Flipper house & apartment 2026: Guest “Flipper Immo”

Today I’m talking to our interview guest Johannes Schwärzler. With his YouTube channel Flipper Immo, he shows fix & flip projects, explains the strategy, presents before / after examples and much more, all from the flipper practice. What does flipping mean to him, what are his experiences and tips as a house flipper!

PS: Finally, I asked Johannes for 3 video recommendations for Fix & Flip beginners. You can find the videos spread throughout the interview

FIV: Hello Johannes! Your story is really inspiring for those who want to make money in real estate and like hands-on work! Before we get to that, can you tell me in a nutshell, even for those who have heard about “flipping houses and apartments” for the first time, what is the “fix & flip” of real estate all about?

Johannes: As I grew up on a farm, I have always been involved in building, working and repairing. The first time I heard about the concept(buy, renovate, sellproperty) was on TV in a program from the USA: Fixxer Upper. A couple buys apartments and houses, renovates them and then sells them.

Fix and flip is primarily about creating value with worn-out apartments. The purchase usually also solves a few problems for the owner, who does not want to renovate, someone who can no longer rent the apartment or simply wants to sell it. The property is then renovated to a high standard and put back on the market after a few months.

Why is that possible? The best comparison is eating out vs. going out to eat. We could buy ingredients cheaply and spend time and energy cooking the food ourselves. Alternatively, we go to a restaurant, have someone cook, pay the rent and employees and prepare the ingredients, and are then prepared to pay money for this practical service. In this case, the restaurant owner has the margin and the associated profit.

It’s the same with apartments. Very few people want to renovate or even solve problems themselves. That’s where we come in as “pinball machines”.

Get out of the hamster wheel! Flipping and YouTube

FIV: Could you tell us how you went from an idyllic Demeter farm in the Allgäu region to real estate trading? What inspired you to do so?

Johannes: Looking back, all the jobs and experiences I’ve had so far have come together to form a big puzzle that has given me all the important skills to do this job.

After several years in corporations and start-ups, the day-to-day work no longer felt like you were creating real added value with what you were creating. You drive up sales and get new customers, but it’s not a satisfying creation of something. I also always wanted to be my own boss, to create real added value through something I produce and, of course, to be financially rewarded for it. After 10 years abroad, I realized that my future is right here and now and not hiding behind the next job or the next pay rise. As a result, I made the decision within a few days to finally do what I always wanted to do. To create something new from something old and earn money at the same time. Since that day, I’ve been living my hobby and sharing it with a cool community on YouTube and Instagram from day one.

It’s extremely fulfilling and fun every day. Flipping has so many different components. The financing, the people, estate agents, bankers, craftsmen, owners and, of course, a happy buyer who appreciates my work.

It’s extremely varied! I love it!

His start: draughtsman, estate agent, now pinball player

FIV: You have experienced different places like Dubai, Mallorca and Germany and had different jobs in real estate agencies and companies. What finally made you decide to start your own real estate flipping journey?

Johannes: That’s right. I trained as a draftsman when I was 16 and that was my first taste of real estate. I then went on to do my vocational baccalaureate because, to be honest, I didn’t really know what I wanted to do with my life.

As a result, in 2013, I went straight to Australia for 6 months for Work & Travel at the age of 23 and then straight to Dubai. I wanted to get out! I wanted to earn money, I thought that money makes you happy. In Dubai, I became a real estate agent as a career changer, was quite successful for my age and was able to make a good living from it. After 2 years, I wanted something different and then became a sales manager in a German company. With an excellent salary, a Porsche and 2-3 employees under my management, I realized that this couldn’t be it. Things don’t make me as happy as I had expected. The big mistake was my false expectations!

The opportunity arose and I moved to Mallorca, so after almost 4.5 years in Dubai, I started a new chapter.

Once there, I continued to work as a sales manager for an international German airline. In the B2B area, I looked after Amex, Priceline and similar major customers in the USA and Canada, so I got to see the world! I opened first flights in the USA at the airport on behalf of my company and of course visited many customers across the country. I am infinitely grateful for this experience to this day! An absolute privilege!

When COVID came, my 7-year relationship ended and I was at an important point in my life again, I had to make another groundbreaking decision.

What to do? Wait or simply… start!

There were two options: 1. to do the same thing I had been doing for the last few years. Look for a job. Work my way up and then sooner or later end up where I was at the time. Not quite fulfilled, looking for more and not my own boss.

Option 2: Whenever someone asked me back in Dubai what I wanted to do when I was “rich”, my answer was: buy old buildings, renovate them and breathe new life into them.

The famous loud click then came overnight: “Why wait until I’m rich to do what I want to do later. I’ll just do it now”!

So the plan was set. Create added value and thus generate more value. For me. According to my ideals, visions and creative ideas. After all, we alone are responsible for growth.

Video tip #1 – Old apartment becomes a modern luxury space

The ultimate MAKEOVER, you can find more videos on Flipper Immo.

The first Fix & Flip property

FIV: When you decided to follow your own path, you bought and renovated your first property in just two weeks. Can you tell us more about what this step was like for you and how you approached the renovation?

Johannes: Due to Covid and the long relationship, I decided to go back to Germany. To my origins. I had yellow postcards printed from Mallorca (“looking for a private apartment”) and ordered them to Germany. They arrived and on the 3rd day I was already out and about in the city for hours handing out these postcards. After a few days I received the first call, the first viewing and the notary appointment was 2 weeks later.

I also keep noticing that this is unfortunately a bit rare these days and that we try to get too much information about a topic. We always think there’s just one piece of information missing so that I can get started. The reality is that information is important, but implementation is even more important.

The first 2, 3 objects

The aim was also to renovate the first 2-3 objects as best I could myself in order to get to know the material and my “new” product. As I knew that I would be doing a lot of flipping in the future, it was important for me to get to know my product. Inside and out. Of course, the best way to do this is to renovate an apartment yourself with your father, the hard-working farmer to whom you owe your manual skills.

To this day, I am incredibly proud that he is part of my first GmbH and “works” wherever he can! I call this part: giving something back!

The first project was an exciting step. I knew that no matter how long it took or what mistakes I made, I was only doing it for my future and myself! It was so much fun that while one apartment was still being renovated, I had already reserved the second one.

More money, more happiness?

FIV: You mentioned that you earned your annual salary in just three months with the sale of this first property. How has this experience affected your perspective on work and money?

Johannes: I’ve spent my life chasing money, or rather I thought that more money meant more happiness. From the day I created added value with something I’m passionate about, money was no longer so important and has been flowing more than ever since.

Of course, this is also due to the industry in which I work. A restaurant or car dealer sometimes has a margin of 25% or more on their products, but with an apartment in the Allgäu region, you quickly cross the €200-300,000 mark. In this case, 25% is of course significantly more money than 25% on a car that costs €20,000. From these beginnings and the countless doors that have opened, there are now several limited companies and the number is growing every year.

FIV: Your transformation from the pursuit of money to what you describe as the most fulfilling job or hobby in the world is fascinating. Can you tell us more about how your motivation and focus has changed?

Johannes: I haven’t gotten up for money for about 3 years. I can organize my day completely myself, can do more or less what I want and enjoy every day that I can live out my hobby, now my job. Since then, the focus has always been on win-win situations. As long as I put quality before quantity and don’t try to squeeze every penny out so that it ends up in my pocket, things have been going extremely well ever since!

Do what makes you happy!

FIV: As someone who is now working for their passion rather than just money, what advice would you give to young people who are looking for a fulfilling career or hobby?

Johannes: Go into crafts! Art, crafts and a very few other professions are proven to make you “happy” because you have a creative process. You see what you’ve done at the end of the day. Also, with the current developments, heating laws and the biggest housing shortage the country has ever seen, it makes extreme sense to get into an industry that is part of the “real estate” economic chain. Yes, it sounds like a lot of work, especially for the “work-life balance generation”, but success is hard work in 99% of cases, and it doesn’t make you rich overnight. Even if the gurus on Instagram tell you that every day.

Plumbing, electrical and other trades requiring a master craftsman’s certificate will have no problems finding work for the next 20 years.

To the young people: Please stop comparing yourselves! Social media is 95% fake.

Everyone seems richer, no one works and everyone has a supposedly better life than you do. The grass is not greener on the other side, but where you water it!

Remember: everyone has their own pace! Not everyone has to be rich, not everyone can be rich and not everyone should have employees, be a boss or sell online courses from Bali on their PC. Above all, it is important to understand that we are not working towards a final point in life. Not a career point after which everything magically gets better. Not a relationship that works without work. The journey is still the destination and if you do something you don’t like every day, that’s fine for a while, but sooner or later you should do something that fulfills you, provides a roof over your head and you have enough time for family and friends.

Video tip #2 – Buy, renovate, sell your apartment!

First project 2023, very recent:

Personal flipping experiences: What should you look out for?

FIV: How has your personal journey in real estate flipping influenced you in terms of your values and priorities? What role does materialism play in your life today?

