Document review for the sale of an inherited property

Between 2015 and 2024, 4.34 million properties were inherited in Germany. Many of these are being sold, which requires considerable organization. The property must be cleared out, prepared for sale, and marketed. At the same time, all the necessary documents for the sale must be compiled or obtained. Do you know what these documents are? Our document check will help you find out.

The most important thing: the certificate of inheritance

Only with this document in your file can you begin planning the sale. The application is submitted to the probate court (part of the local district court). You will typically need your identity card, and if available, a certified copy of the deceased's will and death certificate.

Property documents

Even the floor plan can be a challenge if it can't be found or has to be created first. But it should be available at the latest for the property listing.

For the property listing, you will also need the energy performance certificate , which is mandatory for all buildings. If there is no certificate yet, or if it is outdated, for the inherited property, have one drawn up by an energy consultant. The certificate is then valid for ten years.

Equally important is the land register extract . You can apply for this at the land registry office of the local court. Before you go, find out more online, as in many cities you can now do this.

For a cadastral map, contact the relevant land registry office. It shows the surrounding area of ​​your inherited property. The application can be made by phone, in person, in writing, or by email.

Homeowner's insurance is particularly important for the prospective buyer , and you should have proof of this insurance on file. Damage to the property could occur before the notary appointment, and this damage would not be covered. For example, in the event of a flood or a lightning strike. Without proof of homeowner's insurance, the prospective buyer's bank will most likely reject their loan application.

No time? Ask the expert!

If, after reading this list, you think you don't have the time to obtain these documents, don't despair. A real estate agent can not only help you get an overview of all the necessary documents and obtain them, but will also handle the marketing and all sales processes for you.

Do you need professional help selling your inherited property? Contact us! We'd be happy to advise you.

Notice

For the sake of readability, this text uses the generic masculine form. Female and other gender identities are explicitly included where relevant to the statement.

Legal notice: This article does not constitute tax or legal advice for any specific case. Please consult a lawyer and/or tax advisor to clarify the facts of your individual situation.

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