Following the electoral victory of the Left party in Berlin, Germany, a proposal to expropriate large housing corporations is sparking national debate. The plan aims to transfer ownership of significant residential properties from private companies to public control, mirroring approaches seen in Vienna, Austria. This initiative seeks to address the ongoing housing shortage and rising rental costs in Berlin. Proponents argue that it’s a necessary step to ensure affordable housing for all residents. However, the proposal faces considerable opposition, raising questions about legality, compensation for property owners, and the logistical challenges of managing such a large-scale transfer of assets. The core question remains: can Berlin successfully replicate Vienna’s model of social housing, and at what cost? The debate centers on whether expropriation is a viable solution or a radical overreach.