Johannes: Very, very little. Of course I buy new things from time to time, but cars, watches, brand-name clothes or anything else are completely unimportant to me. I primarily spend my money on travel and experiences. The question you should ask yourself when making major purchases is: if no one was allowed to see the item I really wanted to buy and I couldn’t tell anyone about it, would I still buy it or would I buy it to have an effect on those around me?

Money is a means to an end. Money is only valuable if it is used for something. A lever, so to speak. For me, it’s primarily buying my time back out of the system, traveling and wonderful experiences with a handful of important people.

FIV: You gave the impression that your journey in real estate flipping has only just begun. What are your long-term goals and visions for your future in this field?

Johannes: yes, absolutely! I’ve only just got going. There are a few things I’m working on at the moment. On the one hand, I will continue to flip 1-2 properties in the Allgäu with my father. In the other GmbH, I’m flipping larger projects with partners. YouTube will continue to be extremely expanded in 2024. A new company is currently being founded in the real estate software sector, which will make a huge impact on the market. We are solving a real problem and not just artificially creating one and then presenting the solution as a start-up. However, I can’t reveal anything more about this at the moment; you’ll find out in the spring on social media.

The 3-year goal is to flip Mallorca, again quality instead of quantity. Of course, this is also economically viable, but my primary aim is to have one foot back on my old island so that I can escape the cold weather in Bavaria from time to time and live on the island for a while.

FIV: Finally, what advice would you give to young people who are setting out to follow their own path and pursue their passions, as you have done?

Johannes: You have to be aware that you have to work for success. Dropshipping, affiliate marketing, smma or other entertaining business trends only work if you invest years of your time, diligence and work. Focus on one thing at the beginning! Not 7 income streams or whatever other nonsense is being spread. Every successful person out there has started a business and made it big over a few years. After that, you can diversify yourself and your attention. This usually happens all by itself because you expand your network accordingly and new opportunities are brought to you. To make the first big leap, you need laser focus!

FIV: Thank you very much, Johannes, for your insights and your inspiring story, your experiences. I can also endorse your focus on one thing in every respect. It was a great insight into the topic. Finally, our #3 video recommendation for your Fix & Flip entry!

Video tip #3 – Before and after! A Scandinavian dream!

This is how Johannes renovated! You can find more videos on Flipper Immo.

Don’t do this! The top 3 real estate mistakes

In our magazine, we have already given a lot of input when it comes to the first property. For example, this XL guide: Buying your first apartment or self-disclosure for the bank. But before we get started:

What do you need to pay attention to?

Checklist:

1. Buying a property for your own use instead of as an investment
2. Shopping without enough negotiating leeway
3. Buy without accurate verification

Occupy property yourself – Error 1

Mistake 1: Buying a property for your own use instead of as an investment

Investors often make the mistake of using their first purchased property directly for their own use instead of treating it as an investment. When the property is owner-occupied, one loses the ability to finance through rental income. Instead, one must incur costs for management such as taxes, insurance and operating expenses, which increase by an average of 5% each year. In addition, one’s credit rating suffers because no rental income is generated. Instead, the first property should be used exclusively as an investment, with the return from the rental income used to pay off the loan and build up capital.

Too little room for negotiation – Error 2

Mistake 2: Buying without enough negotiating leeway

Another mistake is to buy a property without enough room to negotiate. The price of a property is usually negotiable, but investors should have enough leeway to negotiate with the seller and get the best price. It is also important to keep a sufficient reserve for unforeseen costs.

Buying without accurate check – error

Mistake 3: Buying without accurate verification

A third and most important problem with buying a property is purchasing it without a thorough inspection. It is important to check the property thoroughly before making a purchase decision.

Thorsten Bader

Interview with Thorsten Bader

Thorsten Bader, an experienced real estate expert, has built up the online portal “Immobilien-Erfahrung.de” together with his team in order to provide interested parties with comprehensive knowledge and tips on buying and financing real estate.

More expert tips (free of charge) can be found here:

• Real Estate Experience.com

Real estate investment : avoid mistakes and become a professional

A real estate investment is a long-term investment and the best way to build up a large fortune with little equity. There are many types of real estate, such as detached houses, semi-detached houses, zero-energy houses or maisonettes, old buildings or apartments. This could be exactly the right thing for you. It is underestimated how quickly life can change. Successful investors calculate before the purchase, whether the expected return on an object covers the financing costs and in the end even profits are achieved. You can learn that here too!

Before we get to the book recommendations for real estate investing, here are 3 tips on the subject: Learn for free on Lukinski, we have video tips on Youtube and for those who want to become a real estate investor, another look at the subject of taxes, because the more money you make, the more taxes you pay. The more knowledge you build up here, the less taxes you pay and the more equity you have, for your investments.

If you are looking for online tips, we can recommend Lukinski.de. Here you will find everything from getting started in real estate to real estate as an investment through renting to saving taxes with real estate (external). All free of charge.

Tip! Overview Real Estate XXL

The world of real estate is complex and multifaceted. If you want to keep an overview and avoid making mistakes, you should prepare well and clarify as many open questions as possible in good time. No matter whether you want to build, buy and rent out a property or live in it yourself, or even use a property as an investment to generate passive income: The preparation is the A&O. Here you will find articles, as well as book and video tips with successful and helpful books and videos on the subject of real estate – including tips and tricks from professionals and experts.

• Book & Video Tips Overview: Real Estate

Tax optimization: Experiences from Tax Coaching

If you write about real estate, you have to educate yourself. More concretely, when it is no longer just about personal use, but also about renting. Because, the biggest item on the expense side is taxes. The more you earn, the more taxes you have to pay – the problem is clearly defined, what to do? Learn from experience, from those who have made it. Many say that the Next Level Tax Coaching is the best in Germany. Reason enough to take part yourself. You want to become a real estate investor yourself?

Read more about tax coaching here:

• Tax optimization: Coaching

Richer than the Geissens

Rating: 4.2 / 5.0 (402 ratings)

Achieve financial freedom in 5 years and become maximally successful. Alex Fischer shows the reader how to make it even as a total beginner with zero euros starting capital in just five years to the real estate millionaire. This book offers valuable practical strategies to achieve sensational success in all areas of life. There are 43 timeless laws of success that not only lead to financial freedom, but that anyone can use to live their life the way they’ve always wanted to. The tips in this book were developed exclusively for people who expect only the best.

In exciting stories and examples you will learn::

1. How to develop the mindset to attract money and success like a magnet.
2. What tools you need to be truly free.
3. How to build a money machine that works for you day and night while you sit back and enjoy.

• Buy at Amazon

Buy real estate, rent it out and earn money

Rating: 4.5 / 5.0 (153 ratings)

Investing in real estate is not subject to fluctuations in the stock market or inflation. You can start wonderfully due to the low interest rates now:

• With a real estate yields of up to 8 % are possible (if the investor manages cleverly).
• Real estate is an investment that retains its value – in the long term, it can even be expected to increase in value.
• Who invests correctly, builds up a lucrative additional source of income, an optimal old age provision or even a completely new professional mainstay!
• The demand for housing is growing and there is no end in sight. Due to the housing shortage, higher and higher yields can be achieved, especially in cities.
• There are plenty of tax savings to be had with a property investment.
• Buy at Amazon

Tax lexicon of the basics

Rating: 4.0 / 5.0 (127 ratings)

Dictionary for Beginners and Advanced with Examples & Appendices – This never-before-seen tax dictionary is the 1st of its kind and is specifically designed to help beginners understand everything about taxes. Difficult subject knowledge is simply brought to the point here. It gives you a (relatively) easy entry into the complex world of taxes with the help of good explanations and practical examples.

• You want to finally know and understand how the tax system works in real life?
• When searching for helpful information, do you come across thousands of technical terms that confuse you?
• When you look up a technical term (online or dictionary) are there umpteen technical terms in the definition again that you don’t understand?
• Even if you understand the definition, you don’t know what the point is for you?
• Things are described with no “hands on” example?
• Buy at Amazon

Investing intelligently in real estate: the quick-start guide

Rating: 4.7 / 5.0 (122 ratings)

In his book “Intelligent Investing in Real Estate”, the author provides you with insider knowledge directly from practice, which you can use to secure your future – even if you think you can’t manage it with your own savings:

• Don’t be afraid of unfamiliar territory: this book gives you a basic course that allows you to invest in real estate almost risk-free. in real estate.
• The advantages and disadvantages of real estate as an investment are explained to you comprehensively and honestly – especially the prospects for returns.
• How can you finance real estate? Discover concepts and investment strategies to invest in real estate even without equity.
• To avoid any unpleasant surprises, here’s how to proceed with your tax return.
• Get a detailed plan on how to choose properties that really make you money and develop a nose for the right location.
• What alternative investments are there? Get and develop your personal investment portfolio with this book.
• Buy at Amazon

Real estate as an investment

Rating: 4.9 / 5.0 (104 ratings)

Real estate is worthwhile if you go about it the right way. Here you can find out what to look out for, what to avoid and how to proceed. As a bonus, there is also a calculation tool that you can use to estimate the development of the value of your property.

