Rent, buy, live in Gelsenkirchen

Our real estate interview partner specializes in brokering, selling and renting real estate in Gelsenkirchen. We talked to the real estate agent team in an interview about attractive districts, financing options and the Gelsenkirchen real estate market. Here you can learn everything about buying your first home, different types of houses and apartments.

Gelsenkirchen at a glance

Gelsenkirchen from close up:

Rent: Tips on price development

You have decided to rent or even rent a house or apartment? Then you should definitely know more about bedroom furnishing and exclusive terrace design.

Buy: Good yield and districts

Find your new home in attractive districts of Gelsenkirchen such as Erle, Resse or Beckhausen and avoid serious mistakes with your purchase! Find out what you should know before you buy in this article! Are you also interested in cities in NRW? We have selected other interesting cities for you, such as Düsseldorf, Aachen and Duisburg.

Real estate and market in Gelsenkirchen: The interview

In an interview, we got to know a renowned real estate company from Gelsenkirchen better and asked everything about the real estate world. Here you will learn everything from incidental costs to the best investments.

Interview Partner: Schenk Real Estate

FIV: Before we talk about Gelsenkirchen and its real estate market and your recommendations for tenants and buyers, we would like to know a little more about your agency Immobilien Schenk. Could you briefly summarize for our readers what your agency does and what you specialize in?

Thorsten Schenk: We mediate any type of residential real estate such as condominiums, houses, apartment buildings and land. Here we purchase and letting made. In addition then still objects on the favorite island of the Germans Mallorca come. Of course we also mediate commercial properties. As a further service we offer the mediation of notaries, lawyers, financing and craftsmen. Also we have now care real estate and micro apartments in the offer.

FIV: As a real estate agent in Gelsenkirchen, which properties do you personally prefer to broker?

Thorsten Schenk: The company Immobilien Schenk prefers to broker residential properties of any kind. Commercial properties of any kind are also interesting, because they are always different and you always see new facilities and buildings.

Gelsenkirchen district:

Districts with a future: Buer, Sutum & Resse

FIV: Neighborhoods for Singles, Families & Co. – For those who do not yet live in Gelsenkirchen and want to move to Gelsenkirchen, which neighborhoods have a future? Where should you move to in Gelsenkirchen if you want to live nicely?

Thorsten Schenk: The most popular districts are in the north of Gelsenkirchen with the districts of Buer, Resse, Resser-Mark, Erle and also still Sutum. But there are also very nice places to live throughout the city.

Buer is a popular district in Gelsenkirchen:

Market prices Gelsenkirchen: The development

FIV: Rents are a big topic, all over Germany. How has the real estate market and rents in Gelsenkirchen developed in recent years and how will they develop in the future?

Thorsten Schenk: There are many older properties in Gelsenkirchen and they need to be renovated. This means that rents could also be adjusted. Many investors are currently coming to the Ruhr region to buy properties, because there are no more properties to buy cheaply in the big cities.

Rent or buy? Broker assessment

FIV: In Germany, more people rent than buy. What would you recommend to a young couple or even a single person, renting or buying in Gelsenkirchen?

Thorsten Schenk: It always depends on where you personally see yourself in old age. I know many people who see their retirement home abroad. And of course it also depends on income. But in general, property is a good choice.

Real estate agent Thorsten Schenk:

Beginner mistakes when buying real estate

FIV: Anyone who rents in Gelsenkirchen is relatively flexible and can move if necessary. Anyone who buys a property, whether a home or a condominium, is at least tied to the property for the long term by the loan or financing. What are typical first-time buyer mistakes from your experience as a real estate agent and how can you avoid them?

Thorsten Schenk: With many first-time buyers, you simply don’t really see the monthly burden and the additional costs for managing the property. In addition, the entry prices are too high today because people want to have a property at all costs.

Taxes and incidental expenses incurred

FIV: The purchase price of a property is one thing, but what ancillary costs and taxes must buyers in Gelsenkirchen expect?

Thorsten Schenk: In NRW we have 6.5% land transfer tax, for the notary you can add a good 2% and then the brokerage fee. Depending on the property and the broker, this is between 2.5% and 5% plus VAT.

Incidental costs in NRW:

• Real estate transfer tax: 6.5%
• Notary: 2%
• Depending on object/broker 2.5% to 5%

Capital investment Gelsenkirchen: Buy and rent

FIV: Gelsenkirchen neighborhoods for real estate investment – Let’s move on to real estate as an investment in Gelsenkirchen, for those who want to buy and rent. If our*r Leser*in decides for the purchase, with following letting: Which 2 districts or even satelites around Gelsenkirchen, would you recommend to a buyer for their capital investment in Gelsenkirchen? In your opinion as an expert, where do the most future opportunities lie?

Thorsten Schenk: The districts in the north with Buer, Erle and Resse certainly have the best potential.

Living room in a single-family house in Gelsenkirchen:

Investment in conversion and expansion of old building

FIV: In your opinion, what type of real estate has a future in Gelsenkirchen, what should one invest in? Small, large, existing, new construction?

Thorsten Schenk: In my opinion, the conversion and expansion of old buildings have the greatest potential in Gelsenkirchen because of the purchasing power. I would also say smaller single-family homes with gardens.

Typical mistakes when buying a property

FIV: Finally, one more question: You had mentioned the typical mistakes buying a property. Many buy, but some also want to sell. As an experienced real estate agent in Gelsenkirchen, what tips can you give to those who are selling a property for the first time? What are the first steps and how do you successfuly sell a property in Gelsenkirchen?

Thorsten Schenk: You have to know the local conditions in the Ruhr area and understand the language of the Ruhrpott.

Thanks to Thorsten Schenk for the interview!

Rent, buy, live in Gelsenkirchen

The real estate market in Gelsenkirchen is large and for this reason it is important to find the best real estate agent for you. In our overview you will find the 10 best real estate agents from Gelsenkirchen, who can make your dream of your property possible.

• Real estate agent Gelsenkirchen

First apartment? Step by step to capital investment

As soon as you move into your first own apartment, for most people it’s rent, rent, rent. Every month you go to work for many hours in order to spend most of it on the next rent due at the beginning of the month. It’s no wonder that many young people are considering buying a condominium as soon as possible.

• Buy first apartment

Rent, buy, live in Nuremberg

Our interview partner, has specialized in brokering, selling and renting real estate in Nuremberg and the surrounding area. In an interview we talked about attractive districts, financing options and the current real estate market. Here you can learn everything about the first apartment purchase, different types of houses and types of apartments.

Overview of Nuremberg and surrounding cities:

Nuremberg from close up:

Rentals: Service charges

You have decided to rent or even rent a house or apartment? Then you should definitely know more about bedroom furnishing and exclusive terrace design.

Buy: Investment

Find your new home in attractive districts of Nuremberg and avoid serious mistakes in your purchase! Find out what you should know before you buy in this article! Are you also interested in other cities? We have selected other interesting cities for you, such as Düsseldorf, Aachen and Munich.

