banking, Law, and Medicine — all the way up to Business Owners and CEOs — we’ll break down the trade-offs of each career so you know exactly which paths can truly set you free.-----PerFinEx GmbH - Personal Finance for ExpatsThe #1 English-speaking & Independent Financial Planner in GermanyFurther legal information is available at perfinex.de/impressum

Stop wasting time on ImmoScout. 🧨We show you exactly how to find hidden real estate deals in Germany — including the off-market properties that never show up on the big platforms.Whether you're a first-time buyer or an investor, you'll learn:✅ The difference between on-market vs. off-market deals✅ Why most buyers never see the best real estate deals✅ How to get exclusive access to properties before they go public✅ Pro tips for using platforms like ImmoScout24, Kleinanzeigen, and more✅ Real examples of how we buy properties 30% below market valueThe German real estate market is competitive — but it’s not impossible. You just need the right strategy and the right property.Find our properties on perfinex.de/properties-----PerFinEx GmbH - Personal Finance for ExpatsThe #1 English-speaking & Independent Financial Planner in GermanyFurther legal information is available at perfinex.de/impressum

Do you want to buy a property in Germany? 🤔Then make sure your mortgage application is complete from the very beginning!In this video, Axel explains the exact documents you need to get your financing approved — fast and without delay. German banks are extremely thorough, and even one missing document can cause delays, higher interest rates, or even cost you the property. Use the full checklist below to stay ahead of the game!Personal Documents Checklist (For All Applicants):✅ Completely Filled & Signed Self-Declaration for Real Estate Financing✅ Payslips of the Last 3 Months✅ Payslip of December Last Year✅ Income Tax Certificate (Lohnsteuerbescheinigung)✅ Income Tax Declaration from Last Year (Steuererklärung & Steuerbescheid)✅ Proof of Private Health Insurance (if applicable)✅ Proof of Equity (Bank statements, Buy-back values from pensions, etc.)✅ Bank Account Statements of the Last 3 Months✅ Public Pension Statement (Renteninformation)✅ Passport & Residence Permit (Photo/Scan)✅ Loan Contracts for Existing Loans (if any)✅ If you already own a property: Land registry (Grundbuchauszug)Property Documents (If NOT Buying the property from PerFinEx):✅ Kaufvertragsentwurf✅ Grundbuchauszug (nicht älter als 3 Monate)✅ Teilungserklärung und Aufteilungsplan (bei Eigentumswohnungen)✅ Baubeschreibung✅ Grundriss mit Maßangaben✅ Bemaßte Baupläne / Schnittzeichnungen✅ Maßstabsgetreue Flurkarte / Lageplan✅ Wohnflächenberechnung✅ Berechnung des umbauten Raumes (Kubatur)✅ Exposé des Objekts✅ Farbfotos des Objekts (Vorder-, Rückseite, ggf. innen)✅ Nachweis Wohngebäudeversicherung✅ Erbbaurechtsvertrag (bei Erbbaurecht)✅ Kostenaufstellung der Baumaßnahmen (Neubau/Umbau/Renovierung)✅ Werkvertrag für das Bauvorhaben✅ Aufstellung geplanter EigenleistungenHelpful Links:👉 Check out our properties: perfinex.de/properties👉 Download the self-declaration form here: perfinex.de/self-declaration👉 Free meeting with us: perfinex.de/meeting👉 Order your "Renteninformation" for free: www.eservice-drv.de/SelfServiceWeb-----PerFinEx GmbH - Personal Finance for ExpatsThe #1 English-speaking & Independent Financial Planner in GermanyFurther legal information is available at perfinex.de/impressum

Are you new to investing and unsure where to start? 🤔In this video, we’ll show you how to start investing in Germany step-by-step - even with small amounts of money. We’ll guide you through the basics, from building a financial foundation to choosing the right investment strategy, and avoiding the biggest beginner mistakes.🧠 You’ll Learn:- Why saving alone isn’t enough in 2025- How to build an emergency fund (Notgroschen) before investing- The difference between stocks, bonds, ETFs, real estate & more- How to create your own ETF-Sparplan or investment strategy- Which beginner mistakes to avoid when investingWhether you're investing for a home, (early) retirement, or financial freedom - this guide will help you take the first step with confidence.Best flexible savings account in Europe:https://perfinex.de/calculator/best-savings-account-in-europe/Best fixed-term savings account in Europe:https://perfinex.de/calculator/best-fixed-term-savings-account-in-europe/Best investment account in Germany:https://perfinex.de/calculator/best-investment-account-in-germany/Read the full article on our website:https://perfinex.de/how-to-start-investing-for-beginners/-----PerFinEx GmbH - Personal Finance for ExpatsThe #1 English-speaking & Independent Financial Planner in GermanyFurther legal information is available at perfinex.de/impressum

