Maisonette apartment: meaning and international differences

As soon as you hear that the name comes from the French and means small house, you can directly imagine much more under the term maisonette. But still, caution is advised here, because what is called a maisonette outside of Germany does not always describe what we understand by it.

In our country, the word maisonette refers to apartments that have two floors connected by a staircase open in the room, giving a little more space to furnish and live. In France, for example, any medium-sized housing unit can be called a maisonette.

The British understanding of maisonette is much closer to what would be called maisonette in Germany, but above all, a maisonette apartment in the United Kingdom is characterized by a separate entrance. For example, if the apartment is located above a shop, the maisonette apartment definitely has an entrance that is located next to the shop.

So if you are looking for an apartment abroad or for a holiday home, be aware that your understanding of maisonette might differ from what the ad means.

Tip. Are you interested in real estate and investments in general? Then take a look at our Real Estate XXL Guide, in which topics such as houses, apartments, buying and selling are explained in an understandable way.

Are you looking for the right apartment? Here you’ll find definitions, meanings and lots of information on penthouses, granny flats, apartments & co.: Apartment types from A-Z

What is a maisonette?

Many people dream of living in a maisonette apartment. What that actually means and what you should be prepared for if you want to move into a maisonette apartment, you will find here. So let’s take a look at what exactly is meant by a maisonette apartment in Germany, so that you can get an idea of whether you might actually enjoy living in this type of apartment. In Germany, a maisonette apartment is an apartment that is arranged contiguously on at least two floors of a building. It can be located on either the lower or upper floors of a building. In most cases, however, a maisonette apartment comprises the attic and the floor below. The second floor of a maisonette apartment can also be designed as an open gallery, as well as a comprehensive floor.

Features of duplex or gallery apartments

Maisonette apartments are also known under the name gallery apartment or, especially in modern architecture more and more often, as duplex apartment. Just the term gallery apartment gives a lot of information about what kind of architecture it is, because you get two floors, but the upper floor does not have to be a full room and often is not.

Room layout of a maisonette apartment: semi-floors and galeries

Now to the core of what sets a duplex apartment apart from other options: the layout of the floors. As already teased, a duplex apartment is characterized by the fact that it does not remain only on one floor, but that two floors are connected by an open staircase, often located in the edge of the room.

The upper floor can form its own full floor. In most cases, however, it is rather a gallery or even a mezzanine, which extends the high space and provides additional living space.

Source: duplex apartment (Lukinski.de)

Advantages & disadvantages of maisonettes: space, furnishings & co.

Due to the architecture of the apartment form some advantages and disadvantages. What is particularly interesting is that some of the positive aspects can have negative side effects at the same time. For example, many people appreciate maisonettes because they are so open. However, heating an open space can lead to an unexpectedly high utility bill.

For example, if free-standing stairs are something that you personally find aesthetically pleasing, then maisonettes will definitely appeal to you, but stairs also limit the accessibility of an apartment at the same time.

Many people like apartments in the attic particularly well, but living in the attic can also bring disadvantages with it, so it is particularly warm in the summer under the roof and roof slopes restrict you in the arrangement.

Advantages of the maisonette

The fact that you have landed on this page indicates that you are probably looking for a rental apartment or are about to buy your first apartment. In any case, maisonettes offer the feeling of a home. Friends of the apartment form often bring up these aspects when you are in the decision phase:

• Optimal use of space
• Open room design
• Top floor apartment

Disadvantages a gallery apartment

No type of apartment is completely free of disadvantages. Since these should also be a decisive factor in your decision-making process, we have summarized the biggest disadvantages of gallery apartments for you briefly and clearly:

• Not barrier free
• Possibly high heating costs
• No noise reduction
• Roof slopes

Tip! If you want to furnish your maisonette especially pretty and are looking for inspiration, you should definitely visit our interior style article, here you will find tips on furnishing trends such as Skandi style, Boho Chic or the Industrial Style: Furnishing styles XXL

For whom are maisonettes suitable?

In terms of price, duplex apartments are in the mid-price range. They are not quite as expensive as a loft, for example, but can also be somewhat more expensive depending on the size. For this reason, it is important to compare prices and, above all, to find out about the rent index in the desired city or district.

Couples: Living as a couple

For two, maisonettes are really super just when you are a bit more familiar with each other, as it can be difficult to get out of each other’s way from time to time. The reason for this is that the open design occasionally offers a little privacy between the individual rooms. However, that’s not to say that you can’t create this with simple installations, if you like to get a bit creative when it comes to interior design a maisonette is just the solution for you.

Singles: Enough space for one person

We’re going to go out on a limb and say that maisonettes are the ideal place for singles. You have more living space than you get with many other housing solutions. Apartments with a gallery, even if they have been around for a while, often still look very modern. But be careful: in old buildings, the ancillary costs of an open living solution can quickly skyrocket and that would be a really rude awakening.

Furnishing maisonettes: Practical tips and tricks

From the advantages of the apartments it already follows that this type of living environment gives the freedom to play very nicely with certain things. For example, the open spaces give the possibility to accommodate larger pieces of furniture without them being overwhelming.

Making the most of stairs: Storage space, plants and co.

In addition, the space under the free staircases can be put to very special use, here you can either do it yourself and build your own shelves, a cupboard or other furnishings that do not leave the space unused.

In addition, the banisters of the stairs can be decorated in their own unique way. Here plants can come into play to give the new home a bit of green. Alternatively, things can be hung from the stairs and so, for example, storage space can be created under this, which is not directly discovered by guests and also you yourself is not a thorn in the eye.

Acoustics: noise insulation in large open living spaces

A very big drawback that maisonettes bring is that it creates a large open space for sound. This is not always in the interest of the residents. That’s why we’ve found a few practical ways to help you create a more pleasant room sound in a maisonette apartment, without much effort. It should be said, however, that not every solution works everywhere, so pay attention to your lease or consult with experts.

• Noise absorber
• (Elastic) floor coverings
• High pile carpets
• Ceiling rugs
• Seal doors
• Wood furnishings
• Soft materials (curtains, cushions, carpets, etc.)