Interview about the Nuremberg real estate market

Are you looking for a suitable property in Nuremberg? But are you wondering which are the most popular districts to live in, whether it is better to rent or to buy, or how high the ancillary costs and taxes are in Nuremberg? Then you have come to the right place. Because we have talked to a real estate agent who will answer all your questions about real estate in Nuremberg.

Real estate agent Christian Reinhart – The company in Nuremberg

FIV: Before we go into Nuremberg and its real estate market and your recommendations for tenants and buyers, we would like to know a little more about your agency Immobilienmakler Reinhart. Could you briefly summarize for our readers what your agency does and what you specialize in?

C. Reinhart: As a real estate agent’s office, our focus is on the sale and rental of residential real estate. I.e. we mediate inventory real estates such as free-hold apartments and houses to capital investors and owner-occupiers. Our specialty is the sale of multi-family houses to investors, which we often broker “offmarket”, i.e. without public advertising, due to our good network.

Surroundings in Nuremberg:

FIV: As an agent in Nuremberg, which properties do you personally prefer to broker?

C. Reinhart: Every property is unique and is valued equally by us. However, we prefer to find new homes for young families.

Neighborhoods with a future in Nuremberg

FIV: Neighborhoods for Singles, Families & Co. – For those who don’t live in Nuremberg yet and want to move to Nuremberg, which neighborhoods have a future? Where should you move to in Nuremberg if you want to live nicely?

C. Reinhart: Beyond the typical preferred residential areas such as Erlenstegen, Zabo, Johannis or the old town: Gostenhof in particular is a great residential area for young people with a lot of potential.

Gostenhof district:

Development of real estate prices

FIV: Rents are a big topic, all over Germany. How has the real estate market and rental prices in Nuremberg developed in recent years and how will they develop in the future?

C. Reinhart: Both rents and purchase prices for residential real estate have risen significantly in recent years. This trend is unbroken, but in the medium term we expect prices to stabilize at a high level or fall slightly. Above all, the many attractive new construction projects of recent years should contribute to this.

Dining room area in a loft:

FIV: In Germany, more people rent than buy. What would you recommend to a young couple or even a single person, renting or buying in Nuremberg?

C. Reinhart: If it is financially feasible to buy a property, we would prefer this option to renting. Of course, this always depends on the individual situation and also on whether a suitable property in the desired location is available for purchase at all.

Avoid typical first-time buyer mistakes

FIV: Anyone who rents in Nuremberg is relatively flexible and can move if necessary. Anyone who buys a property, whether a home or a condominium, is tied to the property for the long term at least by the loan or financing. What are typical first-time buyer mistakes from your experience as a real estate agent and how can you avoid them?

C. Reinhart: A typical mistake when buying for the first time is to compromise on location. I.e. it is better to pay “too much” for the right property than to buy a “bargain” in a bad location that does not fit in the long run. A somewhat too high purchase price is soon compensated. A problematic location, e.g. on a main road, cannot be corrected without further ado.

Taxes and incidental expenses incurred

FIV: The purchase price of a property is one thing, but what ancillary costs and taxes must buyers in Nuremberg expect?

C. Reinhart: The ancillary purchase costs are usually around 8-10% of the purchase price. These consist of the property tax of 3.5% levied in Bavaria. Notary costs of 1.5% and broker commission of 3.5% together.

Incidental expenses:

• Total 8-10% from the purchase price
• 3.5% Property tax
• 1.5% Notary fees
• 3.5% brokerage commission

Here you can see a bedroom:

Real estate as an investment: safeguarding the future

FIV: Nuremberg districts for real estate investment – we come still to real estates as capital investment in Nuremberg, for those, which want to buy and let. If our*r Leser*in for the purchase, with following letting, decides: Which 2 districts or satellites around Nuremberg would you recommend to a buyer for their capital investment in Nuremberg? In your opinion as an expert, where do the most future opportunities lie?

C. Reinhart: The preferred 1a location for capital investors is Nuremberg’s Old Town with the Sebald and Lorenz districts. Due to the high tourist attractiveness and the good mix and the large offer of shopping facilities, events, gastronomy and great residential locations, top prices are also achieved here. This contributes to an increase in value and value retention. Otherwise, many other Nuremberg residential locations offer attractive opportunities for capital investors. Particular future opportunities are attributed to districts such as Johannis and Gostenhof.

Attractive districts in Nuremberg:

• Sebald
• Lorenz
• St. John’s
• Gostenhof

Sebald district:

Real estate with the most future opportunities

FIV: In your opinion, what type of real estate has a future in Nuremberg, what should one invest in? Small, large, existing, new construction?

C. Reinhart: Nuremberg offers attractive opportunities for capital investors in all real estate categories. However, as a student city and tourist magnet, we would like to highlight small residential units such as apartments and 1-room apartments here as particularly attractive for capital investors.

FIV: Finally, one more question: You had mentioned the typical mistakes buying a property. Many buy, but some also want to sell. As an experienced real estate agent in Nuremberg, what tips can you give to those who are selling a property for the first time? What are the first steps and how do you successfuly sell a property in Nuremberg?

C. Reinhart: The central basis for a successful real estate sale is professional market pricing.

If the price is set too high, the property is “burned” on the market. If the price is too low sellers give away money

Here, a competent real estate agent with expertise and market knowledge is the ideal partner for owners to bring together the interests of the parties involved from the price setting to the successful notary appointment.

Rent, buy, live in Nuremberg

The real estate market in Nuremberg is large and for this reason it is important to find the best real estate agent for you. In our overview you will find the best real estate agents from Nuremberg, who can make your dream of your property possible.

• Real estate agent Nuremberg

First apartment? Step by step to capital investment

Buy your own apartment – As soon as you move into your first own apartment, for most people it’s rent, rent, rent. Every month you go to work many hours, to spend the largest part ultimately for the next rent due at the beginning of the month. It’s no wonder that many young people are considering buying a condominium as soon as possible.

• Buy first apartment

Rent, buy, live in Leipzig

The optimal entry into the real estate world is the purchase of the first condominium. Our interview partner specializes in the brokerage, sale and rental of real estate in Leipzig. For this very reason, we talked about attractive districts, financing options and the Leipzig real estate market in an interview. Here you can learn everything about buying your first apartment, different types of houses and types of apartments.

Here you can see Leipzig at a glance:

Leipzig up close:

Rent: Contract & Settlement

After the successful purchase of the property and the execution of the purchase contract, you will naturally want to furnish your freshly acquired property according to its individual needs. Then you should definitely know more about bedroom furnishing and beautiful terrace design. Home is where you feel comfortable!

Purchase: Borrow

Find your new home in attractive neighborhoods of Leipzig like Connewitz, Bachviertel and Graphisches Viertel. Are you also interested in other cities in Germany? We have selected other interesting cities for you, such as Dresden, Cologne and Halle-Saale.