🛠️ I Bought the WORST Flat in Germany – Here’s What Happened!What happens when you buy one of the messiest, moldiest, and most rundown flats in Germany… and try to turn it into a profitable real estate fix & flip? 🤔In this video, I take you inside the full renovation journey – from mold-covered walls and horrible smells to a stunning, modern two-room apartment in Augsburg’s city center. We spent 74.000€ on the flat and invested another 55.600€ into renovations – but did it pay off? Or was it a complete disaster?🔍 You’ll see:- Why most buyers walked away (and why we didn’t)- The biggest renovation mistakes you must avoid- How we restructured the layout to unlock value- How to legally save tens of thousands in taxes with Germany’s Erhaltungsaufwand- Real numbers, expert insights, and no sugar-coatingWe’re not showing you a highlight reel. This is the raw truth about fix & flip investing in Germany – the risks, rewards, and real-world lessons that every property investor needs to know.Nuremberg Exposé with high tax savings:https://perfinex.de/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Nuremberg-YouTube.pdf

Are you paying too much for your health insurance in Germany? 😱In this video, we reveal the 6 most expensive health insurance mistakes that cost Germans hundreds or even thousands of Euros every year — in both public (GKV) and private (PKV) health insurance.Whether you’re in public health insurance (gesetzliche Krankenversicherung) or in private health insurance (private Krankenversicherung), avoiding these mistakes can save you a lot of money and improve your benefits.🎯 What you’ll learn in this video:✔️ How to save money in public health insurance by switching providers, using bonus programs, and checking your Beitragsbescheid.✔️ How to avoid costly traps in private health insurance, from cheap “millionaire tariffs” to missing cashback and not optimizing your plan.✔️ Practical tips you can apply TODAY to lower your health insurance costs in Germany.-----PerFinEx GmbH - Personal Finance for ExpatsThe #1 English-speaking & Independent Financial Planner in GermanyFurther legal information is available at perfinex.de/impressum

Is YOUR net worth above or below average for your age? 🤔In this video, we break down what your net worth should be at every age in Germany - from your 20s all the way into your 80s.We analyzed 147 reliable sources to show you not only the median and top 10% net worth by age group, but also what you can actually do to grow your wealth:📌 The main financial focus for each age group📌 Investing strategy tailored to your life stage📌 Actionable steps to increase your net worth decade by decadeWhether you're just getting started or preparing for retirement, this video gives you a realistic benchmark and a clear financial roadmap.Read the full article on our website:https://perfinex.de/german-net-worth-expats/-----PerFinEx GmbH - Personal Finance for ExpatsThe #1 English-speaking & Independent Financial Planner in GermanyFurther legal information is available at perfinex.de/impressum

Are you an expat living in Germany and worried about your finances? You're not alone — and this video might save you thousands of euros. 🤓From budgeting and investing to taxes, retirement planning, and real estate, this video breaks down the most common financial mistakes expats make — and how to avoid them. Whether you’re just starting your financial journey or want to make sure you’re doing everything right in Germany’s complex system — this is the ultimate guide.🎯 What you’ll learn:✅ The #1 mistake that’s costing you money without you noticing✅ Why skipping your tax return is a costly error (85% get refunds!)✅ How to build wealth through smart investing (even as a beginner)✅ How to protect yourself with the right insurances✅ Why real estate can be dangerous if you rush into itDon’t let Germany’s tax and financial system trip you up. Learn how to take control of your money and make it work for you — not against you.Best Savings Account in Europe Calculator:https://perfinex.de/calculator/best-savings-account-in-europe/-----PerFinEx GmbH - Personal Finance for ExpatsThe #1 English-speaking & Independent Financial Planner in GermanyFurther legal information is available at perfinex.de/impressum