You’ll find out with this book:

• What opportunities there are to invest in real estate
• What are the advantages and disadvantages associated with each option
• What you need to look out for in a plant
• What is important when buying a property
• What is important for holding a property
• How it looks with your own contribution to the value maintenance or reorganization
• What taxes you have to pay
• Why investing pays off despite Corona
• How to get income from real estate
• How to build your wealth with real estate
• Buy at Amazon

Guide to investment strategy, tax strategy & choice of legal form

Rating: 4.7 / 5.0 (76 ratings)

Many people from the middle class only fail to make it to millionaire status because they lack the crucial information to reduce their tax burden and build up wealth through smart investments. This is especially true for highly skilled workers and smaller middle-class entrepreneurs. To achieve financial freedom and economic independence, building a larger fortune is essential. In addition three crucial building sites are to be taken into the view. This guidebook provides the crucial knowledge for a sophisticated investment and tax strategy that can be implemented by anyone and paves the way to financial freedom and independence.

• Increase in revenue
• Intelligent investment of capital to generate passive income
• Limitation of the tax burden
• Buy at Amazon

The real estate guide: Capital investment real estate

Rating: 4.6 / 5.0 ( 60 Reviews)

What you will benefit from reading this real estate book:

• The author explains how to finance investment properties with and without equity capital
• Learn where to find investment properties in A & B locations
• The biggest mistakes when buying real estate are revealed to you so you can avoid them from the start
• You get strategies that make worry-free investing possible
• You will be shown the best tips for saving taxes with the purchase of real estate and much more!
• Buy at Amazon

The Real Estate Investors Network

Rating: 4.5 / 5.0 (24 ratings)

Real estate investments always have to do with people. The development and maintenance of a suitable network are therefore essential building blocks for success. The individual network partners that are crucial for your success as a real estate investor are highlighted in a practical manner. Including the real estate strategies of 14 remarkable real estate investors, with all the ups and downs, the personal real estate strategies and tips from practice!

• Investing in small apartments
• Investing in garages
• Fix and flip in perfection
• Buy, renovate, upgrade
• The first property at the age of 18
• Creative real estate upgrades
• Purchase of over 60 apartments in 2 years
• Legal pitfalls in the real estate purchase contract
• Buy at Amazon

Real Estate Fix & Flip

Rating: 4.5 / 5.0 stars (20 reviews)

In this book, you’ll get step-by-step instructions and the know-how you need to build a profitable real estate business as a full-time or part-time fix & flip investor.

Learn here:

• All about taxes and additional costs at the Fix & Flip
• How to get credit for a fix & flip
• What kind of real estate you should buy
• Where to find the right real estate
• How to get off-market deals
• How you generate tons of leads
• How to calculate, plan and carry out a major refurbishment project
• How to build your Fix & Flip team
• How to sell the property quickly and at the highest price
• Buy at Amazon

Related links about the topic Real estate

We’ve compiled other helpful video and book lists on taxes and real estate that may interest you and help you become a true real estate professional. Below you’ll find links to sample topics.

Tax return: instructions, tips & guides for students, pensioners, professionals

Why, why, why are tax returns so important? Not only professionals, but also students or pensioners can benefit from a tax return. If you have never deducted anything from your taxes and have no previous knowledge, you can get super informed in our tax return guide. We show you tips and tricks on how to avoid mistakes and provide you with tutorials that will help you with your first or next tax return. If you want to know even more, then we have a great article on the tax basics: income, sales & Co.

• Video tips on the subject of tax returns
• Book recommendations on the subject of tax returns

Real estate agent

Earning money with real estate is a lifelong dream for many. Marketing and selling luxurious homes in the most beautiful cities in the world. That’s the image that comes to mind when we think of real estate agents. We want to make the journey easier for you and give you a jump start. We offer you a list of the best book recommendations with tips and tricks from the experts: everything from training books, to job aids with forms, to guides with how-to’s on getting started in real estate. Our guides will lead you to success in the real estate industry

• Real estate agent: Book recommendation
• Real estate agent: video tips

Overview real estate XXL: Investment, broker, renting & Co.

Here you get back to the overview of book and video recommendations on the subject of real estate in Germany. Investment cases, capital investment, passive income, house or apartment buy and rent and much more is explained to you here by experts and understandable. In this XXL guide you will find information and articles on the most diverse questions on the subject of real estate.

• Back to Book & Video Tips Overview: Real Estate

House, condominium & Co: Selling real estate

The process of selling real estate depends strongly on the type of property. Depending on this, different steps and documents are necessary. In general, when selling real estate, you should always first consider whether or not you want to hire a real estate agent. Also increase and decrease in value factors should be kept in mind.

Buy and sell (external & free of charge)

Learn from the experts. You can find many, many more guide articles for free at Lukinski. Here you can learn everything you need to know about buying real estate for free. Start in general with buying real estate, go over your specific type of real estate, from apartment, to house, apartment building to buying land. Also important, everything about the purchase contract (who pays the costs?), ancillary purchase costs and saving taxes with real estate. through legal forms such as a real estate GmbH or family foundation.

However, Luxury Realtors also write new articles on selling property every week. With more specific advice pages on selling a house, selling an apartment, and multi-family house and land.

Valuation, declaration of division & important documents

Apartments are particularly popular with people starting out in their careers and young couples. They are inexpensive, also allow living in the inner city and often provide the perfect basis for the first home of one’s own. But not all apartments are the same. Whereas in big cities like Berlin and Hamburg it is mainly apartments on one floor that are in demand, fresh air lovers tend to prefer a terrace apartment. High warehouse and industrial spaces of the past are increasingly being converted into loft apartments of the modern age and are enjoying high demand due to their high walls and spacious floor plans.

The two-storey maisonette apartment and the exclusive penthouse on the top floor represent the top class of the apartments here.

Valuing an apartment: increase & decrease in value factors

One of the most important questions you have to deal with as a seller is: How much is my home actually worth? There are several factors that ultimately influence the value of your property. For a rough sales value, it is first worth taking a look at:

• Location of the apartment
• Infrastructure
• Equipment

The geographical location of the apartment, i.e. the immediate residential area, can mean an increase in value for you here and, from experience, always proves to be a good sales argument. The better the location of the apartment, the more expensive it is in terms of value. The same applies to the connection to public transport and the proximity to hospitals, cultural sites & Co.

The closer you are to public life, the more these factors add value.

In addition to such soft and hard factors that influence the value, the crime rate in the residential area is also important. Again, the principle applies. The safer, the better. However, the crime rate is not just a number, but also the feeling of safety. Thus, this factor can be defined as a ‘mixed factor’ in housing valuation.

Renovations and modernizations in particular are value-enhancing:

Calculate purchase price: Criteria for determining the value

Now that you know roughly which factors influence the housing valuation, let’s go into a little more detail. In the second step, you must now look at the other criteria in determining your property value:

1. Year of manufacture
2. Living floor
3. Number and size of rooms
4. Balcony, terrace and winter gardens
5. Common property

Due to the inferior building fabric at the time, owners of apartments from the 1960s and 70s must unfortunately reckon with a price discount today. However, those who own a refurbished old apartment (built before 1945) or a modern new-build apartment can rather look forward to an increased construction value.

Lofts and penthouses also sell more quickly than ground floor apartments due to their popularity. For these, there is often a reduction in sales value of up to 30%. Converted attics and lifts to the top floor are also considered to increase value.

-30% for ground floor apartments

In addition to the size and number of rooms, extras such as balconies, terraces and conservatories are also decisive in determining the value. Depending on the design and the number of square metres, these can be taken into account as additional living space. Common property in the form of well-maintained outdoor facilities, staircases and lifts can also have a positive effect on the sales value as part of a community of owners.

• Read more: Sell apartment

The most expensive cities for condominium in Germany – Ranking

Whether you’re selling your home or looking for a condo as a buyer. It’s always good to be familiar with the current real estate market across Germany. This chart gives you an overview of the cities in Germany with the most expensive condos.

Documents for housing valuation

The following documents are important for determining the exact value of your home:

1. Land register excerpt
2. Declaration of division
3. Floor plan
4. Minutes of the owners’ meeting
5. Housing allowance statement for the last three years
6. Overview of the maintenance reserve
7. Proof of insurance
8. Energy certificate
9. If applicable, a copy of the rental contract, if your apartment is rented out.

House & apartment forms at a glance: List

In the real estate market, there are a lot of different types of construction. Both in the field of apartment and houses, there are many forms and types according to which a property is designed. These are divided into different formats. We have clearly listed some of the most common house and apartment types for you here. You can find more information about the respective property type in the corresponding article by clicking on the corresponding link.

House types at a glance: From bungalow to prefabricated house

Here you will find a list with an overview of all common house types. The linked article provides you with more information about the respective house form, introduces you to peculiarities and definitions and you also learn which house type is suitable for whom and why. In addition, we introduce you to the advantages and disadvantages of the respective house form in the associated articles.