Real Estate Interview in Leipzig

The real estate market in Leipzig is large and complex. It is easy to lose track of the current market prices and the selection of offers. It is important to know the basic facts in order to avoid serious mistakes when buying real estate and, above all, to save a lot of money. For this very reason, we spoke with a real estate agent from Leipzig, who reveals everything about property taxes, ancillary costs, popular districts and the most effective capital investments.

Interview partner Ic Immoconsult

FIV: Before we go into Leipzig and its real estate market and your recommendations for tenants and buyers, we would like to know a little more about your agency Ic Immoconsult. Could you briefly summarize for our readers what your agency does and what you specialize in?

Ron Kaufmann: I founded IC Immoconsult e. K. in 2009. I am a native of Leipzig, a child of the GDR, so to speak. However, I have been in the real estate business since 1996. From this time I have business and friendly contacts until today, which is remarkable in any case. The resulting field of trust is a building block of success. Likewise, since the beginning we have received super ratings in Google and the real estate portals for our work, or for the properties. That is also a building block. And we are only successful when we have brought together satisfied landlords / sellers and satisfied tenants / buyers.

Real estate orders and target work

Ron Kaufmann: We originally came from the rental of apartments and commercial space and then had more sales transactions after the real estate crisis from around 2008. It must be clearly stated that we also enjoy renting very much, even if sales are of course more lucrative in terms of turnover. But the fun at the job stands for us in the 1st place. That is the backbone of good and goal-oriented work. In the end, we have no special preferences of the property. We look at each real estate order and develop with the client an agenda to the property.

Apartment building in Leipzig:

FIV: As an agent in Leipzig, which properties do you personally prefer to broker?

Ron Kaufmann: As described above, it’s also fun to broker difficult properties. After all, everyone can rent and sell the “raisins”, right? So there is no such thing as a favorite property.

District: A-location, student corner & center

FIV: Neighborhoods for Singles, Families & Co. – For those who do not yet live in Leipzig and want to move to Leipzig, which neighborhoods have a future? Where should you move to in Leipzig if you want to live nicely?

Ron Kaufmann: Let me put it this way – there are not really bad and good locations, since Leipzig’s districts are clustered around the manageable center. Of course, there are AAA locations, student corners, commercial locations ect. In 2022 it is generally hard to get a dream apartment (whether renting or buying) in your dream location. Also the gap between rent and yield is widening in the meantime. So that it must be looked then rather, what gives the purse or the bank.

The “roasted pigeons” have not been flying around in Leipzig for a long time. Thanks to many project and neighborhood developments, even peripheral areas and the “Speckgürtel” of Leipzig have potential. All of them now have all the prerequisites for the private and social sectors.

FIV: Rents are a big topic, all over Germany. How has the real estate market and rental prices in Leipzig developed in recent years and how will they develop in the future?

Ron Kaufmann: On average, rents will rise if you only consider development costs and construction prices, among other things. In addition, of course, there are political decisions that regulate, among other things, the labor market, financing, etc.. But Leipzig also has a very good reputation and life here is also very pleasant for many “foreigners”.

Fitted kitchen in a single-family house in Leipzig:

Rent or buy? Broker assessment

FIV: In Germany, more people rent than buy. What would you recommend to a young couple or even a single person, renting or buying in Leipzig?

Ron Kaufmann: Owning a property as an investment or for personal use is not the wrong decision. A young person, of course, has an easier time with repayment than someone buying in their late 40s. But there are always third parties (bank, property location and property equipment, sense of use, equity) that play a role in what is possible and what is not.

First time buyer errors and experiences

FIV: Anyone who rents in Leipzig is relatively flexible and can move if necessary. Anyone who buys a property, whether a home or a condominium, is at least tied to the property for the long term by the loan or financing. What are typical first-time buyer mistakes from your experience as a real estate agent and how can you avoid them?

Ron Kaufmann: If you no longer want to use the property yourself, you can also rent it out in Leipzig so that the tenant covers the ideal loan installment. What now first-time buyer errors are exactly, I do not know so. If the buyer asks the real estate agent in advance and the buyer also informs himself somewhat in advance, few mistakes can occur.

Taxes and ancillary costs: What should you expect?

FIV: The purchase price of a property is one thing, but what ancillary costs and taxes must buyers in Leipzig expect?

Ron Kaufmann: Things are still looking good, since the real estate transfer tax is still 3.5% of the sales amount in Saxony. In other federal states this goes up to 6%. The notary should be about 1.8% of the purchase price. There I can speak only for Leipzig. And the brokerage costs. This can be differentiated by the type of property.

Incidental expenses:

• Real estate transfer tax: 3.5%
• Notary fees: 1.8%
• Brokerage costs: Individual according to property type

Real estate as an investment: Best location

FIV: Leipzig districts for real estate investment – we come still to real estates as capital investment in Leipzig, for those, which want to buy and let. If our*r Leser*in for the purchase, with following letting, decides: Which 2 districts or satellites around Leipzig would you recommend to a buyer for their capital investment in Leipzig? In your opinion as an expert, where do the most future opportunities lie?

Ron Kaufmann: There is no bad situation in Leipzig. There is demand everywhere from every social class. The better the floor plan and furnishings (e.g. also when renovated after second occupancy), the better the rent, but also the purchase price.

Here you can see an office building:

Real estate and its future opportunities

FIV: In your opinion, what type of real estate has a future in Leipzig, what should one invest in? Small, large, existing, new construction?

Ron Kaufmann: That depends on the financing possibilities of the buyer. If he pays 20,000 € monthly negative interest, he should buy a multi-family house ect. Buy the parents for their child a dwelling, which studies in Leipzig, there the situation to the university must be perhaps good. The next wants to buy cheap, high-quality renovate and “develop” the rent. The approaches are different each time and not comparable.

But in general, out-of-towners want to live in a renovated apartment in an old building, because they don’t know it from their old place of residence. Newly built apartments usually have underground parking spaces underneath. This is also a decisive factor for many people. That’s why Goethe (Leipzig is my Little Paris) and Schiller already felt at home here.

Safe real estate purchase: avoid mistakes

FIV: Lastly, one more question – you had mentioned the typical mistakes buying a property. Many buy, but some also want to sell. As an experienced broker in Leipzig, what tips can you give to those who are selling a property for the first time? What are the first steps and how to sell a property in Leipzig successfuly?

Ron Kaufmann: Find a broker you can trust. The buyer should already have an idea of the selling price. A broker is more of a price enforcer on the sales market. And getting to know each other personally on the phone is the first step. Before that, the seller should read up a bit on the broker and check his Internet presence.

A market and sales strategy is found when we know the key facts.

Rent, buy, live in Leipzig

The real estate market in Leipzig is large and for this reason it is important to find the best real estate agent for you. In our overview you will find the 10 best real estate agents from Leipzig, which can make your dream of your property possible.

