Economic conditions significantly influence real estate prices in Olpe. For instance, the unemployment rate in the region has hovered around 5.5% in recent years, which contributes to household income levels and purchasing power. As disposable income increases, demand for homes rises, pushing prices higher. In 2022, the average real estate price in Olpe was about €2,500 per square meter, reflecting a 3% increase from the previous year. Price dynamics also correlate with the broader economic climate; during periods of economic growth, such as 2020-2021, property sales surged, with sales recorded at approximately 300 units annually. In contrast, when inflation rates spiked to around 4.1% in early 2022, potential buyers became hesitant, leading to a slowdown in transactions and stagnation in prices. Furthermore, interest rates play a crucial role; as the European Central Bank raised interest rates to combat inflation, the cost of borrowing increased, which has the potential to dampen real estate activity in Olpe.