• Bungalow
• Semi-detached house
• Single-family house
• Half-timbered house
• Holiday home / weekend house
• Beach house
• Prefabricated house
• Country house
• Massive house
• Terraced house
• Villa
• Low-energy house
• Zero-energy house
• Passive House

Overview of apartment types: Old building apartment to basement

The housing market is highly competitive and there are many different types of housing that come with certain characteristics. In the corresponding articles you will find definitions and information about the respective type of apartment, as well as a list of potential advantages and disadvantages of the corresponding apartment.

• Old apartment
• Apartment
• Attic apartment
• Granny flat
• Apartment
• Loft
• Maisonette apartment
• Penthouse
• Basement apartment
• Terrace apartment

Selling a house: taxes, costs & selling process

Single-family homes are among the preferred properties of Germans in almost all federal states. As the name suggests, they are occupied by a family, a couple or a single person. Single-family homes come in all shapes, colours and types – from the modern city villa to the romantic solid house with garden to the environmentally friendly efficiency house.

Off Market Deals: Selling luxury real estate thanks to independent acquisition

If your property is in the higher price ranges, then it’s worth thinking about selling it off market. Off market means that the sale does not take place publicly, but is sold internally. Public figures in particular, such as celebrities, politicians and many an aristocrat, prefer this type of acquisition. Whether you want to sell your house with or without an agent is up to you. The only important thing here is a good network. Ideally, you should use a broker who also specializes in off-market and thus has a large network of potential buyers.

Selling a house without an estate agent: Ultimate checklist

Many start out thinking that they need to rely on a realtor for their home sale. However, this is not always the case. Even alone, it is quite possible to successfuly sell his house and also brings some advantages with it. So that you can estimate but already times, what comes with a brokerless acquisition on you, here is already times an overview for you:

1. Determination of the sales price by valuation
2. Exposé – or advertisement creation
3. Compilation of necessary documents
4. Development of a sales strategy
5. Contacting interested parties
6. Organisation and realisation of the viewing appointments
7. Drafting of the sales contract
8. Perception of the notary appointment

House valuation: market value, net asset value & Co.

The house valuation is ultimately used to calculate the purchase price. Of course, before you take the next steps to sell your property, you need to set this price. Several factors play a big role in your property valuation. These include, for example, micro and macro facilities, background noise, location and outlook.

In this context, there is also talk of a market value and a net asset value of your house, which is included in the house valuation. The former is the price that is calculated at several points in time by various criteria, while the net asset value is influenced by the production costs of the property and the standard land value.

Keep an eye on ancillary purchase costs: Inheritance tax & notary fees

Often incidental purchase costs are also incurred when selling a house. These are usually borne by the buyer. While the transfer in the land register and the notary fees are paid by both parties, in the event of an inheritance, inheritance tax is also due. This depends, among other things, on the individual tax-free amount. Don’t forget that these regulations differ from state to state.

Whereas in Schleswig-Holstein these additional costs can amount to up to 15% of the sales price, in Bavaria they are only around 10%.

Another tip: If there is still an unpaid loan on the house, it is worth negotiating with the buyer about a loan assumption. Here it is worthwhile to get the opinion of an expert again.

Also bear in mind that for owner-occupied property there is a two-year period during which you do not have to pay tax on the profit from the sale. This means that there must be at least two years between the notarisation dates for the purchase and sale.

The most important documents & contracts at a glance

Your decision to sell your house has been made. The checklist for the house purchase is ready and you have also already determined the selling price. Now you just have to put together all the important documents.

1. Floor plans
2. Site plan
3. Land register excerpt
4. Fire Insurance Certificate
5. Overview of additional costs
6. Listing of all renovation work
7. Photos
8. Current energy certificate
9. The indication of the living space
10. Any existing leases
11. If there is more than one owner, indication of the ownership structure
12. A detailed object description

Attention with existing leases

If your house, or at least part of it, is rented out, you need to factor that into the sale. You can still sell your property, but you must be able to justify this. Even if renovation or demolition work is the reason for selling the house, this must be explained to the tenant.

• You can find out more under Selling a House

Ultimate price comparison: This is how much a house costs in German cities – Statistics

The prices for apartments, houses & Co. vary considerably in the Federal Republic of Germany. Here are some general statistics on the purchase prices of detached single-family homes. Purchase prices in Bremen, Rostock, Erfurt and Leipzig tend to be lower. Cities such as Cologne, Berlin and Hamburg are in the midfield in terms of price. At the top of the most expensive purchase prices here is the Bavarian capital Munich.

Apartment building: rental agreements, sales price & Co.

Since the sale of an apartment building is still a house sale, the process here is similar. However, since there are multiple parties involved, there are a few extra steps. You’ll need to keep these in mind when planning the sale process, of course. As always, ideally you will already have a follow-on property in mind and have already thought about the selling price of your apartment building.

Questions to ask yourself: tenant, prepayment penalty & right of first refusal.

Here’s an overview of the most important things you need to think about ahead of time to avoid any nasty surprises when you sell.

1. Do you have a follow-on property lined up?
2. Is there a need for renovation / refurbishment of the house?
3. Do you have all the necessary documents, such as declaration of partition, building insurance, minutes of the owners’ meeting, utility bills, list of rents, etc.?
4. Are early repayment penalties payable?
5. Do you have an overview of the maintenance costs?
6. Are you planning to sell inventory with it?
7. Is there a right of first refusal?
8. What’s your take on home valuation?

Valuation of a multi-family house: procedure & costs

The subject is complex. Micro and macro factors naturally play an important role in determining the sales price. Of course, this also includes the location, comparable properties, building fabric, etc. The method used to determine the value depends on the type of property. In general, however, the following rule applies: a purchase price must always be well-founded, market-oriented and realistic. There are a total of five procedures for this:

1. Comparative value method
2. Capitalised earnings method
3. Real value method
4. Residual procedure
5. Determination of the mortgage lending value

Of course, the price is not calculated directly down to the last cent. The final purchase price will follow at a later date and is based primarily on the estimated value of your house. In principle, you can remember that the valuation of a property under 150,000 euros will cost about 1,500 euros. If your property is valued at over 1 million euros, it will eventually cost 3,000 euros.

For the calculation, a rough valuation is carried out first. The price for the final valuation is therefore based, in most cases, on the estimated value of the property to be valued.

Material value and market value influence the sales price

The valuation and the final sales price can differ, as already explained. For the final price determination, not only the asset value is decisive, but also the market value. The asset value tells you what the objective value of your house is, in terms of year of construction, equipment, building fabric, etc. The market value (often referred to as the fair market value) is the value of the property. The market value (often also called fair market value) is the one to which the sales price is related. Factors relevant to the environment and factors specific to the market are related here. When demand is high and offers are low, the market value is now usually higher than the asset value.

Tip: Renovations and modernizations increase value

Especially when selling an apartment building, it is also worth considering renovations and modernizations. These always have a value-increasing effect. For example, damp patches on the walls and mould should now be removed. Damaged parquet and old window frames also make a significant difference. Always make sure that any damage is repaired. Otherwise, in the worst case, a sale can also be reversed due to cover-up.

If you also want to sell your indoor and outdoor furniture, this is also a value increasing factor:

Documents for the determination of the market value

So that you know which documents are important here in the determination of the market value, we have an overview for you:

• Land register excerpt
• Construction plans, floor plans, sections
• Building specification
• Site plan and cadastral map
• Living space calculation
• Energy certificate

In the case of condominium ownership, you will also need the following documents:

• Minutes of the last three owners’ meetings
• Business plan
• Declaration of division (land register)
• Housing benefit statement

If necessary, you also need for income properties:

• Operating costs
• Rent statements
• Rental agreements

To be seen with rights and encumbrances:

• Notarial deeds
• Special entries (rights of way, residential rights, etc.)

Property prices in the most popular cities in Germany

To choose one’s place of residence freely – that is what many people wish for. But where to then is the question? The individual states and cities of the Federal Republic all bring their own charm and advantages with them. Ideally, you want to be able to find a job quickly, the property should be in the budget and a stable infrastructure is also very close to the hearts of most people. To help you decide on your next home, we have city maps and square meter prices for Berlin, Hamburg and Munich for you.

Berlin: German capital popular with investors

As the capital of the Federal Republic of Germany, it is the hub of European politics. The seat of government can be found here, as well as a multitude of historical monuments. The job market has also been stable for years: there is hardly any other European city where so many start-ups are founded as in Berlin. Different cultures, religions and influences come together here and thus make up the Berlin flair. Another plus:

Berlin enjoys ever-increasing popularity with real estate investors

City map: Pankow, Lichtenberg, Marzahn & Co.

The German capital Berlin consists of 12 boroughs and 96 districts. Moreover, the city offers a lot of variety due to its rich history and role as the capital of the Federal Republic of Germany and is popular not only with non-European tourists, but also with the younger generation.