• Broker Leipzig

First apartment? Step by step to capital investment

Buy your own apartment – As soon as you move into your first own apartment, for most people it’s rent, rent, rent. Every month you go to work many hours, to spend the largest part ultimately for the next rent due at the beginning of the month. It’s no wonder that many young people are considering buying a condominium as soon as possible.

• Buy first apartment

Rent, buy, live in Leipzig

Our interview partner, has specialized in the mediation, selling and renting of real estate in Leipzig and the surrounding area. We have talked with the real estate agent from Leipzig in an interview about attractive districts, financing options and the current real estate market. Here you can learn everything about the first apartment purchase, different types of houses and types of apartments.

Here you can see Leipzig at a glance:

Leipzig up close:

Rent: Tips on price development

You have decided to rent or even rent a house or apartment? Then you should definitely know more about bedroom furnishing and exclusive terrace design.

Buy: Good yield and districts

Find your new home in attractive districts of Leipzig such as Plagwitz, Connewitz or Gholis and avoid serious mistakes with your purchase! Find out what you should know before you buy in this article! Are you also interested in cities in NRW? We have selected other interesting cities for you, such as Frankfurt, Munich and Düsseldorf.

Interview about the Leipzig real estate market

In an interview, we got to know a Leipzig real estate company better and asked everything about the real estate world. Here you can find out everything from incidental purchase costs to the best capital investments.

Interview Partner: Home Real Estate

FIV: Before we go into Leipzig and its real estate market and your recommendations for tenants and buyers, we would like to know a little more about your agency “Nach Hause Immobilien”. Could you briefly summarize for our readers what your agency does and what you specialize in?

Daniela Kasch: The vision of our real estate agents is to give the real estate industry a righteous and human face. The purchase and also the sales of a real estate are finally very special and for the most part also very emotional life moments. Our founder, Daniela Kasch, herself comes from a management consulting background and today, as a certified appraiser and business economist, can count herself among the most popular real estate agents in the city with a team of five outstanding female brokers.

Due to her membership in the BNI – Business Network International – a professional association of regional business people, Daniela Kasch has an extensive network throughout Germany and is in constant exchange with financing specialists, architects and appraiser colleagues about the real estate market. A real estate sale is characterized by memories and the course towards new goals.

We accompany and support on this exciting journey, with know-how, many years of experience, empathy and personality from the first thought to the joyful toast after the notary appointment. Since 2010, Nach Hause Immobilien GmbH & Co KG has accompanied the purchase and sale of real estate in the Leipzig area and our entire team is aware that sellers and buyers place great trust in us.

It is not only our mission to achieve the best possible price in the shortest possible time, but also to find a worthy successor for the properties that have often been the living space of our clients for years. In recent years, we have been able to reunite hundreds of properties with new residents or users. We focus mainly on the areas of single-family homes, condominiums and apartment buildings.

Mediation of trendy real estate

FIV: As an agent in Leipzig, which properties do you personally prefer to broker?

Daniela Kasch: The sale of real estate should be carefree and, above all, a pleasure – that is our claim for every owner who wants to part with his property. The more trusting and attentive the cooperation is, the more motivation there is to market the property. Properties where personal stories have been written, divorce properties, historic estates and older estate houses not only demand our mediation talent, but also our marketing know-how.

Also for this reason, these properties are welcome orders in our brokerage office. When selling rented and non-rented condominiums, we carefully consider whether the prospective buyers are owner-occupiers or capital investors. For owner-occupants it is more convenient if the condominiums they wish to purchase are not rented.

In this way, one avoids the notice of owner-occupancy and does not leave behind any worried tenants at the viewings. If the prospective buyers are capital investors, it is of course an easier process if the apartments are already rented. This way, the capital investor can count on secure rental income from day one.

Leipzig old building apartment:

Future districts: Schleußig, Leutzsch & Connewitz

FIV: Neighborhoods for Singles, Families & Co. – For those who do not yet live in Leipzig and want to move to Leipzig, which neighborhoods have a future? Where should you move to in Leipzig if you want to live nicely?

Daniela Kasch: Gentrifying and popular neighborhoods for young people, singles and the like in Leipzig are the trendy Südvorstadt district, the hot spot Connewitz, the creative Plagwitz district, Schleußig and the attractive neighborhoods around Leipzig’s Clara Zetkin Park. Families with children are more likely to be drawn to picturesque Gohlis, the quiet garden suburb of Marienbrunn, or Leutzsch, Böhlitz Ehrenberg and Knautkleeberg for the nature lovers among our shoppers. The peripheral areas close to the city are also currently in particularly high demand, as it still seems financially possible for young families to purchase here, or at least there is hope of an affordable purchase price.

Live beautifuly in:

• Connewitz
• Plagwitz
• Schleußig
• Clara Zetkin Park
• Gohlis
• Marienbrunn
• Leutzsch
• Böhlitz-Ehrenberg
• Knautkleeberg

Marienbrunn district

On our homepage, we have created location descriptions for the advantages and flaws of the corresponding residential locations. In our real estate exposés you can also find out what makes the property and its surroundings so special. For each real estate offer the prospective customer receives an extensive documentation. From technical documents to evidence of ownership and ancillary costs, there is a digital file that gives prospective buyers a precise insight into the property details.

We generally recommend to our prospective buyers that the financing of the property is already clarified before the viewing, in order to be able to prove this in writing at the viewing, if possible. For this purpose we have prepared a guideline for our prospective buyers, so that also here – at least organizationally – nothing can go wrong. So they are then in a position to make a speedy decision when their gut feeling is also right. The probability of being outbid by other numerous competitors is quite low in this case.

Rental price development in the Leipzig area

FIV: Rents are a big topic, all over Germany. How has the real estate market and rental prices in Leipzig developed in recent years and how will they develop in the future?

Daniela Kasch: Leipzig’s housing market can be described as dynamic, but compared with cities such as Berlin or Munich, rental and purchase prices in the trade fair metropolis have risen rather moderately. Currently, the prospects are uncertain, some discourage based on the population growth of recent years with impending housing shortages and unaffordable rents, others predict that the many new construction projects could lead to new vacancies.

The average rent in Leipzig in 2019 was between €5.50/m² and €7.00/m². These figures reflect existing rents and asking rents. Existing rents relate to actual rents for existing tenancies and asking rents are the rents at which apartments are offered on the internet or in other media. In order to assess the market development in Leipzig correctly, some basic considerations would have to be made first.

To put it simply, it is important to remember that the housing market is made up of supply and demand, as well as other key indicators. Since supply does not currently match demand, it is not possible to speak of a balanced housing market. This tight market is therefore characterized by rising rents. In Leipzig, demand has developed more dynamically in recent years than in any other city.

Apartments built in prefabricated slab construction still have rents below the citywide average, while rents in refurbished old and new buildings are above average. Thus, in this level today one can rather expect apartment offers with a rent of 8.50 €/m² to 10.00 €/m².