Heating: Keeping open living spaces, such as maisonettes, warm

We have already warned you about the surprise service charges that can await you in duplex apartments. However, we do not want to leave you without tips on how you can avoid this rude awakening and enjoy your new apartment to the fullest. For this reason, we have collected ideas for you that keep your home warm and cozy even in winter by storing heat or keeping it in the room.

• Furniture
• Curtains
• Blinds
• Carpets
• Closed doors

Loft apartment: What actually is a loft?

A loft apartment has its own unique charm. Knowing that this was an old industrial building makes you appreciate the historical background of the building even more. Not sure if this type of apartment is right for you? Here you can find out the most important facts and features of a loft and decide if it suits you.

Tip! Are you about to buy your first own apartment? Then take a look at our comprehensive article on the subject of buying an apartment. Here, topics such as the process, costs or advantages and disadvantages of buying an apartment are explained.

Are you looking for the right apartment? Here you’ll find definitions, meanings and lots of information on penthouses, granny flats, apartments & co.: Apartment types from A-Z

Important features of a loft: walls and floors with character

First of all, you should know by now that lofts were created from old industrial buildings. In most cases, the loft is not on the ground, offers one to two floors and is a large open space. Typical features are for example floors and ceilings made of concrete, as well as brick or unplastered walls, which already give character to the initially empty space. It is also not uncommon to see openly laid pipes. Imagine a loft like a blank sheet of paper, which you can design and convert as you wish.

Room layout: one room with many possibilities

Because lofts are former factory premises, there is usually only one large and spacious room, rather than several small ones. In addition, this type of construction offers very high ceilings and large window fronts. So you always have plenty of daylight to fill the large space, which makes your apartment feel open and friendly. You also have the possibility to arrange the rooms yourself and to furnish your loft according to your wishes and needs. For example, use high cupboards or shelves to create a specific room layout. This type of architecture offers you the chance to live out your creativity.

Advantages & disadvantages of a loft: free space, flooded with light etc.

Before deciding to buy or rent an apartment, you should find out about the particular type of apartment and consider for yourself whether you could live in it. Especially a loft apartment offers many advantages, but also some disadvantages. For sure, this type of architecture is not for everyone and for that we have compiled a list of the most important facts about lofts for you. Get smart and see for yourself if you could imagine living in such an apartment.

Advantages: a lot of freedom and opportunity for development

Lots of free space and an open ambience. These are probably the biggest advantages of a loft apartment. Especially for young adults, this can be the perfect place to live. It’s not uncommon to create a combination of work and personal life by dividing your apartment accordingly. So, you would have the option of designing your loft in such a way that you demarcate one private area and receive business partners or clients in the other. Due to the extravagant ambience and the charm of the listed building, you can create the perfect space for a variety of purposes. Be creative, flexible and have the possibility to design your loft according to your requirements.

• Very much free space
• Extravagant ambience, flexible design
• Historical background, mostly listed buildings
• Combination of professional and private life

Disadvantages: high price, a lot of gathering and little privacy

Despite the many advantages and the free space that you get in a loft, there are also some disadvantages that you have to consider. For example, you have to consider that many lofts are already very old and unkempt and therefore in need of renovation. If this is not the case and they are in top condition, the price is usually very high. In addition, one should take into account that there may be high additional costs. Since this type of construction usually only has one large room with high walls, it takes a long time to heat it and the brick walls make the apartment less insulated. Finally, you must always take into account that especially if you do not live alone, retreat and privacy is rather difficult.

• High prices or in need of renovation
• High ancillary costs, difficult to heat
• Little retreat, no privacy

Source: Loft apartment (Lukinski.de)

Loft Apartment: For whom is a loft suitable?

Loft apartments, while usually highly sought after, are certainly not for everyone. By being a large, open space, there is little room to retreat, which could be difficult if you have a family of several. Still, this type of architecture would suit a variety of people. We’ve listed a few groups here that would certainly think highly of the extravagant ambiance and could do a lot with it.

Company – space for exchange

You don’t have to use a loft just as a living space. During the last years it has become more and more attractive for companies to rent a loft apartment as office space. You have the possibility to work in an open atmosphere and to live out your creativity. There is less and less emphasis on a sterile, segregated office atmosphere, but rather the focus is on collaboration and, above all, quick exchange. The building structure of a loft also offers charm and is modern, which is particularly in demand with young companies or start-ups.

Yuppies – young, successful adults

Especially for singles or single people a loft is perfect. The target group here is young, successful adults who can afford this kind of apartment. If you have this option, everything is open to you with this type of construction. You have the possibility to give free rein to your creativity, you can create and design rooms and live freely. Since you live alone, you don’t need a specific retreat and even if you receive visitors, the atmosphere is open and friendly due to the architecture. It is also very popular to combine the professional with the private space, for example by changing your furnishings to create a place for customers or business partners.

Seniors – functional and creative

Lofts would also be ideal for retirees to live in. Because there is only one large room, it is at ground level and there are no stairs. So it is extremely practical, because you can reach every room quickly and everything is designed barrier-free. In addition, the large, free space also offers space for new hobbies, as you can give free rein to your creativity and so, in his later years well passes the time.

What you should consider before buying/renting a loft space

Especially with older buildings, you should do thorough research before buying or renting. Something unexpected could always come up and to avoid that, you have to consider a few things. We took the trouble for you and did some research. Here you will find the most important points that you should consider before buying.

In addition to the location and condition of the property, factors such as the process or costs must also be clarified before the purchase. You can find more information on this in our article on the subject of buying an apartment.

Surroundings & location – no city centre, but outskirts of town

You should definitely find out beforehand where your loft apartment is and whether the infrastructure is sufficient for your needs. The old warehouse or industrial buildings are usually not located in the city center, but rather on the outskirts in industrial areas. Of course, it’s not uncommon that trains or buses don’t run every hour. So think about whether such a location would be suitable for you and whether you need to be connected to public transport. If you have a car, you will usually have no problem finding a parking space or getting to the motorway quickly.