Prices per square metre: From Hellersdorf to Berlin Mitte

You can expect to pay just under €2,100 per square metre in the Hellersdorf district of Berlin. The most expensive areas, on the other hand, are in Berlin Mitte and Dahlem. Here is the overview:

• Hellersdorf: 2,100 euros per square metre
• Hohenschönhausen, Reinickendorf, Spandau, Tempelhof & Marzahn: 2,500 – 3,000 euros per square metre
• Berlin Mitte and Dahlem: 6,000 euros per square metre

Here you can see the real estate prices for Berlin in the development from 2005 to 2020.

Hamburg: Hanseatic city attracts young people in particular

While Berlin counts as a hub of politics, Hamburg occupies an important economic position for Germany. The Speicherstadt is well connected with other European countries, which is also reflected in the diverse range of gastronomy. Eta 110,000 new citizens have called the Elbe metropolis their new home since last year. Due to the economic situation of the Hanseatic city and the exclusive residential areas, high earners and investors are also regularly attracted here.

City map: Altona, Bergedorf, Wandsbek & Co.

Hamburg consists of seven districts or neighborhoods:

• Altona
• Bergedorf
• Middle
• Harburg
• Eimsbüttel
• North
• Wandsbek

From romantic villas on the Elbe to modern apartments in the city center, Hamburg leaves nothing to be desired and offers something for everyone. No wonder that the Hanseatic city is becoming increasingly popular, especially among students and young professionals. Here you can see a rough overview of the city:

Prices per square metre: Condominiums on the Alster are gaining in value

South of the Elbe you will find rather reasonable prices (approx. 2,500 euros per square metre), whereas top prices starting at 7,500 euros per square metre can be found mainly on the Alster and in the luxurious areas of the Elbe.

Here you can see the real estate prices for Hamburg in the development from 2008 to 2020.

Munich: Highest billionaire density in the Federal Republic of Germany

Due to the quality of life in the Bavarian capital, Munich is also on the list of Germany’s top cities. The traditional architecture, combined with the metropolitan flair and the typical Bavarian coziness enjoys great popularity, especially among Germany’s billionaires and global entrepreneurs.

City map: Small districts with a high quality of life

Munich consists of 29 districts and 25 boroughs. The three most popular districts of the Bavarian capital are characterised above all by their high quality of life and are therefore the most popular with apartment hunters:

• Neuhausen-Nymphenburg
• Trudering-Riem
• Schwabing West

Here’s the map again:

Prices per square metre: Munich is the most expensive city in Germany

Munich is known to be home to the largest number of billionaires in the Federal Republic. So it’s not surprising that the purchase price of a single Munich condominium is twice as expensive as anywhere else.

Here you can see the real estate prices for Munich in comparison to the real estate prices in the whole of Germany.

Tax structuring when selling real estate: owner-occupation & state subsidies

How to save taxes when selling real estate? The problem: Many owners fall into the tax trap here and pay money unnecessarily. The solution: tax structuring. Real estate investor and tax coach Alex Fischer regularly gives tips for sellers on YouTube as well as on his blog.

Tip: Costs of the real estate agent tax deductible

In parts, this is also possible. Anyone who buys a new property after selling it can now deduct the brokerage costs for tax purposes. But only if the house or apartment is subsequently rented out. In the case of owner-occupancy, the linear deduction of the fees is unfortunately not possible.

Also deductible: brokerage fees incurred in finding a tenant.

Taxes & real estate: from basics to savings tips

Whenever money is involved, taxes inevitably come into play at some point. Of course, this is also the case in the real estate business: countless taxes such as sales tax, trade tax, acquisition tax, property tax or inheritance tax are incurred. It is not easy to keep an overview. Our list of book recommendations should help you answer your open questions and provide you with the necessary knowledge, with which you will soon be a professional in the field of real estate taxes.

Before we come to the book recommendations for real estate taxes, here are 3 tips on the subject: Learn for free on Lukinski, from the tax 1×1, to special real estate taxes such as land transfer tax, property tax & Co. learn for free, as well as video recommendations and for those who want to become a real estate investor, still a look at the topic of tax coaching. Because the more money you earn by renting out houses and condominiums, the more taxes you pay. The more knowledge you build up about renting and taxes, the more equity you have for future investments as a landlord and real estate investor.

Tax 1×1 for real estate (free of charge, external)

If you are looking for tips online, we can also recommend Lukinski.de. Here you will find everything from getting started in real estate to real estate as an investment through renting to saving taxes with real estate (external). All free of charge.

Tip! Overview Taxes XXL

Taxes are often a vexing topic, especially in Germany. Wage tax, value added tax, real estate transfer tax and much more: it is not easy to keep track of everything. But if you’re not interested in employing a tax consultant, who can be quite expensive, you need to get to grips with the subject of taxes. We want to help you with that! Here you will find an overview of guides as well as book and video tips on the subject of taxes. Whether we introduce you to individual types of German taxes or you watch a video on the subject of tax returns, all your questions about German taxes will be answered here.

• Book & Video Tips Overview: Taxes

Tax optimization: Experiences from Tax Coaching

If you write about real estate, you have to educate yourself. More concretely, when it is no longer just about personal use, but also about renting. Because, the biggest item on the expense side is taxes. The more you earn, the more taxes you have to pay – the problem is clearly defined, what to do? Learn from experience, from those who have made it. Many say that the Next Level Tax Coaching is the best in Germany. Reason enough to take part yourself. You want to become a real estate investor yourself?

Read more about tax coaching here:

• Tax optimization: Coaching

Find a tax consultant: near you

Are you still looking for the right tax advisor in your area? Then take a look at our lists: We have compiled the best-rated tax consultants for you for almost every city in Germany, where you should always receive good advice. You can find more information about tax advisors in your area here.

Fundamentals of the real estate industry

Rating: 4.4 / 5.0 (33 ratings)

This renowned basic textbook provides a clear introduction to the entire life cycle of real estate. It provides students and teachers with the economic, legal and tax knowledge necessary for this rapidly expanding field. It is also ideally suited as a reference work for lecturers as well as for specialists and managers in real estate companies.

• Extensive changes in building law
• Construction Contract Reform Act
• Amendment of the liability for defects under commercial law
• Regulations from the Act on the Modernisation of the Law on Environmental Impact Assessment
• Concept of orientation on the life cycle of the property
• Marketing, financing, portfolio management and project development
• Buy at Amazon

Tax guide for real estate investors

Rating: 4.3 / 5.0 (233 ratings)

Alexander Goldwein’s trademark is to explain complex topics simply. This gives even readers without prior knowledge the chance to understand the interrelationships and to use this knowledge for their own benefit. The book contains numerous practical examples and up-to-date references to case law and letters from the Federal Ministry of Finance. It is suitable for both beginners and advanced readers.

• Maximum recognition of income-related expenses
• Realization of tax-free capital gains
• Tax advantages for listed properties
• Holiday real estate at home and abroad as an investment property
• Inheritance and gift tax (tax-optimised transfer to spouse & children)
• Bonus material: Excel tool for calculating return, financing costs and cash flow
• The ultimate tax guide for private investments in residential real estate
• Buy at Amazon

Never pay taxes again as a real estate investor

Rating: 3.7 / 5.0 (15 ratings)

How not to pay taxes for your good real estate portfolio, this book explains to you with real practical examples:

• Theory explained
• Refurbishment and maintenance of real estate
• Credit financing for real estate
• The combination of financing and refurbishment
• Strategic planning of reorganizations for tax optimization
• 15% rule for acquisition-related production costs
• Practical example 1 – The first apartment tax-free
• Practical example 2 – The existing portfolio tax-free
• Practical example 3 – Re-borrowing to save tax
• Practical example 4 – New MFH with a broken flat
• Final thoughts
• Includes real-life examples and real numbers from my properties and my tax return.
• Buy at Amazon

Giving away & bequeathing real estate in a tax-optimised manner

Rating: 4.6 / 5.0 (63 ratings)

The basics and structuring options are presented systematically and understandably in this book. The reading requires no prior knowledge and is also suitable for legal laypersons:

• Presentation of the legal succession with the consequences for the inheritance tax burden
• Optimal drafting of a will for the transfer of real estate to children and grandchildren
• Gifts of real estate during lifetime as a means of reducing the tax burden
• Protection of the donor of real estate through usufruct, right in rem and life annuity
• Succession by will regulate & save taxes with allowances & gifts of houses & condominiums
• Annex with sample texts for the implementation of the strategies
• Buy at Amazon

Tax lexicon of the basics

Rating: 4.0 / 5.0 (124 ratings)

In this tax lexicon of basics, difficult technical knowledge is simply brought to the point by Alex Fischer. With the help of good explanations and practical examples, it gives you a (relatively) easy introduction to the complex world of taxes:

• You want to finally know and understand how the tax system works in real life?
• When searching for helpful information you come across thousands of technical terms that confuse you?
• If you look up a technical term (online or encyclopedia) are in the definition again umpteen technical terms that you do not understand?
• Even if you understand the definition, you don’t know what the point is for you?
• Things are described with no “hands on” example?
• For beginners and advanced learners who want to know more about the tax system
• For people who finally want to have a clear view when it comes to taxes
• For people who have the goal to optimize their personal finances and tax arrangements
• Bonus: Workbook
• Most important technical terms simply explained
• Buy at Amazon