Rent prices in comparison:

• 2019: 5,50 € to 7,00 € per m²
• 2022: 8,50 € to 10,00 € per m²

Luxurious family house:

Broker recommendation: Rent or buy?

FIV: In Germany, people rent more than they buy. What would you recommend to a young couple or even a single person, renting or buying in Leipzig?

Daniela Kasch: Germany has always been considered a country of renters, as the data from the Federal Statistical Office show. About 50% of real estate is occupied for rent, and there are historical reasons for this. Today the restraint is owed to the fact that living became more expensive, thus many city dwellers simply cannot afford their own real estate. Many factors make it difficult to buy real estate. Since the corporate purpose of Nach Hause Immobilien is the sale of real estate, we are biased on this issue, because we generally recommend buying.

Whether renting or buying is the better recommendation depends not only on age but above all on what one’s own life plans envisage.

We would like to advise young families to buy real estate, because the old adage “material value beats monetary value” still holds true today. Older people, on the other hand, we recommend renting an apartment after selling real estate, because what was not a problem in the past can cloud the joy of owning your own little house in old age. The garden is more work than fun. The children’s rooms have been unused for years. The stairs to the upper floor are becoming more and more arduous. Perhaps the time has come to put down new roots, sell the cottage, become financially independent and start the fourth phase of life carefree with a comfortable, barrier-free apartment.

Typical first-time buyer mistakes: tips & experiences

FIV: Anyone who rents in Leipzig is relatively flexible and can move if necessary. Anyone who buys a property, whether a home or a condominium, is at least tied to the property for the long term by the loan or financing. What are typical first-time buyer mistakes from your experience as a real estate agent and how can you avoid them?

Daniela Kasch: Anyone buying real estate for the first time faces many questions. It is therefore useful to prepare well in advance in order to carry out the real estate purchase safely and without risks. We support our buyers in their preparation. And so that they can plan reliably, we have developed a guide on how the real estate purchase will be successful. And for this, first of all, it is absolutely necessary that the prospective buyers bring all the people who are important for their decision making to the viewing appointment.

In this way, they are able to clarify the points that are open to you and can make an unhindered and binding decision. The right financing advice is what counts: The most important stage to the purchase of the property is the financing concept, because today we conduct viewings only with those interested parties who have clarified the financing of the property and can prove this in writing. A common mistake made by first-time buyers is the assumption that they need to have seen the property before they talk to a financing advisor.

Bedroom in Leipzig apartment:

Now put yourself in the seller’s position: Why should the owner of the offered property let you into his house if he doesn’t even know whether you can afford this property at all. Also the purchase from private holds high risks. Here saving can become then correctly expensive. Simply put, two beginners meet each other here.

Our prospective buyers can avoid the most common beginner’s mistakes by hiring an experienced real estate agent for the purchase, who supports and guides them, procures all documents for their financing bank, prepares an informative exposé for them, explains a purchase contract, checks floor plans and living spaces, takes over their dealings with the authorities, determines the market price, negotiates with the seller, points out critical areas to them and recommends the property to them without hesitation. Because buying real estate is not “without”.

Service charges & taxes: You have to reckon with that!

FIV: The purchase price of a property is one thing, but what ancillary costs and taxes must buyers in Leipzig expect?

Daniela Kasch: Incidental purchase costs are incurred with every real estate purchase. In addition to the purchase price, buyers of a property must factor in incidental costs of around 10 to 12 percent, because different rules may apply in each federal state and different brokerage commissions may apply depending on the type of property. For example, if a single-family home is offered by a real estate agent, a brokerage commission of 7.14 percent of the purchase price is due.

Since the end of December 2020, in accordance with the new commission law, the buyer and seller share this brokerage commission, so that the purchaser of this single-family house must calculate a brokerage fee of 3.57 percent. The next cost item is for the notarization of the purchase contract and the entry in the land register. These fees amount to around 2 percent of the purchase price. The last cost item to be mentioned is the land transfer tax (GrESt). The amount varies between 3.5 and 6.5 percent depending on the federal state and is currently 3.5 percent in Saxony.

Incidental expenses:

• Commission 7,14 % of the purchase price
• Notary + land register 2 %
• Real estate transfer tax 3.5
• Total 10-12 % Incidental costs

Real estate as an investment

FIV: Leipzig districts for real estate investment – we come still to real estates as capital investment in Leipzig, for those, which want to buy and let. If our*r Leser*in for the purchase, with following letting, decides: Which 2 districts or satellites around Leipzig would you recommend to a buyer for their capital investment in Leipzig? In your opinion as an expert, where do the most future opportunities lie?

Daniela Kasch: In our opinion, investors will find the most future opportunities in the outskirts of the city, because this is where the greatest development potential lies and purchase prices have not yet been exhausted in the peripheral areas. Popular peripheral areas are, for example, Markkleeberg, Markranstädt or also Großpösna and Taucha. However, if you have the opportunity to purchase a property in districts such as Schleußig or Plagwitz at a moderate purchase price, then you should strike here.

Popular fringe areas:

• Markkleeberg
• Markranstädt
• Großpösna
• Taucha
• Schleußig
• Plagwitz

Markranstädt at a glance:

Schleußig district:

These two districts are very popular with families due to their proximity to the city center, the direct water connection to the river “Weiße Elster” and their proximity to the Clara Zetkin Park. Due to the fact that there are many families with children in these two districts, living space is always needed and also sought in this area.

Real estate with a future: listed properties, apartments & student housing

FIV: In your opinion, what type of real estate has a future in Leipzig, what should one invest in? Small, large, existing, new construction?

Daniela Kasch: As a native of Leipzig, I have to say that Leipzig as a real estate location is in principle a location with a future. (Laughing face) Nevertheless, this question cannot be answered simply in one sentence, because it is important to ask which type of real estate best suits the investor. Here one must discuss exactly what the ideas and goals of the real estate buyer are.

For example, does the investor have a very high taxable income? In this case, an investment in a listed property can make sense in order to reduce the annual tax burden. Investments in listed properties are very popular anyway because, in addition to the depreciation on listed buildings, they are often also subsidized by the KfW Bank. Another point is, for example, the question of the target tenant group.

Many investors like to buy 2-room apartments, preferably as apartments, equipped with a fitted kitchen. Leipzig is a student city, so such an investment can always make sense. Of course, always provided that the return is right.

Broker tips & first steps

FIV: Finally, one more question: You mentioned the typical buying mistakes of a property. Many buy, but some also want to sell. As an experienced broker in Leipzig, what tips can you give to those who are selling a property for the first time? What are the first steps and how do you successfuly sell a property in Leipzig?

Daniela Kasch: At least once in a lifetime, the moment comes when the previous home no longer fits. Whether it has become too big or too small, the family situation has changed or a move to another city is pending – in any case, we are familiar with these situations and accompany the change to the new four walls in a particularly uncomplicated and charming way. Above all, we ensure that no mistake is made in this situation when selling the property.