Need for renovation – you have to get creative

Another important point is to check the need for renovation of your loft. As you already know, it’s not uncommon for old industrial buildings to be run down and unkempt. Therefore, we recommend you to consult an expert to avoid unnecessary costs. Have the apartment inspected beforehand and compile a list of the costs still to be incurred. Then you can decide for yourself whether the purchase plus the renovation fit into your budget. With the right planning, nothing can go wrong.

You should also look at the walls and insulation. Most lofts have brick walls, which are not well insulated. This is also an important point to avoid higher utility costs. So check this and make the necessary improvements.

How do you furnish a loft? Tips for furnishing & Co.

When you choose a loft, there are no limits to your creativity. Mix between modern and vintage and design your space as you see fit. Take advantage of the generous daylight that is given to you due to the window fronts. Create your own room layout with cabinets, shelves or curtains and keep the charm of the old building by highlighting certain industrial elements. Use your freedom and go wild. Feel free to check out our interior items from Rolf Benz or B&B Italia. The furniture would fit perfectly in a loft.

Tips for the perfect interior

Who wants to furnish his new apartment perfectly, it is not always easy. Who the furnishings and decorating was not laid in the cradle often needs a few tips and inspiration to implement his dreams of living. Here you will find some helpful tips that can help to create a cozy interior and atmosphere.

Tip! All trendy styles such as Skandi style, retro look, industrial style and much more can be found in our comprehensive overview: Furnishing styles XXL.

• Modern, vintage interior or style mix
• Use the daylight
• Create your own room layout
• Highlight industrial elements

Old building apartment: What is actually an old building?

What does a typical apartment in an old building look like and does it suit me? You should definitely ask yourself this question before you decide on this type of apartment. Of course, the exterior facade, especially between the new concrete buildings, is an absolute eye-catcher. With the stuccoed walls and the small balconies or wall protrusions, Altbau houses definitely stand out. But what does it actually look like inside?

Are you looking for the right apartment? Then take a look at our guide to apartment types from A-Z! Here you’ll find definitions, meanings and lots of information about penthouse, granny flat, apartment & co.

Characteristics of old buildings: the unmistakable charm

An old building apartment has many characteristic building elements to offer. In addition to beautiful stucco-decorated interior walls, double doors or a bay window, the high ceilings are a characteristic of this type of building. These can rise from three to over 4.5 metres in height and give your room much more freedom and size. Likewise, the classic wooden floorboards and herringbone parquet flooring are a trademark of the old building and give your home something quaint. The box-type windows are also part of the architecture of the old building. In those days, double windows were built with a space between them, which was mainly used for insulation. All these features ensure that old buildings have a charm that is very attractive, especially for young adults.

We got our tips and information mainly from the following source: Altbauwohnung (Lukinski.de)

Special room layout of an old building: Large hallway, built-in cupboards & passage room

Old building apartments are known for their small passage rooms, storage rooms or built-in closets. It doesn’t matter if the rooms are smaller or larger in design. The most important thing is that you use the space upwards. No other building style has such high ceilings, giving you the opportunity to use that space as well and not waste it. Possibilities include high shelves to allow for storage or a large hanging lamp. You have many options, so get creative and don’t waste space.

Advantages & disadvantages of an old building apartment

As with any type of building, there are always different advantages and disadvantages that you should consider before you rent or buy such an apartment. We do the work for you and have summarized the most important advantages and disadvantages of an old building apartment for you. You can then weigh up whether this building style is something for you and whether you can make friends with the disadvantages.

Advantages: high ceilings, stucco and special windows

Living in an old building offers you not only many aesthetic advantages, but also some practical ones. Besides the advantages of high ceilings, most old houses also have a basement with possible storage space. In addition, most old houses are listed and if you plan to buy such a house, you have the possibility of 90% of the renovation costs (within 10 years) tax deductible. Also, the box-type windows not only look nice, but also insulate the room through the double windows to insulate sound and, for example, to store warm air in the room. These are not to be equated with today’s standards, but a nice side effect.

• High ceilings with stucco
• Monument protection
• Often cellar with storage space

Disadvantages: a charming creak of the floorboards

By law, buildings built up to 1949 can be called old buildings. Therefore, it is unfortunately inevitable to have to take some, small disadvantages with in purchase. On the one hand, it is often the case that you buy an apartment in need of renovation and must therefore bring in additional capital. However, you have the opportunity to renovate the apartment according to your creative wishes. In addition, the walls are usually thin, so it is more brighthörig and the old floors creak and crack from time to time. Also, there is usually no elevator and due to the high ceilings it takes longer to heat up the room.

• Renovation may be required
• Slow to heat up because of the high ceilings
• Light-hearing, creaking of the floor
• Mostly no elevator

Old building apartment: For whom is it suitable – students, singles & Co.

Although an old building apartment gives a beautiful charm, this type of construction may not be for everyone. You have to weigh the pros and cons and personally see if this type of architecture suits you. Here are a few groups that we think would be a perfect fit for an apartment in an old building.

Students: the perfect flat share

The unique charm of old apartments is especially popular with young adults. If you just want to move out or have to move to study, an old building is definitely perfect for you. For one thing, apartments in old buildings are often in the middle of the city centre and close to the university, giving you the opportunity to be flexible. On the other hand, they are perfect for living in a shared flat. Due to the many small rooms, you can easily live with three or four people and share the rent.

Singles: feel safe

Apartments in old buildings are also very attractive for single people. The proximity to the city centre or to work is also an important factor here. In addition, the special construction with the smaller rooms and high ceilings allow you to live out your individuality. In addition, this architecture lends a cosy and quaint atmosphere and makes you feel secure and familiar.

Couples: family in planning?

Often, old apartments are not only located in the city center, but also on the outskirts or in different neighborhoods. Especially these properties are suitable for young couples who may already be thinking about family planning. On the one hand, one is still quickly in the city center and can reach everything easily, on the other hand, one is no longer involved in the urban hustle and bustle has a little more peace. In addition, the small rooms and the high ceilings offer plenty of room for personal development, but also for potential children’s rooms.

Here’s what you should consider before buying/renting an old building

Whether you’re buying or renting, it’s always a good idea to find out exactly what the building type is so you’re prepared for anything. Especially with older buildings, there are some points that you should consider. We present you here the most important things, so that you can clarify everything in advance and no unexpected costs hit you.