Save taxes for real estate owners

Rating: 4.1 / 5.0 (8 ratings)

This book covers these topics and much more:

• Construction and purchase of real estate, tax incentives for home ownership
• Management of owner-occupied and rented real estate, taxation of rentals
• Sales and taxes on the disposal of real estate
• Inheritance and inheritance tax
• With detailed index
• Buy at Amazon

Tax guide for landlords

Rating: 4.2 / 5.0 (29 ratings)

How you can save taxes as a real estate investor with the right tax strategy – Would you like a good overview of the tax regulations and structuring options available to you in the context of a private real estate investment?
This guide provides you with the necessary knowledge – comprehensibly prepared and immediately applicable in practice:

• Complete tax strategy from A to Z
• Complete tax guide for long-term real estate investments
• Income Tax & Value Added Tax
• Determination of personal income tax rate
• “small 1×1 of the expenditures with renting and leasing”
• Numerous examples and suggestions for implementation
• Buy at Amazon

The tax of the real estate – made easy

Rating: 4.2 / 5.0 (10 ratings)

Real Estate and Taxes? In this book, an experienced tax advisor solves the tax issues from owning a home to managing large properties:

• Acquisition, construction, modernisation
• Income, renting, sale, trade
• Value added tax, trade tax, acquisition tax, property tax, inheritance tax
• Textbook for house and land ownership
• Indispensable for all learners in the real estate industry, also a handbook for interested and committed people
• Plus: 25 overviews and 45 guiding principles
• Buy at Amazon

Tax knowledge 2 go: Crash course

Rating: 4.4 / 5.0 (111 ratings)

In this guide for small businesses and freelancers, you’ll learn how to keep your money with you as a self-employed person and not give it away to taxes:

• Income statement
• Value added tax (including small business regulation)
• Trade tax
• Income tax
• Deduct business expenses from tax
• Understandable, practical and compact
• Buy at Amazon

Master Course Real Estate Investments

Rating: 3.7 / 5.0 (10 reviews)

Rent out real estate successfuly and save taxes: In this part of the book series, you will receive an understandable introduction to the tax law that is of practical relevance to landlords. In addition, you will receive a practice-oriented introduction to the basics of tenancy law, including the possibilities for rent increases.

In addition, the book series includes the following other parts:

• Strategy to get rich with real estate
• Search, check and buy real estate professionally
• Financing and calculating real estate correctly
• Concluding real estate purchase and construction contracts with legal certainty
• Buy at Amazon

Related Links about the topic Real Estate & Taxes

Real estate is an interesting topic for you and you would like to learn more about it? In our lists of recommended books and videos on the topics of real estate and taxes you will find a lot of interesting information. Experts reveal their tips and tricks and prepare you optimally for the topic of real estate. Topics such as real estate financing, finding the right real estate agent, buying a house or even topics such as tax basics are covered. Learn a lot of new things here!

Entry into the real estate industry

Real Estate for Beginners – Want to get started in the real estate industry? Here you will find tips and important know-how on how to become successful in the real estate world. How do you get started in the real estate business, what mistakes and risks are there and how can you avoid them? We enlighten you! Here you will find the best books that explain how you can become rich with real estate. Real estate, renting, taxes – learn all that here.

• Book tips for getting started in the real estate industry
• Real Estate Entry Videos

Build property

To build or to buy a house? This question is on the minds of many prospective buyers. Here we show you the advantages and disadvantages of both options and offer interesting tips on financing. Both options have their advantages. A new building has the great advantage that you can determine the layout of the rooms according to your wishes. With an existing property, you don’t have to deal with the complicated construction phases and you can live in your own home much more quickly. Here you will find videos that will help you to finance your dream home and show you what you should pay attention to.

• Video tips on the subject of building real estate
• Building Real Estate: Book Recommendations

Taxes Basics

Preparing a tax return: Do you know how? What are taxes and what are they used for? Here you’ll learn everything about taxes – from the basics, to the different types of taxes, to how to file a tax return. We’ll introduce you to the best books on taxes, including reader reviews, recommendations & experiences!

• Basics Taxes Book Tips
• Video tips on tax basics

Back to overview Taxes XXL: Tax return, tips & more

Here you can return to the overview of book and video recommendations on the subject of taxes in Germany. Tax forms, tax rates, tax returns and much more will be explained to you by experts and made understandable. In this XXL guide you will find information and articles on the most diverse questions on the subject of taxes.

• Book & Video Tips Overview: Taxes

Entry into real estate investment

Investing in real estate – whether a house or apartment, penthouse, apartment, maisonette, villa, terraced house or bungalow – always seems to be a good investment at first glance, but in order to actually make a profit and at best generate passive income, you need some know-how. Before all, you need to know which mistakes you should avoid at all costs. In our video list on the subject of real estate investment, you will learn exactly this necessary know-how and you will be explained what mistakes ignorant investors often make, to do it better yourself. Get inspired and become a professional investor!

Before we get to the video recommendations for real estate investing, here are 3 tips on the topic: Learn for free on Lukinski, we have book recommendations and for those who want to become a real estate investor, another look at the topic of taxes, because the more money you make, the more taxes you pay. The more knowledge you build up here, the less taxes you pay and the more equity you have, for your investments.

Buy, finance and invest (external & free of charge)

Online you can find a lot of articles and tips on Lukinski.de. Here you can learn everything: from tax basics for asset accumulation, to real estate as an investment through renting, to saving taxes with real estate (external). Everything free of charge from the expert.

Tip! Overview Real Estate XXL

The world of real estate is complex and multifaceted. If you want to keep an overview and avoid making mistakes, you should prepare well and clarify as many open questions as possible in good time. No matter whether you want to build, buy and rent out a property or live in it yourself, or even use a property as an investment to generate passive income: The preparation is the A&O. Here you will find articles, as well as book and video tips with successful and helpful books and videos on the subject of real estate – including tips and tricks from professionals and experts.

• Book & Video Tips Overview: Real Estate

Tax Coaching for Landlords / Investors: Field Report

If you write about real estate, you have to educate yourself. More concretely, when it is no longer just about personal use, but also about renting. Because, the biggest item on the expense side is taxes. The more you earn, the more taxes you have to pay – the problem is clearly defined, what to do? Learn from experience, from those who have made it. Many say that the Next Level Tax Coaching is the best in Germany. Reason enough to take part yourself. You want to become a real estate investor yourself?

Read more about tax coaching here:

• Coaching in tax optimization

Entry as a real estate investor

All beginnings are difficult – especially with such a capital-intensive topic as the purchase of a property. There are many factors to consider. Whether it’s about financing, the most common mistakes or the question of whether renting is even worth it: In these videos, you’ll get answers to the most common questions about real estate as an investment.

Start in the first property

Here you can find out how to get started with the best tips for owning your first property. What is the best way to start, and with what – apartment or house? When can you expect profits and how does a house purchase work? Two professionals tell you about their first steps as real estate investors.

7 ways to invest in real estate

In this video, you’ll learn the 7 best ways to invest in real estate:

1. Home
2. Rental properties
3. Closed-end real estate funds
4. Open-ended real estate funds
5. Real estate shares / REITs
6. Real estate equity funds (active)
7. Real estate equity funds (passive)

Buy first apartment

How do you actually get started? How do you buy your first home? In this video, a professional investor explains how to get started in the world of real estate investing.

Let property

You have a property and are thinking about whether renting it out is really worth it? Of course, as an investor, you want to make a profit in the end. How to do that and when renting out a property is really worthwhile, you will learn in the following videos.

Is it worth renting?

Interest rates at record lows, high property prices: Isn’t it worth buying a rented property as an investment? This video will show you whether the calculation “the tenant pays off the installments to the bank” works. How you can best rent out your property and how it can function as a real investment is explained here for you.

Rent or buy ETFs?

What’s more worthwhile: buying a property and then renting it out – or using the money to buy ETFs? In this video, we’ll run through 6 scenarios for you to decide which investment strategy works best for you.

Errors and tips

Mistakes can always be made, but especially when it comes to real estate investment, these mistakes can be costly. To avoid this, the most common mistakes in real estate investment are shown here. With these tips, hopefully you will no longer fall into an expensive investment trap.

Avoiding mistakes when buying real estate

Alex Fischer explains in this video what you have to pay attention to when financing real estate, the location, size and type of the apartment and which rules you should absolutely follow for owner-occupied real estate as well as for capital investment. Don’t make the same mistakes as other investors and save time and money with these tips for your next real estate investment.

9 typical mistakes

Making mistakes when buying real estate can have serious consequences. What to look for when buying real estate is therefore a central question that you should ask yourself when buying real estate as an investment. How you can avoid mistakes when buying real estate is shown in this video. For example, it is about the choice of location, the calculation or the rental model.

Financing: Save on credit, repayment and taxes

A property is often an immense investment. Very few people can finance this out of their own pocket. But which type of financing is the best and most efficient for you, your situation and your property? And should you have taken out a loan or credit, what is the best way to organise repayment? Is there possibly even a way to save taxes in the process? These questions are adressed in detail in the following videos.