Kitchen with dining room area:

We find the fairest price for the property and with a few adjusting screws we can still optimize the price. For example, it sometimes makes sense to spruce up the property with a light renovation or to present the property to potential buyers for viewing in a particularly homely ambience with borrowed furniture – so-called “home staging”. Even if a marriage or relationship breaks down, the joint home does not have to become a cost trap, but should provide both parties with a good financial cushion for a new start.

As trained mediators, we brokers circumnavigate every war of the roses and always keep the greatest benefit for all in focus. We organize flyers, direct mailing, marketing in internet portals, presentation on our homepage and in print media. Your property has now generated a lot of attention. Now it is time to separate the wheat from the chaff among the interested parties. Only a suitable preselection comes to the viewings, in order to spare you the “inspection tourists” in your four walls.

We negotiate with buyers according to your specifications – something that also needs to be learned. The most promising prospective buyers are subjected to a credit check, so the owners are spared the unpleasant question about the financial framework of the possible buyers. It is often helpful to also offer the potential buyers healthy financing, so that the sellers can get their money without complications.

With the notarization of the purchase contract at the notary, the purchase is bindingly completed. And even after that, we are still at your side, e.g. when you move into your new dream property.

In conclusion, the sale of a property follows a well-planned strategy.

At every stage of this process, you have both the professional experience and the passion for the property at your side with the female brokers. Each phase is planned and carried out with the necessary care and the possible speed, so that for the owners the sale of your property is not a stressful feat, but the most exciting business of your life.

Many thanks to Daniela Kasch for the interview!

Rent, buy, live in Leipzig

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First apartment? Step by step to capital investment

As soon as you move into your first own apartment, for most people it’s rent, rent, rent. Every month you go to work for many hours in order to spend most of it on the next rent due at the beginning of the month. It’s no wonder that many young people are considering buying a condominium as soon as possible.

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Rent, buy, live in Potsdam

Our interview partner, has specialized in brokering, selling and renting real estate in Potsdam and the surrounding area. In an interview we talked about attractive districts, financing options and the current real estate market. Here you can learn everything about the first apartment purchase, different types of houses and types of apartments.

Potsdam at a glance:

Potsdam from close up:

Rentals: Service charges

You have decided to rent or even lease a house or apartment in Potsdam? Then you should definitely know more about bedroom furnishing and exclusive terrace design.

Buy: Investment

Find your new home in attractive neighborhoods of Potsdam and avoid serious mistakes in your purchase! Find out what you should know before you buy in this article! Are you also interested in other cities? We have selected other interesting cities for you, such as Düsseldorf, Aachen and Duisburg.

Interview – All about the Potsdam real estate market

Are you looking for a suitable property in Potsdam? But are you wondering which are the most popular districts to live in, whether it is better to rent or to buy, or how high the ancillary costs and taxes are in Potsdam? Then you have come to the right place. Because we have talked to a real estate agent who will answer all your questions about real estate in Potsdam.

Sebastian Wicke: Real estate agent interview

FIV: Before we talk about Potsdam and its real estate market and your recommendations for tenants and buyers, we would like to know a little more about your agency WS Immoconsult Wicke. Could you briefly summarize for our readers what your agency does and what you specialize in?

Sebastian Wicke: For more than 22 years I have been working nationwide on topics related to all kinds of real estate, but I once started in the construction and commercial real estate sector. Already after few years residential real estates came in addition and meanwhile we understand ourselves not only as local brokers for Berlin and Brandenburg, but as competent real estate professional with country wide cross-linking around our customers with each inquiry optimally to further-help to be able.

Our customers appreciate our obliging and above all fast as well as qualified acting. In essence, we live from our good reputation and the recommendations of satisfied customers for Potsdam and also our Berlin business. Our range of services is extensive and regularly adapts to current requirements – so we have also been serving the now booming market with furnished properties, the “temporary living”, for years now.

Our focus services include, of course, the classics such as:

Sale and rental of real estate of various types, whether residential or commercial, both new and existing, whether investment or owner-occupied.

Of course, we also master the discreet sale on request and also carry out larger off-market transactions in the sale of apartment buildings. We are pleased with our large customer base with search profiles of all kinds, which is very helpful and pleasant in this regard. The customer is still king for us – we therefore make a point of being available on weekends or in the evening, when there is simply more time and peace of mind, just as it is needed.

As a rule, our customers are busy with their own jobs during the week and have neither the time nor the nerves for appointments during the week or in the evening. If the property is then in the dark, it is also less fun to get a good first look. In addition, often the partner or the family also want to take a look at the object of desire, and then decide together. For this reason, we and our team are often on the road on Saturday or Sunday.

Single-family house in Potsdam:

Popular real estate in Potsdam

FIV: As a real estate agent in Potsdam, which properties do you personally prefer to broker?

Sebastian Wicke: Of course we enjoy every project, because no two properties and no two clients are the same and there are always individual tasks and “matches” of buyers and sellers or landlords and tenants waiting for us. We never stop learning, which makes it all the more exciting. Personally, vacant residential real estate, whether for sale or rent, is a special joy every time.

Experiencing the transition between previous owners/landlords and their story to the property and seeing the joy of a new buyer/tenant is an exciting and interesting process. We are happy every time to be able to help with the dream of living and to accompany the journey from the viewing to the handover and even afterwards. Investment properties are less emotional, although of course no less exciting with a different intention.

Districts with a future: Bornstedt & Krampnitz

FIV: Neighborhoods for Singles, Families & Co. – For those who don’t live in Potsdam yet and want to move to Potsdam, which neighborhoods have a future? Where should you move to in Potsdam if you want to live nicely?

Sebastian Wicke: For everyone, “beautiful living” is an individual question and solution that we first have to work out together with our customers. One wants it green and quiet, the other urban and lively on the doorstep, the third then family-friendly with a focus on a good connection to Berlin. And Potsdam can do it all! There is a location for everyone here.

Whether it’s the beautiful, historic old town, culture, historic areas with a modern, cautiously redeveloped coat of paint like at Neuer Markt, new development districts like Bornstedt, Neu Fahrland or soon Krampnitz – new districts can always be experienced in Potsdam or old ones perceived in a new way, because there is movement throughout the city. The respective micro-location is different for everyone. But outstanding at the moment is Babelsberg, which has always been sought after and is now more and more in demand.

A view over Bornstedt:

It is developing very rapidly and also boldly, as the planning around the Filmpark shows. Daniel Libeskind’s recently published design for a tower-like new building complex has certainly generated a lot of attention. But the area around Potsdam’s main train station with the RAW site and Speicherstadt also shows how the city is developing.

Living room in a family house:

Price development of current real estate

FIV: Rents are a major issue throughout Germany. How has the real estate market and rental prices in Potsdam developed in recent years and how will they develop in the future?