Please also have a look at our article on the procedure, costs and advantages and disadvantages of buying an apartment!

What to consider when buying

First of all, you should inform yourself about the structural condition of your apartment. Especially in old buildings, there are some things that have not been modernised or that require special attention. Before buying, it’s best to find a specialist who can support you and give you an insight into the possible renovation work. For example, it could be that the exterior siding is damaged, causing moisture and mold to enter the home. In addition, it could be that the statics need to be repaired to ensure stability or that repair work needs to be done. So get help and then nothing can really go wrong.

• Structural condition?
• Statics
• Possible repair work?

Renting an old apartment: What to consider?

Even if you decide to only rent an old building, you should also consider a few things. If there is anything that needs to be renovated in your future apartment, you should definitely discuss this with the landlord beforehand and have it stipulated in writing. This will protect you from being stuck with unexpected costs later on and from being held responsible for any damage. You should also always discuss any changes with your landlord. So if you want to change something in your apartment beyond decoration, clarify everything in advance, because it could be that you are required to return the apartment in its original condition.

• Record renovations in writing
• Agree changes with landlord

Heating systems in old buildings: heating, insulation & co.

In old apartments, it’s not always easy to have the right temperature and still not get a heating bill that’s too high. Especially since there is a lot of emphasis on climate friendliness these days. If the temperature is too low, mold could form, if it is too high, the climate will be more stressed. Here we’ll tell you a few useful tricks to keep your utility bill as low as possible.

• Time switch on the heater

It would be best if the heating is turned off about an hour before you go to bed and turned on again an hour before you wake up. This way you don’t waste money unnecessarily during the night and still wake up in a warm environment.

• Temperature difference between rooms

You should not have too high a room temperature in rooms that you use less. Instead, you can set it higher in the rooms that you use often, because this also keeps your utility costs lower. However, always make sure to close the doors between the rooms, otherwise the warm air will escape, for example.

• Do not place furniture in front of the radiator

In order for the heat to be ideally distributed in the room, you should not place any furniture or objects in front of the heater. It would also make sense to keep a small distance between your furniture and the wall, so that the outer wall does not cool down too much.

Furnishing an old apartment: Furnishing tips for your apartment

With an old building you have many possibilities to let your imagination run wild. Especially popular is the style mix of quaint, vintage furniture and a modern, personal touch. Especially the characteristic construction method offers a lot of leeway and more freedom in the old building.

Furnishings: vintage, modern or a mix of styles?

Here you have the choice of going more in the modern direction, keeping the old building charm or mixing the two styles. The only thing to keep in mind is that you want to incorporate the whole room. For example, we would recommend a large bookshelf that goes all the way to the ceiling to create storage space. Also, long hanging lamps fit very well in the rooms to fill everything with light. Take a look at our interior articles from Dior Maison or Boca Do Lobo. You’re sure to find the right ideas there.

Tip. Everything on the topic of interior design, from Skandi style to industrial look, can be found here: Furnishing styles XXL

Selling real estate – how to make the sale uncomplicated and profitable

Selling a property successfuly as a beginner is harder than you think. There are many things to consider and many mistakes that can be made. So you should be aware of the procedures from the start and be sure that you are doing everything right. If you are approaching a home sale without any help you should be prepared for a lot of time commitment and a lot of self-organization. The only way to make this process easier is to have the right expertise on the subject. Learn more about selling a house (external)!

Determining the value of real estate – this is how experts proceed

What are the exact criteria for determining the value of a property and how exactly do appraisers proceed when preparing the appraisal? In general, according to § 194 BauGB, the market value should reflect the price that would have been achieved in the normal business year at the time of the determination without regard to unusual or personal circumstances. In order to determine this value, experts are guided by various criteria:

The ground value

The standard land value is probably the most important criterion for determining the market value, as it is the basis for its calculation. The standard land value indicates the value for one square metre of undeveloped land in the respective standard land value zones.

The structural and technical condition of a property

The second important criterion is of course the condition of the property. This includes not only the materials used, such as building materials, wiring, pipes or electrical systems, but also the age of the property and the materials. In addition, extras such as outdoor facilities, carports, gardens and garages can have a positive effect on the valuation and reinforce a positive assessment.

The location of the properties

On the one hand, the location of the property includes the infrastructure of the nearby surroundings, such as transport connections, shopping facilities, but also connections to doctors or hospitals. On the other hand, trendy locations have an advantage, especially in large cities. The higher the popularity of the neighbourhood, the higher the value of the property there.

The energetic state

First of all, of course, the presentation of the energy certificate is necessary. This shows how high the energy consumption is. The higher, the worse. In addition, how high quality and new the insulation of the outer walls and the roof are. These significantly determine the energy consumption and the energy costs increase enormously with poor insulation.

The degree of development of the property

Also important for the value of the property is the degree of development. This means that it must be checked whether the property is connected to important networks such as the water system, the telephone network but also the electricity. Of course, it is an advantage if the property is connected to all important networks.

Contaminated sites on the property

Contaminated sites on the property are of course not advantageous for the property, as they have to be taken over by the new owner. Such contaminated sites are noted in the land register and negatively affect the appraisal, since more costs come to potential buyers.

The current market situation

The price of a property is always determined by supply and demand, which is why this criterion also plays an important role for the expert. Here, sales data from comparable properties in similar locations are used and compared with the data for the property under review.

The right presentation – this is how you put your property in the right light

The right advertisement is the be-all and end-all for the self-marketing of a property. But other aspects must also be taken into account. If you approach a house sale without help, you should be prepared for a high expenditure of time and a lot of self-organisation. This process can only be made easier by having the right specialist knowledge on the subject.

The advertisement – correct wording, the pictures and the first impression

There’s nothing worse than your ad getting lost in the shuffle. Short, sober descriptions bore potential buyers and are uninviting. Therefore, pay attention to a loose but still serious formulation already in the title. To achieve this, you should use language that is as rich in imagery as possible, which arouses emotions and thus attracts attention. Think about which headline you would stick to yourself. Special advantages of your real estate can be emphasized thereby by formulations, like ‘elegant old building with stucco’ or ‘sun-flooded south terrace’, because you work enthusiastically and invite the Immobiliensuchende directly. Try to attract the buyer already with the headline, so that he continues to click on your ad.