Real estate as an investment

Real estate as an investment – sounds easy, but unfortunately it’s not that simple. What advantages a property as an investment can have, however, if you do it right and know your way around, you will learn in this video.

Save taxes

With the right knowledge, you can save a lot of taxes with your real estate. Watch the video to learn what expenses can be deducted on your tax return, so you can use your strategy to grow your investment and ideally reinvest the money you save.

Repayment: which rate is optimal?

The real estate loan or real estate financing has a huge impact on whether a property works as an investment or a home works as an investment. Financing a property is therefore something you should definitely understand before buying. One important question to ask is how much to amortize or what is the optimal amount of amortization. In this video you get exactly the right answer.

Related links about the topic Real estate

Are you wondering how to buy, sell, rent or finance a property? What exactly does a real estate agent do? If you’re looking for answers to these questions, check out our advanced book lists with recommendations and reader reviews on real estate!

Tax return: instructions, tips & guides for students, pensioners, professionals

Why, why, why are tax returns so important? Not only professionals, but also students or pensioners can benefit from a tax return. If you have never deducted anything from your taxes and have no previous knowledge, you can get super informed in our tax return guide. We show you tips and tricks on how to avoid mistakes and provide you with tutorials that will help you with your first or next tax return. If you want to know even more, then we have a great article on the tax basics: income, sales & Co.

• Video tips on the subject of tax returns
• Book recommendations on the subject of tax returns

Real estate agent

Earning money with real estate is a lifelong dream for many. Marketing and selling luxurious homes in the most beautiful cities in the world. That’s the image that comes to mind when we think of real estate agents. We want to show you the way to get there and give you a jump start. We offer you a list of the best book recommendations with tips and tricks from the experts: everything from training books, job aids with forms, and guides with how-to’s on getting started in real estate. Our guides to success in the real estate industry

• Real estate agent: Book recommendation
• Real estate agent: video tips

Overview Real Estate XXL: Investment & Co.

Here you get back to the overview of book and video recommendations on the subject of real estate in Germany. Investment cases, capital investment, passive income, house or apartment buy and rent and much more is explained to you here by experts and understandable. In this XXL guide you will find information and articles on the most diverse questions on the subject of real estate.

• Back to Book & Video Tips Overview: Real Estate

Buy and let property – the right way to do it

Finding a good property involves a lot of research and proper preparation. A tutorial in this subject is therefore necessary to find a lucrative real estate. Once you have found the ideal apartment or house, you move on to finding tenants. As a landlord, you need to be aware of rental rates and know all the basics of landlord-tenant law. How to rent out your property for profit and not fall into traps of the real estate business is an art of its own, which we want to teach you with the help of our recommendations.

Before we get to the book recommendations for buying real estate and then renting it out, here are 3 tips on the topic: learn for free on Lukinski, we have additional book tips, and for those who want to become real estate investors, another look at the topic of taxes, because the more money you make renting out houses and condos, the more taxes you pay. The more knowledge you build up about renting and taxes, the more equity you will have for future investments as a landlord and real estate investor.

Buy and rent (external & free of charge)

Learn from the experts. You can find many, many more guide articles for free at Lukinski. Here you can learn everything you need to know about buying real estate for free. Start in general with buying real estate, go over your specific type of real estate, from apartment, to house, apartment building to buying land. In addition importantly, everything around sales contract (who pays the costs?), purchase additional expenses and taxes save with real estates. by legal forms such as a real estate GmbH or family donation. You lack the equity capital? Here you can find a comparison of real estate financing. Finally, it’s all about buying and renting as well as letting.

Tip! Overview Real Estate XXL

The world of real estate is complex and multifaceted. If you want to keep an overview and avoid making mistakes, you should prepare well and clarify as many open questions as possible in good time. No matter whether you want to build, buy and rent out a property or live in it yourself, or even use a property as an investment to generate passive income: The preparation is the A&O. Here you will find articles, as well as book and video tips with successful and helpful books and videos on the subject of real estate – including tips and tricks from professionals and experts.

• Book & Video Tips Overview: Real Estate

Tax Coaching for Landlords / Investors: Field Report

If you write about real estate, you have to educate yourself. More concretely, when it is no longer just about personal use, but also about renting. Because, the biggest item on the expense side is taxes. The more you earn, the more taxes you have to pay – the problem is clearly defined, what to do? Learn from experience, from those who have made it. Many say that the Next Level Tax Coaching is the best in Germany. Reason enough to take part yourself. You want to become a real estate investor yourself?

Read more about tax coaching here:

• Real estate: Save taxes

Earn money with residential real estate: Private real estate investor

Rating: 4.7 / 5.0 (914 ratings)

In this book by Alexander Goldwein you will find all the information on making money with residential real estate:

• Strategies for safe & profitable investment in residential real estate
• Finding lucrative income properties even in tight markets
• Basic real estate valuation and purchase price determination
• Checklists for professional examination & negotiation strategies for the purchase
• Strategies for optimal financing and leverage of return on equity
• Calculation of cash flow & return with the Excel calculation tool available as a bonus
• Tax-optimised management & realisation of capital gains
• Practice-relevant basics of real estate law (including the particularities of rented condominiums)
• Practical basics of tenancy law (including regulations on rent increases)
• Buy at Amazon

Private real estate investor in 6 months

Rating: 4.5 / 5.0 (177 ratings)

On the basis of these topics Thomas Knedel will show you the way to success with residential real estate:

• Methods around the purchase of investment properties especially in tight markets
• The necessary steps for a secure real estate and site assessment
• Guidance on the calculation of the various yield ratios and valuation of properties
• The tools for the best possible optimization of your investments
• Proper selection of tenants and service providers
• Strategies to effectively reduce the personal tax burden
• Innovative methods for optimizing the return on equity
• Checklists for the professional inspection of investment properties
• Buy at Amazon

Buy real estate, rent it out and earn money

Rating: 4.5 / 5.0 (147 ratings)

In this part of the real estate guidebook series by Bernd Ebersbach you will learn everything about the topic of “buying real estate, renting and earning money”:

• Exclusive insider knowledge: honest confessions from the hand of the experienced real estate agent Bernd Ebersbach
• Real estate: the right choice and valuation. Analyses of the micro, macro and meso situation in the city and neighbourhood of your choice.
• Optimal preparation for visits:
• With the right knowledge of floor plan, energy saving class, defect assessment and building age class, you will manage to acquire a high-yield property.
• Prepare yourself optimally for viewings with this book. With the right knowledge of floor plan, energy-saving class, defect assessment and building age class, you will manage to acquire a high-yield property.
• Risk minimization and complete financing planning
• Management and insurance: the basics of success
• With this concept you will find the perfect tenants – proven many times over
• Opportunities to increase rental income
• Special forms of letting: whether a listed building, holiday or trade fair apartment, letting as a sun roof or film location
• Buy at Amazon

The first property expertly buy, manage, sell

Rating: 4.8 / 5.0 (82 ratings)

This real estate guide provides beginners with the knowledge they need to buy a home, rent an apartment, or invest in multiple properties:

• A guide for beginners: everything about buying real estate, renting and property management
• Buyer and seller: tips for successful communication between both parties
• Can be used as a working document: with sample files for downloading, such as the service charge statement
• Testimonials from the successful real estate agent Jürgen Berreth
• Available as an Amazon eBook: accessible anytime and anywhere
• Buy at Amazon

The landlord set: rental agreements, notice of termination, etc.

Rating: 4.4 / 5.0 (77 ratings)

Rental agreements, service charge statements, handover protocol, notice of termination – Stiftung Warentest’s landlord set shows what you as a landlord have to consider and answers all important questions in a simple and clear manner. In addition, you will receive legally binding forms for the rental agreement and your correspondence with the tenant:

• From finding a tenant to moving out: All important questions clarified, easy to understand and without legalese
• Rental contract with all annexes and completion help: Conclude the right contract in a legally secure and uncomplicated way
• A wealth of other forms: For example, tenant self-disclosure, handover protocol, service charge statement, rent termination agreement, security deposit statement.
• All forms to detach and additionally on the internet: With step-by-step instructions for completion
• Buy at Amazon

Real estate? Real estate. Real estate!

Rating: 4.5 / 5.0 (33 ratings)

In this real estate volume, you’ll find info on buying, renting, and managing real estate:

• When is a capital investment worthwhile and what do you have to watch out for?
• What parameters have to be right for you to invest in real estate and be relaxed about the future?
• Solutions to problems with tenants
• Useful insiders for the world of real estate
• Buy at Amazon

Renting and leasing for dummies

Rating: 4.4 / 5.0 (37 ratings)

With the help of the guidebook Renting and Letting for Dummies you will learn everything there is to know about renting and letting real estate:

• Rights and obligations of tenant and landlord
• Information on the rent brake, estate agent fees, deposits, renovation clauses, the ancillary costs statement, rent increases, minor repairs, housing defects or notice of termination
• Numerous checklists and sample templates
• Everything for smooth communication between both parties
• Buy at Amazon

Buying real estate for dummies

Rating: 4.2 / 5.0 (22 ratings)

The second Dummies guide is aimed at anyone who would like to buy a property but has no experience:

• Search for the ideal property for owner occupation or rental
• Financing and contracting
• Summary of all costs incurred
• Assistance in negotiating contracts and dealing with estate agents, notaries and lenders
• Buy at Amazon

Related links about the topic Real estate

Would you like to learn more about the world of real estate? You can also find more about financing and information for beginners here. With our articles on the topics of taxes, real estate ownership and much more, you will not only become a real estate professional, but also a tax professional.