Sebastian Wicke: As is generally the case throughout Germany, rents in Potsdam have of course risen rapidly in recent years due to many factors and have more than doubled in some cases for new leases in the last 10 years. Due to the very high daily search requests, I do not see a turnaround in the near future. The demand for housing of all kinds is there and rising, whether it’s a 1-room apartment or a 6-room apartment.

The rent increase applies to every property, regardless of price range. Nevertheless, we can always observe a large number of suitable tenants for each property, so that we could immediately let each house or apartment several times over, sometimes with long waiting lists. Potsdam has virtually no really bad locations; anything goes.

Types of real estate: recommendation for young couples and singles

FIV: In Germany, more people rent than buy. What would you recommend to a young couple or even a single person, renting or buying in Potsdam?

Sebastian Wicke: Whether to rent or buy has to be considered individually for each customer and also depends on personal means and, above all, life planning. We have customers whom we would never advise to buy, because they are simply often on the “jump” professionally and after 1-2 years move on to a completely different region. Nevertheless, it is also worthwhile for a single person to think about property if the future is foreseeable for the next 3-5 years.

For those who have capital left over and are looking for something anyway, buying is the better option to invest the capital securely, save the rent and take advantage of price developments of + 6-11 percent p.a. when selling later. With the current historically low interest rates still ideal. Provided of course they buy in the right corners the right object.

Typical first time buyer mistakes

FIV: Anyone who rents in Potsdam is relatively flexible and can move if necessary. Anyone who buys a property, whether a home or a condominium, is at least tied to the property for the long term by the loan or financing. What are typical first-time buyer mistakes from your experience as a real estate agent and how can you avoid them?

Sebastian Wicke: In principle, flexibility is not necessarily limited even with a purchase. There is the option of later renting and usually this always covers the burden of the loan, the house money and usually there is still a small surplus for contingencies to save. The first mistake is often when buying BEFORE the notary appointment to save on a neutral appraiser for a brief check, if you have never had to do with real estate and have not already developed an eye for it yourself.

Kitchen in a single-family house in the Potsdam area:

Every serious seller allows this and it is in no way a bad thing, quite the opposite. In the case of good real estate, a neutral expert opinion rather underlines the quality of the object. There are always little things, but this is about the major overlooked damage that can become financial ruin. Altogether it represents a really manageable Invest of 600, – to 1000, – euro, if one considers the extent of the investment, and the customer can sleep immediately calmer with an expert opinion, if it goes then to the notary. The next first-time buyer mistake is often found in the financing.

I can only recommend using financial portals and independent financial advisors/credit brokers in addition to your bank. This saves over the term and with good advice even five-digit amounts over the term. Never accept the first offer. Other mistakes are too extensive individualizations or very “special” tastes in the first property: the colorful tile backsplash, the red or yellow kitchen or windows in trendy colors during construction. This catches up with us all when we sell – costs cash for the seller and leads to more difficult conditions for us when we sell.

Taxes and ancillary costs in the Potsdam area

FIV: The purchase price of a property is one thing, but what ancillary costs and taxes must buyers in Potsdam expect?

Sebastian Wicke: In terms of ancillary costs, unfortunately most of the costs are regulated by law, so unfortunately you can not avoid the following costs that are fixed: These are in Brandenburg 6.5% land transfer tax (incidentally, the maximum rate in Germany, Bavaria has 3.5%), notary and land registry costs of about 1.5-2% on the purchase price in the notary contract, these fees are also regulated by law.

At least with regard to brokerage costs, something has been done to relieve the burden on the buyer. It has been legally and federally regulated that since the end of 2020 the pro rata cost sharing of the commission between seller and buyer in equal parts, usually between 3 – 3.57% incl. VAT. (per party) on the purchase price for single-family houses and condominiums. Land and apartment buildings are excluded from this. There it is usually a buyer’s commission, which, by the way, is then also occasionally negotiable, which many do not know. A good broker does not let a deal fail there and finds a balanced solution for all. Dare to address this.

Incidental costs at a glance:

• 6.5 % Real estate transfer tax
• 1.5 – 2 % Land register + notary fees
• 3 – 3.57 % commission

Apartment & houses as an investment: buy and rent

FIV: Potsdam neighborhoods for real estate investment – Let’s move on to real estate as an investment in Potsdam, for those who want to buy and rent. If our*r Leser*in decides for the purchase, with following letting: Which 2 districts or satellites around Potsdam would you recommend to a buyer for their capital investment in Potsdam? In your opinion as an expert, where do the most future opportunities lie?

Sebastian Wicke: Kaptalanlage in Potsdam is exciting, because the Potsdam area can no longer really be called “cheap”, but Munich never was and has only developed in one direction in recent years. I continue to be very optimistic about the Potsdam area and unfortunately have to let my hopes of a “bubble” burst. If at all, this can only be cautiously observed in individual projects or in micro-locations and in the upper high-price segment.

Dining room and living room in one:

Due to the good economic development of the metropolitan area of Berlin with its start-up boom and the investments in the surrounding area with Tesla or Microvast and their magnetic effect, which we are already clearly feeling, as well as the great position as a science and university location through SAP and the University of Potsdam and their growth, Potsdam remains an exciting and worthwhile investment. Every year there is a renewed struggle for housing and there is a shortage of everything, especially affordable student apartments and basic housing in general, as demand is constantly increasing.

Although Potsdam, unlike Berlin, is really building a lot more, there is no oversaturation in sight. The decisive factor after the investment is of course a good tenant selection, so that it is fun. By the way, we also take care of renting! We feel since the beginning of the Corona Pandemie also an additional, increased pressure from Berliners who want to get out of the “tight and tense city” and seek more lifestyle through more space with home office and recreation time with style in Potsdam and the surrounding area. It may now be the room more and the garden or a larger balcony in the quieter, elegant Potsdam.

Especially since there is now even less commuting due to more home offices and the route to Berlin to the workplace is then suddenly only 2-3 times a week no longer a big burden. Alternative locations can be found in the surrounding area and are still affordable. There would be Michendorf or Beelitz with good connections via the highways, improved rail connections in the near future and a lot of nature and recreational opportunities for the family. A lot has happened there in recent years, old towns have been revitalized, modernized and beautified, schools and daycare centers have been built and the infrastructure has also been extensively expanded. By the way, the State Horticultural Show will begin in Beelitz on April 2022, so it’s worth taking a look twice.

Broker assessment: Real estate with a future

FIV: In your opinion, what type of real estate has a future in Potsdam, what should one invest in? Small, large, existing, new construction?

Sebastian Wicke: Clearly, it’s small apartments that have been lacking for years. Apartments between 1-3 rooms in almost all locations, gladly renovated old buildings, good stock or modern new construction, if it is not too expensive. The price increase per m² is also highest here. The percentage of singles is also increasing in Potsdam and the pressure from the University of Potsdam with its students or the settled science locations with young professionals, who are just moving to Potsdam for various projects, is constantly there. Furnished apartments also continue to be a topic and can be worthwhile if the rental is regulated and the entry price is not too high.