The text of the advertisement – exact description and mentioning of the advantages

Once the potential buyer is on your ad, two other factors can convince them of the property. The text of the ad and your pictures. In your text you should explain important key data of the property as well as object criteria. This includes the number of rooms, district, balcony, fitted kitchen, floor, but also full bath or basement rooms. Describe the location of the apartment, the advantages and also name the equipment as precisely as possible. This includes kitchen equipment, heating systems but also other objects that will remain in the property. In the course of this, mention the costs for the compensation payments for existing equipment and brokerage fees. Also important is information such as rent, service charges and the size of the apartment in square meters.

The images – the be-all and end-all of a good ad

Probably the most important factor, however, are the pictures. A buyer naturally wants to see as much of the property as possible to get an idea of whether the property could be something for them. To take great pictures of your property, there are a few things you need to consider. First and foremost, of course, the rooms should be tidy and clean. You should make sure you take the pictures in daylight, so that the rooms can really be seen and buyers can assess how much daylight falls into the rooms. Your cover photo should be the most expressive and represent the best thing about the home. The most beautiful room, the roof terrace, the open kitchen or maybe the bay window with a view. Pictures of all rooms and if available the garden/balcony/terrace, an exterior view and above all a floor plan should never be missing. The floor plan should never be missing, because the potential buyers get an impression of the size of the individual rooms to each other and can see the layout of the rooms better.

Buying, selling and investing – Immobilien Magazin

You can find out more about real estate in the Real Estate Magazine.

• Apartment for sale? All about the topic: Selling a condominium
• Real estate valuation and appraisal? Ask the experts: IHV Broker & Valuation (external)
• Selling or renting? Earn money with your apartment: rent it out or sell it?
• Want to buy? Here are our tips on buying your first property
• Buy and live? Our guide to buying an apartment
• Retirement Tip: Got a few euros saved up? Read more about: Real estate as an investment

House 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.

Overview of house types: 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 characteristics 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

The legal basis – notary, land register and the purchase contract

Selling a home is a big decision with many legal procedures, contracts and requirements involved. As a homeowner, you should be well informed in advance about what to expect and what you need to keep in mind so that you come out of the deal profitable. For the uninformed in the field, there are many legal basics to consider and especially small stumbling blocks that should be avoided at all costs.

Learn more about the legalities of selling a home from the experts at IHV!

The notary – legal person supervising the purchase contract

The tasks of a notary is to regulate the sale of real estate as an impartial legal authority in such a way that all parties are satisfied and all possible points of dispute are avoided or settled from beginning to end. The notary draws up a public deed (the contract of sale) in which all the necessary legal issues are settled transparently and clearly.
In addition, the notary certifies the real estate purchase contract. Section 311b of the German Civil Code (BGB) stipulates that all legal contracts relating to land, assets, estates and real estate must be notarised. Another task of notaries is to ensure the protection of the buyer and seller. For the legal protection of the buyer, the notary reserves the property for the buyer in the land register as a priority notice, so that the seller cannot sell the property to someone else at short notice. For the legal protection of the seller, the notary arranges for the final transfer of ownership in the land register as soon as the buyer has actually paid the purchase price.
Notaries additionally ensure immediately enforceable claims. This means that the claims set out in notarised contracts are immediately enforceable. Thus, in order to execute the claims, it is no longer necessary to file an extra complaint with a court, but a bailiff can be commissioned immediately. This takes place, for example, if the purchase price is not paid. In addition, a notary explains all unresolved legal issues in a real estate sale. He must explain all legal and juridical questions to all contracting parties so comprehensively, understandably and sufficiently that a documentary registration of the actual will of both parties is possible. You are obliged to do this by virtue of your public office.

The costs incurred by the notary are always the same, because the notary fees are regulated uniformly throughout Germany in the Court and Notary Fees Act (GnotKG). Should a notary seek to regulate costs in a different way, this is ineffective, as this is prohibited by law. This applies to both cost reductions and cost increases.

The purchase contract – the most important points must be regulated

The contract of sale is the legal basis on which a house sale is built. Depending on the case, a purchase contract always looks different, contains more or less regulations, depending on what the parties have agreed. A contract of sale is a complex and extensive contract, which holds many legal ambiguities and also traps for one or the other. The implementation can also take quite some time. Sometimes up to 8 weeks pass between the signing of the contract at the notary’s office and the transfer of ownership in the land register. This disparity between the transfer of the purchase price, the change of ownership and thus the change of use and encumbrances and the final change of ownership and handover raises further legal issues in the sale of a house, which must be regulated in detail in the purchase contract.
The key points that should be covered in any purchase agreement are as follows:

• Which object of purchase is being sold?
• Who is selling to whom?
• What all is sold with it? (Fitted kitchen, property,…)
• How is it sold?
• How does the payment take place? (Cash, bank transfer, …)
• When is the transfer date?
• What is the breakdown of utilities and maintenance costs?
• How are the development costs regulated?
• Are there any possible warranty claims?
• What is the condition of the object?
• Does the object have defects?
• Which permits are available and which are missing?
• Cost allocation
• Authorisation of the notary’s office

The 6 most common mistakes – how to avoid stumbling blocks

Most home sellers are rather inexperienced in the field and don’t know where to start. They often snap a few pictures and post them on a real estate portal. However, homeowners don’t know what to expect, what to look out for, and what all to expect. To prevent this uncertainty, the most important thing to do before selling a house is to inform yourself and seek help from experts in the field.

A broker is excluded from the outset

Of course, it is also possible to successfuly complete a property sale without an estate agent. So before you decide for or against an agent, consider what makes the most sense for you in your situation. An estate agent can take a lot of the work and time out of selling a property. In addition, he advises you in financial as well as in marketing-technical questions. So ask yourself the questions:

• Do I have the time to organize, accompany and complete the entire house sale on my own?
• Is my level of knowledge and professional expertise really sufficient to successfuly complete the sale without a broker?
• Can I coordinate the sale on my own in the fast-paced, regional and targeted real estate market?