Real estate financing

Real estate financing – You want to buy a property, but do not know how you can finance your dream? Terms such as loan, interest, credit, repayment or building society contract only raise more questions for you? Here you will find all the important information on the subject of real estate financing: from financing with equity to financing without equity to applying for a loan, we cover all the important topics!

• Video Tips: Real estate financing
• Book recommendations: Real Estate Finance

Real estate/ home taxes

Taxes in the field of real estate / home: For beginners, the tax world is already quite confusing, but to connect the whole thing again with the real estate world, is its own little world. We want to make this entry easier for you with the best recommendations and tips from the pros. Our book tips will guide you through the whole world of real estate and taxes and help you learn the basics, guides for private investors and savings tips.

• Video Tips: Taxes real estate / home
• Book Recommendations: Taxes Real Estate / Home Ownership

• Back to Book & Video Tips Overview: Real Estate

Real estate as a capital investment – comparison of houses and land

Using real estate as a capital investment is currently a trend and for good reason. Interest rates are currently at an all-time low, which has a negative impact not only on the profitability of traditional investments such as government bonds or equities, but also on the conditions for loans. Mehr dazu: Lukinski They are very attractive due to the low interest rates and house buyers can take out loans at very advantageous conditions from banks. But also the development of the real estate market speaks for the investment in a real estate. Investment property prices are rising steadily, especially in hip areas such as Berlin, Hamburg and Munich, which is reflected in high yields.

Real estate can be used as a capital investment in three different ways. First of all through self-use. A property is bought and the owner lives in it himself, thus saving rental costs and using his investment. Of course, the property can also be rented out. Thus, the investment is used to earn monthly rents and thus increase its equity. In addition, the money can also be invested indirectly in real estate through real estate shares or funds. A lucrative method for investors of smaller capital or those who shy away from the administrative expense of owning their own property. However, it should be clearly mentioned that a property is a long-term investment and is not suitable or profitable for short-term investments.

The 9 most important key figures – Real estate as investments

• Purchase price –The purchase price should always be set in relation to the annual cold rent. Check here whether the ratio is usual for the location. A factor of 20-25 tends to be favourable and common in most locations, but from a factor of 30 it becomes expensive.
• Auxiliary costs –In your calculation pay attention in any case to the land transfer tax, the notary costs and the broker commission, since these can make up a considerable amount
• Taxes –How high is the depreciation and the marginal tax rate and what effects can this have on the property as an investment?
• Lifetime –A property is a long-term investment. The intended useful life should always be known in advance, also in order to evaluate the lucrativeness of the property.
• Resale –What influences the performance of your property and how can you resell it profitably in the future?
• Income –In what area are the square metre costs in your region? And what rental income can be expected? Consider also the case if the property is empty and a new tenant has to be found and the rent losses associated with it.
• Maintenance effort –How old is the property and is it possible to incur future costs for renovation, refurbishment, etc.?
• Administrative costs –How high are the administrative costs that the property occupies?
• Financing –Do you need financing to acquire the property as a capital investment? Be sure to pay attention to the monthly repayment rates and whether a property is still worthwhile as a capital investment for you.

Here you can find the answer to the question: How can I invest my money sensibly?

One-family house as capital investment – renting, own use or as holiday home

Investing in a detached house has many advantages. For the investment in a house a considerable capital is assumed first of all natural. By letting, however, the capital invested can grow and the property pays for itself in the long term. Compared to other investment properties, a detached house offers the advantage that it can be offered at a high rental rate depending on its location and quality, and the investment pays for itself and yields success in a shorter period of time. Single-family homes are also in great demand and popular with young families in particular. Of course, a single-family house can also be used for one’s own purposes or made available to one’s own children or family members. Single-family houses are also suitable as holiday homes in the right areas and as such can be rented out temporarily.

Land as investment – clever businessmen watch out

The acquisition of land as an investment can be very profitable if certain things are taken into account. On the one hand, due to steadily rising population rates, it can be assumed that real estate will no longer lose value in the future. In addition, buyers have the advantage that the additional revenue generated after the sale of the property becomes tax-free after a holding period of at least 10 years. During the holding period, the capital invested can also be increased by rent or lease income. An additional possibility is the rental of small rental spaces, such as garages, parking spaces, parking lots, storage containers, but also the rental of space for advertising, vending machines or clothes collection boxes is possible. A trick that clever businessmen use again and again is the purchase of very large areas of arable land. This land is then divided into smaller sections and resold for the construction of single-family houses, for example. Large plots are usually relatively cheap compared to smaller plots, which makes the sale of several divided small plots profitable.

Investment in land also has some advantages over investment in real estate. The holding costs are comparatively lower. In addition, there is a lower risk of damage to the building or nomadic tenants.

Two-family- & multiple dwelling as investment – much responsibility for investors

First and foremost, two-family houses or apartment buildings have the advantage that they generate regular rental income from several tenants instead of just one rental income per month, as is the case with single-family houses. The security of the capital increase is therefore comparatively high for multi-family houses, whereby it must also be noted that the capital contribution must also be higher than for a single-family house or a property. A further risk exists in possible rent losses or expensive repairs, which must be made at the house. Investing in a multi-family dwelling has a high responsibility and in the worst case can mean a lot of work, but the capital investment can also be very profitable and have many advantages.

Condominium as an investment – small starting capital, high capital maximization

A condominium as a capital investment offers great opportunities to maximize the capital invested. The possibilities are somewhat limited compared to a house as an investment, but the risk is lower. The rental of the condominium brings a monthly rent, which expands the capital employed. As a prerequisite, however, a lower starting capital is necessary than with the purchase of a house, which is extremely advantageous for many buyers. The risk of loss of rent also exists with this capital investment, but the risk of damage is much lower than with a house. The EIgentumswohnung can also be used as a holiday home and can be rented to short-term tenants or used for personal use.

5 tips for buyers – a property as an investment

• Tip 1: Clarify your budget at an early stage
  The amount of equity capital is the most important indicator that future real estate owners should deal with. This key figure is not only important for the calculation, but also for the repayment of the possible loan and interest. How much budget is available is therefore decisive for the purchase decision process and influences it the most.
• Tip 2: erase as high as possible
  The initial redemption should be at least two percent, so that you also have something of your property in the long term. This plays an important role especially in low-interest phases, since the repayment portion of the rate increases more slowly with low interest rates than with high ones.
• Tip 3: Estimate prices correctly
  In order not to buy a property above the market price, important parameters should always be compared in advance. Points such as location, price development, environment and equipment or size of the house should be compared with the individual market of the environment.
• Tip 4: Hedging interest rates
  Choosing a long borrowing rate commitment is essential for real estate buyers, because if the market interest rate has risen at the end of the borrowing rate commitment, the credit rates automatically become expensive. A low-interest phase should therefore be exploited in order to secure the best interest rates for the entire term as far as possible. Full planning security offers full repayment loans that are fully paid off at the end of the fixed interest period.
• Tip 5: always stay calm
  Even if market pressure prevails, the decision to invest in real estate should not be made prematurely. It means keeping calm and always rethinking the decision well. When making this decision, always consider the rental income in relation to the returns on other investments.

New building VS old building – care and maintenance of the investment

The question of a new building or an old building is not always easy, because both captivate with their own advantages. A new building has the decisive advantage that the property can be designed entirely according to the wishes of the client. This applies both to the property itself and to the choice of location. When a new house is built, the latest technology is always used. Both in terms of security and theft protection as well as energy efficiency. The latest insulation and thermal insulation not only helps the environment, but also reduces heating costs. But a building also has one or two disadvantages. Building a house can be very strenuous and exhausting, as the client always has to keep control over the construction site and the work required. In case of problems with the developer, the client always gets the short end of the stick, as the money invested is usually lost. In addition, construction errors are only noticed very late in a new building, usually only after a few years. In addition, a new building is more expensive than an old one because everything has to be made new. With an old building, on the other hand, the stressful planning and construction phase is eliminated and the move-in can be started immediately. The old building also has the advantage that it can be inspected and checked for construction errors in advance. Since there are no costs for the public development, old buildings are usually cheaper than a new building, even if with an old building often still renovation and redevelopment costs result. In order to avoid these costs as much as possible, a detailed appraisal of the building should be made in advance to avoid any negative surprises. A further disadvantage of the old building is that conversion measures are often only possible to a limited extent due to the building structure or monument protection.