Buying, leasing, financing, or car subscription — what’s the smartest and cheapest way to get a car in Germany in 2025? 🤔In this video, we break down the Total Cost of Ownership (TCO), compare all major options, and help you figure out what fits your budget best. Whether you're thinking about buying a new car, looking for the best leasing deals, or curious if Auto-Abo is worth it — this video gives you the full picture, including real-world tips and personal experience.👉 Avoid the #1 wealth killer — make smarter car decisions.📘 In this video you’ll learn:- What is TCO (Total Cost of Ownership) and why it matters- How much car you can actually afford based on your income- Pros & cons of buying, leasing, and Auto-Abo- Hidden costs most people forget when choosing a car- Which car option fits your lifestyle and budget bestBest Car Loan in Germany Calculator:https://perfinex.de/calculator/best-car-loan-in-germany/-----PerFinEx GmbH - Personal Finance for ExpatsThe #1 English-speaking & Independent Financial Planner in GermanyFurther legal information is available at perfinex.de/impressum

Are you an expat in Germany wondering why everything feels so expensive? 🤔You’re probably leaving hundreds — if not thousands — of Euros on the table every year without even realizing it.In this video, we share 7 powerful, little-known money-saving secrets specifically for expats living in Germany. From slashing your insurance costs and maximizing tax refunds to claiming government bonuses and investing smarter — these tips go way beyond “cut your Netflix subscription.”💡 What You'll Learn:✔️ How to find and cancel hidden subscriptions✔️ How to switch to free banks in Germany✔️ Which tax tips can get you over 1,000€ back✔️ Government bonuses like BAföG, Riester, Wohngeld & more✔️ How to pay less for health insurance (or even get money back!)✔️ Smart pension hacks that reduce your taxes✔️ Why you should pay off debt before savingIf you want to build wealth, reduce taxes, and master your finances in Germany — subscribe and turn on notifications so you don’t miss future videos!Best bank account in Germany calculator:https://perfinex.de/calculator/best-bank-account-in-germany/-----PerFinEx GmbH - Personal Finance for ExpatsThe #1 English-speaking & Independent Financial Planner in GermanyFurther legal information is available at perfinex.de/impressum

Tax deductions in Germany can save you thousands of Euros every year - especially if you’re an expat! 🤑In this video, we’ll break down the biggest tax deductions for expats in Germany and show you how to maximize your tax refund.Did you know that 9 out of 10 people in Germany get an average tax refund of 1.200€? The problem: many expats don’t know which expenses they can deduct. Don’t leave money on the table!Key Tax Deductions Covered:✅ Work & commuting costs (Pendlerpauschale, home office, double households)✅ Childcare, school, and family deductions✅ Personal finance & retirement savings (pensions, investments, real estate)✅ Household services & renovations✅ Moving costs, training, and expat-specific tax benefitsWhether you’re new to Germany or have lived here for years, these tax tips will help you reduce your taxable income, save money, and boost your refund.-----PerFinEx GmbH - Personal Finance for ExpatsThe #1 English-speaking & Independent Financial Planner in GermanyFurther legal information is available at perfinex.de/impressum

Starting a business in Germany as a foreigner or expat may seem intimidating - but it doesn’t have to be! 🇩🇪In this video, we break down how to start your business in Germany in 5 simple steps, covering everything from business types and bank accounts to legal registration, insurance, and trademark protection.Whether you're a freelancer, entrepreneur, or digital nomad, this guide will help you navigate the complex German system and launch your business with confidence.Best Business Bank Account in Germany:https://perfinex.de/calculator/best-business-bank-account-in-germany/Read the full article on our website:https://perfinex.de/how-to-start-your-business-in-germany/-----PerFinEx GmbH - Personal Finance for ExpatsThe #1 English-speaking & Independent Financial Planner in GermanyFurther legal information is available at perfinex.de/impressum

Do you want to LEGALLY pay LESS taxes in Germany while growing your wealth with ETFs? 📈In this video, we break down the 3 levels of the German pension system — and show you exactly how to use ETFs and smart pension strategies to save big on taxes and build your future financial freedom.✅ Learn how the Deutsche Rentenversicherung (German public pension) really works — and why it might not be enough for your retirement✅ Discover the base pension (Basisrente) and how it offers MASSIVE tax benefits while investing in ETFs✅ Find out if the Riester pension or company pension (Betriebliche Altersvorsorge) is right for you✅ Get the inside scoop on the new Pan-European Personal Pension (PEPP) — and why flexibility is key✅ See why private pensions (private Altersvorsorge) could be your best option for ETF investing and tax-free growth👉 Whether you're planning to retire in Germany or abroad, this guide is a MUST-WATCH for anyone serious about optimizing their retirement savings with ETFs.Read the full article on our website:https://perfinex.de/german-pensions-etfs-explained/