On this page, you'll find valuable tips and information to consider when buying a property. Mistakes in real estate transactions are particularly costly and often difficult to rectify. Save yourself the stress and hassle: We'll tell you what to look out for.
It doesn't matter whether you're looking for your first apartment as a single person, want to build a home with your young family as a nest builder, or see yourself as a future lord of the manor:
The intention to avoid mistakes and not spend more money than necessary is deeply ingrained in all buyers.
As with any journey, careful planning is crucial when buying real estate. The aspects of financing and finding your dream property, in particular, should be considered with due diligence.
Financial planning
Nothing is worse than finding the perfect property tailored to your needs, only to be unable to purchase it because the financing falls through.
Ensure in advance that your financing bank receives all information about your financial situation. This will enable them to inform you of the scope of your financing and, if necessary, to provide you with a financing commitment at short notice.
Knowing what you want
Once you know your financial limits, you need to become aware of your real needs. Or, put simply: only when you know what you truly need and want can you search for it within your financial means.
A structured list of your criteria, including their relative importance, will generally help you here. Write down all the criteria that are important to you when buying a property. These don't just have to be things your new property must fulfill; they can also be things you absolutely must avoid – the important thing is to clearly mark them. Take your time with your list and add to it as needed. This is one of the most important decisions you will make!
You surely don't want to waste your time only to discover on-site that the property you're interested in is located next to a slaughterhouse. Reputable real estate agents will gladly send you the most important information about the property by email before the viewing. Above all, the condition of a property should be a deciding factor in whether it's worthwhile for you to view it. Price is not a measure of quality and condition.
On-site during the inspection
Take your time and find a quiet place to view a property. Request a property brochure so you can review the property at your leisure. A professional real estate agent will have no problem providing you with all the important information about a property that appeals to you.
A look at the cadastral map, the building plans (different qualities depending on the price range) and the land register should be a matter of course for you and pose no problem for the real estate agent.
Verbal agreements?
Does your real estate agent assure you of a specific property feature? Great! However, unless you have it in writing, this promise is worthless, as you have to provide proof that it was actually said.
Have the key qualities that a real estate agent promises you confirmed in writing. Professional agents who are transparent in their sales activities will gladly comply with your request.
The energy certificate
Since 2014, an energy performance certificate has been mandatory . Unfortunately, many real estate agents and private sellers still don't take this obligation seriously enough, which can sometimes result in hefty fines.
Make sure you ask to see the energy performance certificate! Both owners and real estate agents are obligated to show it to you without being asked. It is your right, and indeed the law, to inspect the energy performance certificate of the house.
Consulting expert opinions
"Is it possible to view the house again, perhaps together with a professional?"
Absolutely! We always recommend that if you don't feel confident assessing a property yourself, you consult an independent expert. They will help you identify any defects and estimate the associated costs. A reputable real estate agent will have no problem conducting multiple viewings with you.