You should be aware that selling real estate requires a lot of time, organisation and expertise. An estate agent receives a commission on a successful sale, but this can be set out in an agency agreement. In addition, the agent will then take over work from you, such as the correct advertising of the property, the arrangement and conduct of viewing appointments, the preparation of purchase contracts and the presence at the notary appointment. You have thus permanently someone competent with sufficient expertise at your side, who can advise you in all matters.

You are unprepared for viewing appointments

Potential buyers, are faced with the decision to make a big investment, or not. They want to be on the safe side and be 100% sure about their decision. In order to complete the house sale successfuly, you should give potential buyers as much security as possible. At a viewing appointment, you should therefore be prepared for many questions from buyers and have a good answer to all of them. Often these will be about the condition of the house – how old are the windows / doors? When was the last renovation and refurbishment? What kind of insulation is there? How much are the service charges? and and and – be prepared for all these questions and find out exactly about your house from the outset. Ignorance can unsettle potential buyers or be an excuse to drive down the price. Also, be open with appraisers and understand that your buyers just want to play it safe.

The real estate market value is unknown to you

Every homeowner remembers how much they paid for their house and how much renovation, refurbishment etc. cost. However, it often happens that the value of the property differs from the original purchase price, as property prices are determined by supply and demand. So before you put your property up for sale, you should know the value of it. You can have the property value estimated by an appraiser but also by a realtor and thus know better in what range you can move in the price. Small defects in the house can lower the value of the property and be a reason for potential buyers to depress the purchase price. Therefore, before selling, consider whether you can have minor defects repaired beforehand and thus demand a higher selling price. However, appraisers or estate agents can also help you with this decision and assess whether such an investment is worthwhile.

They are not willing to negotiate

Of course, as a seller, you want to sell your property as profitably as possible. Opposite you, however, is a buyer who is happiest to record a profit at the end. So don’t ruin your chances of buying a house by being unwilling to negotiate, but also accommodate your buyer. There is only one thing that helps in negotiations and that is good preparation. You should consider from the outset, in which framework you can move and what is the absolute minimum for you. You should also come up with good arguments to justify your selling price. This includes, for example, a good infrastructure, the location of the house or even special advantages of your property. An estate agent experienced in negotiations can also help you prepare for a successful negotiation or even support you on the spot. Stubbornness can spoil a lot of things for you and drag out the negotiations unnecessarily. Approach each other and find a price that both parties are happy with.

Your exposé gives a false impression

The exposé is one of the most important things in the successful sale of your property. The exposé is the first thing a potential customer sees and should therefore make the perfect first impression. A bad exposé can even put a spanner in the works of the most beautiful house. What you should definitely pay attention to are good pictures. It helps to have these taken by a photographer, but homemade pictures can also look great. Make sure the pictures are taken in daylight and that the room is easy to see. In addition, it should be tidy and clean so that the potential buyer feels immediately comfortable and can imagine living there. Take pictures of all the rooms and preferably also of the floor plan so that the buyers can get a clear picture of the property. Pictures of the garden or special features of the house also look good. Be honest in the text of your exposé. Do not give the customer false hopes or exaggerate, because this will only lead to disappointment at the viewing appointment.

You do not properly review the purchase contract

The purchase contract and the appointment with the notary are the last steps on the way to a successful house sale. At the notary appointment, the purchase contract is read out again by the notary and both parties sign it. After this appointment, the contract is legally binding and the sale is completed. Before this appointment, you should check the contract of sale thoroughly and be clear about all the points noted. If you are unsure, consult an estate agent in advance who will go through the contract and advise you. You can always ask questions at the notary appointment itself, but the notary will not advise you. He is only responsible for ensuring that the contract is legally correct. To be sure that there are no hidden uncertainties, it is better to have the contract checked in advance.

The house purchase – broker, commission & loans

When first thinking about buying real estate, many questions immediately arise. What is the best way to proceed? Do I need a real estate agent or should I search on my own? How big should the house be, how many square meters and rooms does it need? In which area do I search and above all how much budget do I need? We will now get to the bottom of all these questions.

Learn more about buying a house at IHV!

Requirements – the way to your dream property

In the first step on the way to your dream property, you should first consider what requirements you have for your home. How many rooms do they need and how many square meters should their house and their property have in the best case? Of course, they should also be clear in which area they want to move and adjust their needs according to this scheme. A house in a city will be more expensive than a house in a suburb or in the country. Do you need a school nearby or should a supermarket be within walking distance. Do you want a garden or a child friendly environment. Of course, you should also think about the exterior of your property. Do you prefer a certain style of house, should the house be more modern or more Nordic style? After you have clarified these basic questions and know how you imagine your dream property, you can move on to step 2.

Financial planning – financing options and requirements

The financial planning takes a large part in the path to owning a home, because with construction financing and loans you enter into a large commitment that can span several decades. Accordingly, anyone who is thinking of buying a property should first check their own financial resources. This includes, for example, whether property or a building savings contract is already available and how much it is. Also should be checked which funds can actually be called in the short term. In order to obtain a loan from a bank, it is recommended to have at least 10-20% of the required sum (purchase sum and ancillary purchase costs) as equity capital. The higher the equity, the better.

Of course, personal circumstances also play a role in financial resilience. These include, for example, family planning and the desire to have children, the employment situation of the partners and, of course, marital status. You should consider whether further major financing is planned for the next few years and how this will affect your financial situation. It is also important to determine the permanent expenses in order to be able to include them in the planning. These include fixed costs such as insurance and ancillary costs, but also holidays, car purchases or provisions for financial security.

The next important point is the repayment period, as one should think about how long they want to repay and hence how long they want to be in debt. It is recommended to plan the financing in such a way that the debtors are debt free by the age of 60. However, this also depends on how high the repayment rate can be. The shorter the repayment period, the higher the repayment rate, but there are also slightly cheaper interest rates for shorter loan periods. As a rule of thumb, with a repayment rate of two percent, the repayment period is approximately thirty years.

Once these questions have been clarified, it is time to compile the documents for the banks, because they need many different documents in order to be able to apply for an offer in the first place. Such documents include monthly income, which is evidenced by the income tax assessment, as well as a list of regular expenses and current assets. Also, at this step, they should already have a purchase property and, in the best case, cost estimates, because the more accurate and comprehensive the documents they provide, the faster and better the bank can make an offer. Compare many different offers, from several credit institutions as there can be many differences and they can thus find the best offer for their project.

Search – brokers, patience and ads

There are many different ways to approach the house hunt. Of course, a real estate agent has many advantages, because he accompanies them from start to finish on their search, knows insider tips and can help them with the decision with words and deeds. If you prefer to search on your own, there are many online portals, such as ‘Immonet’ or ‘Immobilienscout24’ where you can view a large selection of properties. Let your friends and acquaintances know that you are looking for a house, because a lot can happen through contacts. When viewing a property, there are a few things you should bear in mind in order to gather as much information as possible about the property. First of all, you should only visit the property during daylight hours, as you will be able to see defects and faults much better than in artificial light. Take a close look at the surrounding area and pay attention to possible noise, smells and the parking situation. The infrastructure around the property should also be explored carefully to compare if it fits their requirements. Talking to the neighbours can also uncover helpful information.

At the property itself, they should pay attention to the condition of the facade, roof and attic, as well as the basement rooms and windows. Water stains on the walls and ceiling, outdated windows with low insulation or a leaking roof can be discovered during these observations. Take pictures and of the property and any faulty areas. Of course, the exposé already tells you a lot about the property, but not all questions will be answered here. Create a list of questions so that you can find out as much as possible about the property during the viewing. Possible questions could be for example the following:

• Do renovations or refurbishments need to be carried out?
• What is the condition of the roof and windows?
• What heating is in the property, how old is it and what insulation does the house have?
• Useful here is always the energy certificate, so ask them explicitly for this.
• The floor plan with drawing of load-bearing walls to be able to plan a possible reconstruction.
• The statement of operating costs
• Check the incidence of light and the cardinal directions, for example, to find out when the sun shines into the garden.
• Ask them the reason for the sale and the duration of the vacancy
• Do fixtures such as kitchen, cupboards, etc. remain in the house and do they have to be taken over?
• Visit different objects to create a selection and to be able to see different offers. In case of uncertainties, such as damp walls, etc., it is better to consult an expert and let him assess the whole.

Legal basics – purchase contract, land register entry & Co.

To buy a house, legal ways must also be followed and many standards must be observed. In order to do this correctly and make the house sale also right some things must be followed.

Lots of helpful tips on the legalities of selling a house!

Notarisation of a purchase contract – the notary helps with land register entry and more

The purchase contract fulfils the standard that according to § 311b BGB a notarial certification must be present if the ownership of a property or rights equivalent to real property is transferred. However, the transfer of ownership is not valid after signing and notarial certification, but only after registration in the land register.
First, a notary drew up a draft contract of sale that should suit both sides. This is fixed some time before signing so that both parties can check it. During the notarization, the notary reads the contract again and both parties can ask questions. The notary also informs about the consequences of the sale of the house and explains the further steps of the transfer of ownership.

Until registration in the land register, the buyer’s claim to the property is secured by the registration of a so-called priority notice of conveyance in the land register. This ensures that the transfer of ownership of the property can be processed safely. The transfer of ownership in the land register is only initiated by the notary when the purchase price has been transferred in full. Likewise, the tax office must confirm with a clearance certificate that the buyer has paid the real estate transfer tax. From which point in time the property is transferred to the buyer, i.e. the “economic transfer” takes place, is also determined in the notary contract. From this point on, the buyer bears all costs and is liable for the property. However, he is not the final owner until the transfer of ownership is complete and his name is entered in the land register.

Transfer of ownership – from seller to buyer

By entering into the purchase agreement, not only does ownership of a property pass to the purchaser, but the purchaser also assumes all risks, taxes and encumbrances associated with ownership of the property. This allows the new owner to do with the property as he or she sees fit. The transfer of possession is precisely defined in terms of date and is completely independent of the new owner’s entry in the land register, i.e. the transfer of ownership.

Building money & costs – what you have to pay when buying a property

After you have decided to buy your dream property, the question of the right financing arises. Here you should inform yourself about all the options, because you will have to live with the decision about financing for the next few years. Especially for inexperienced a real estate purchase is a big step, which is why you should be especially sure that you find the right offer.

Learn more about construction money!

Building money – 6 tips for successful financing

• Tip 1 – Determine your initial situation

  Before you start your search, you should determine your budget and your requirements in detail. This includes the living space, the number of rooms, the construction and equipment, the location, the architecture, the local transport and the distance to important places such as the workplace or schools. Once you are sure of your requirements, clarify your budget. How much equity can you raise? It is also important to determine what your maximum future monthly costs may be and how much you can really afford. To do this, compare your current monthly fixed costs and expenses. Once you’ve created an overview, you’ll have a rough idea of what to look for.

• Tip 2 – Include a redemption payment

  Rent and interest are real costs, but when you make a repayment, the money is used as a kind of installment savings plan. This means your loan debt goes down, but your net worth goes up. So you should also include the repayment you have to make on the loan each month in your calculations. Think of how many years you would like to have the debt paid off in and calculate with that figure. Remember that the rent you pay each month is not an investment in value, while the repayment will still increase your net worth each month.

• Tip 3 – Compare as many offers as possible

  The more listings you request and compare, the more choices you have and the more likely you are to find your dream property. Do not be afraid to search extensively and look at many properties. Search not only on property portals but also in newspaper listings, ask your friends and acquaintances and always keep your eyes open. The effort you put into your search will definitely pay off for you in the long run.

• Tip 4 – Choose long-term financing

  The important thing with long-term financing is that you secure the low interest rates for as long as possible. Preferably for the next 15 years or longer. This guarantees you a solid repayment rate. Depending on the purchase price, use 20% equity or less and choose a classic annuity loan. With this loan, the repayment should be about 2%. If this is higher, your return is also higher in the event of inflation. But if it is lower, you do not meet the certain repayment amount that you need, so that you do not get into trouble with a follow-up financing. If you also take out another loan, such as a subsidy loan, the terms must match, otherwise they can threaten early repayment penalties in the event of a sale.

• Tip 5 – Get multiple financing quotes

  Of course, the easiest and simplest way is to simply take out the loan at the house bank and handle the financing through it. However, there are big differences in the financing offers from different banks. For this reason, you should get at least two different offers, if not more, to find out which bank offers you the fairest and best conditions. Never lose sight of the fact that the loan is for a long term, so an interest saving of 0.2% per year can make a huge difference to you.

• Tip 6 – Do not be afraid of debt

  Going into debt is a big decision, but if you choose a ‘good debt’, you actually gain money in the end. Home finance is one of these ‘good schools’ as you save on housing costs and protect yourself well against inflation. You end up gaining real wealth and not losing any, like investing in consumer goods. For this reason, don’t repay too quickly and stick to an initial repayment of 2% and a term of 15 years. That way, you won’t have to worry about rising interest rates either.

Follow-up loan – debt rescheduling and long-term planning

When financing, it is important that you prove to your bank that you are a future borrower. For borrowers who have already proven for several years that they are able to service the loan according to the contract, banks are happy to offer better conditions. At the beginning of a loan, the monthly installment is usually a large part of interest and only in the course of time, the share of repayment is larger. In a debt restructuring is therefore usually a part of the loan already repaid. For the banks this means that the loan-to-value ratio is lower than with an initial loan and also the consultation effort is lower, because the customers already know how a financing runs and what is expected of them. The bank therefore has less work to do with the customer and therefore the preparation of the offer is easier and takes less time.

So the banks have good reasons to woo debt reschedulers, as you can gain advantages from it. But also for the borrowers a debt restructuring is often more favorable. Depending on the financial market situation, interest rates can be so favourable that it is more worthwhile for you to reschedule an old loan than to continue paying it off at the old conditions. Today, the interest rates are often better than at the time you took out the financing. So if it can be assumed that interest rates will rise in the future, it is quite advisable to choose a long fixed interest rate and to secure good interest rates. Thus, you achieve a rapid adjustment of interest rates in the event of early termination of the old loan.

If you want to do everything right, start thinking today about how they will approach rescheduling your loan in a few years to secure good follow-up financing. These are even more worthwhile doubly if providers take over the costs of the debt rescheduling for the borrower.

Incidental costs – hidden costs when buying real estate

When a purchase contract is signed, the financing is already under wraps. However, the additional costs are often underestimated. The bills from the estate agent, notary, land registry and tax office come as soon as the loan is fixed. This is often set too low because of this. 20% ancillary building costs should be included in the loan at least in addition to the purchase price and are quite realistic. The overview shows the 4 biggest additional costs that you can expect when buying a house.

Fees – Notarisation of the purchase contract

The fees for the notary appointment are probably one of the largest items in the incidental costs of buying a house. Although the notary fees are fixed and may not deviate from them in any direction, they are also quite high. As a rule of thumb, about 1.5% of the purchase price is fixed – and that’s just for signing the purchase contract. So if you buy a property with a purchase price of 100 000 Euro, there are fees for the notary of 1500 Euro, which mostly have to be paid by the buyer. The exact fees for notaries in Germany are set out in the notarial fee schedule, but can also be calculated online.

Taxes – Real estate transfer tax for the tax office

As soon as the contract is signed at the notary and the purchase agreement is notarised, the buyer receives mail from the tax office. Next, the buyer is required to pay the land transfer tax. This tax varies slightly. Normally it amounts to 3.5% of the purchase price of the property in Germany. In some federal states, such as Hamburg, Berlin and Saxony-Anhalt, it is 4.5% of the purchase price. So for a purchase price of, say, 100,000 euros, you will pay another 3500 / 4500 euros for land transfer tax. This debt should be paid immediately, because only when the amount is received by the tax office, this issues the so-called clearance certificate. This is mandatory in order to make the transfer of the new owner in the land register. This is arranged by the land registry and costs fees again, which are comparatively low.

Commission – brokers calculate your share

If you buy a property or a plot of land through an estate agent, you must of course include the agent’s commission in the overall calculation. You will usually receive the invoice from the estate agent directly after the transaction has been recorded by the notary. How high the commission is varies and depends on various factors, such as the region. Usually it varies between four and six percent of the purchase price of the property. With a property purchase price of 100,000 euros, you pay between 4000 and 6000 euros only for the agent. However, it is important to know that it is well worth negotiating the broker’s commission, because this is known to have a large margin. A recommended total commission of 3.48 percent including VAT is a recommendable and realistic value.

Advantages & disadvantages – the purchase of real estate

The purchase of real estate also offers advantages and disadvantages. Depending on the individual life situation, different scenarios offer themselves more or less. However, a house purchase is always a large investment and should be well considered and completely thought through in any case. To help you decide, we list some of the advantages and disadvantages of buying real estate.

Find even more pros and cons to buying real estate!

Advantages: no rent, security and your own four walls

Buying a house can offer many advantages. By buying a house, you live in your own four walls, you are the master of the house and can design it according to his own wishes. In addition, you have no monthly rent that you have to pay and as long as the loan is paid off, there are only monthly utilities. A house also offers a lot of space and, depending on your life situation, plenty of room for family planning and hobbies. In addition, changes can be made in your own house at any time if you want to and you do not have to clarify this with a landlord beforehand. Another advantage is the security for old age, because even if the pension should not be so great, you can continue to live in your home and do not have to move to smaller or cheaper conditions. A house is also a part of the inheritance for the next generation and represents a value investment, because spent rent amounts are lost and cannot be passed on to the children and grandchildren.

Disadvantages: Debt and personal responsibility

The disadvantages of buying a house include, for example, the debt and borrowing that usually accompany it. Likewise, from the moment of purchase, one is responsible for the property and must have repairs, changes, etc. carried out themselves. In addition, they have a lot of space and room, which must also be maintained and thus, for example, work in the garden or cleaning the house and consume time. In addition, with a house they are tied to one location and cannot just move to another city or live abroad for a while, as they are entering into a commitment with the purchase.

House 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.

Overview of house types: from bungalow to country house 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 present the advantages and disadvantages of each house type in the corresponding 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