Bedroom in Potsdam apartment:

First steps and tips

FIV: Lastly, one more question – you had mentioned the typical mistakes when buying a property. Many buy, but some also want to sell. As an experienced real estate agent in Potsdam, what tips can you give to those who are selling a property for the first time? What are the first steps and how do you successfuly sell a property in Potsdam?

Sebastian Wicke: The timing for a sale couldn’t be more ideal. There is pressure in the market due to the scarce inventory, the influx and the low interest rates in the market. Anyone who has owned a property in Potsdam or the surrounding area for a few years has done everything right and is the owner of a small or large asset – but currently only on paper. It is important to carefully select the right partner for the intended sale and not to “fiddle around” with it yourself, according to the motto: “I can do the ad myself and then my property will be gone anyway, so I won’t need a real estate agent!

The problem is not to find a buyer, but to assess the value correctly, objectively, neutrally, without emotional and personal influence. Of course, everyone is biased with their own things and taste. This makes it difficult to negotiate directly with the owner between seller and buyer. This is what we are here for, to form a healthy, value-free party for both sides and to arrange the middle way during the viewings and negotiations. We always try to level the optimal deal for both sides also with our own ideas and experience.

Kitchen in a Potsdam apartment:

We would not have sold many properties if the owners and buyers had met right at the beginning when selling or buying their own home and the different tastes, emotions or desires. Another important aspect is that we then also go into deeper discussions with the right prospective buyer and carry out a financial and solvency check.

A completely different topic are the constantly growing legal requirements and risks in the sales process from the legal obligation of the energy certificate and the information of the energy label to the DSGVO, rights to the image or incorrect area information and descriptions in the exposé or the later missing documents for the bank financing of the buyer. My tip is the selection of a reliable partner and professionals with enough experience via recommendation or some own research under consideration of reviews on various portals.

It doesn’t always have to be a well-known chain or a big name or come from a TV commercial with nice words. Have a longer personal conversation, gladly also right at the property. The chemistry should be right and the professional qualifications and history and local experience should not be underestimated. As a rule, it is also not very serious to name a price right on the spot at the first appointment without knowing the floor plans, exact areas and especially the state of maintenance.

Especially not by mail or on the phone, before the object has even been inspected together. A qualified valuation requires good documentation and knowledge of the object and such a thing is not – as often promised – in 5 minutes. Each object is unique and not off the shelf like a used car. Also, it is usually the largest investment or the largest capital decision in the sale, which a person makes in his life. This deserves attention and time.

Thanks to Sebastian Wicke for the interview!

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First apartment? Step by step to capital investment

Buy your own apartment – As soon as you move into your first own apartment, for most people it’s rent, rent, rent. Every month you go to work many hours, to spend the largest part ultimately for the next rent due at the beginning of the month. It’s no wonder that many young people are considering buying a condominium as soon as possible.

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Rent, buy, live in Wuppertal

Our interview partner specializes in the brokerage, sale and rental of real estate in Wuppertal. In an interview talked about attractive districts, financing options and the current real estate market. Here you can learn everything about the first apartment purchase, different types of houses and types of apartments.

Wuppertal at a glance:

Wuppertal from close up:

Rentals: Service charges

You have decided to rent or even rent a house or apartment? Then you should definitely know more about bedroom furnishing and exclusive terrace design.

Purchase: New construction to old building

Find your new home in attractive neighborhoods of Wuppertal and avoid serious mistakes in your purchase! What you should know before your purchase you will learn in this article! Are you also interested in other cities? We have selected other interesting cities for you, such as Düsseldorf, Aachen and Duisburg.

Interview about Wuppertal real estate

Are you looking for a suitable property in Wuppertal? But are you wondering which are the most popular districts to live in, whether it is better to rent or buy now, or how high the ancillary costs and taxes are in Wuppertal? Then you have come to the right place. Because we have talked to a real estate agent who will answer all your questions about real estate in the region.

Oertel real estate team about the real estate market

FIV: Before we talk about Wuppertal and its real estate market and your recommendations for tenants and buyers, we would like to know a little more about your agency Oertel Immobilien. Could you briefly summarize for our readers what your agency does and what you specialize in?

Oertel Immobilien: We are primarily specialized in investment properties such as multi-family houses as well as commercial properties. However, we started our brokerage activities with condominiums and one/two-family houses. We now have a separate department for this and it receives equal attention from us. From time to time we get inquiries from owners whether we can use our marketing strategy also for renting – of course we help with such a request.

Our marketing strategy is modern and process-oriented. We value fairness with sellers and buyers and our cleverly devised processes mean that there is no room for dubious brokerage. At the end of the day, we live primarily from referrals and are delighted when buyers and sellers alike are happy to sign the contract.

Bathroom in a Wuppertal apartment:

Mediation from land to houses

FIV: As an agent in Wuppertal, which properties do you personally prefer to broker?

Oertel Immobilien: Buyers of commercial and investment properties are experienced in buying real estate and know exactly what is needed for their own decision and for the financing bank. In this respect, buyers demand a very good service and we naturally meet this requirement. It is fun to see convinced customers. It is even better when this leads to new contacts in one’s own network. However, we can by no means limit ourselves, as every property has its own charm. We build up high sympathy with every property.

Neighborhoods in Wuppertal with opportunities for the future

FIV: Neighborhoods for Singles, Families & Co. – For those who do not yet live in Wuppertal and want to move to Wuppertal, which neighborhoods have a future? Where should you move to in Wuppertal if you want to live nicely?

Oertel Immobilien: One of my employees moved to Wuppertal from Düsseldorf with his partner, and since then he has never wanted to return to Düsseldorf. He feels diversity and cohesion in Wuppertal. He is convinced by the architecture of the buildings as well as by the natural leisure facilities. All districts have their own charm. In the Briller Viertel or on the Cronenberg one lives exclusively, in Barmen the rents are relatively inexpensive, in the Nordstadt it is particularly communal, in the Südstadt one is quickly at the university and in Beyenburg one lives in the country. As you can see, there is something for everyone.

Neighborhoods with charm:

• Brill quarter
• Cronenberg
• North City
• South City
• Beyenburg

Briller Viertel at a glance:

Rental price development in recent years to date

FIV: Rents are a big topic, all over Germany. How has the real estate market and rental prices in Wuppertal developed in recent years and how will they develop in the future?

Oertel Immobilien: Wuppertal has been developing at breakneck speed for a decade and, due to its good transport links, is also becoming increasingly interesting for people from surrounding cities such as Cologne, Düsseldorf or Dortmund. Compared to the aforementioned cities, the rent here continues to be lower, which is why people decide to move to Wuppertal. However, the demand for real estate offers is also very high here and the rents have not been as cheap for a long time as you might remember from the past.

It is likely that rents will continue to rise. The old properties are gradually being renovated, turning them into very nice old buildings with high ceilings and large windows, which is why the price per square meter is also rising. New construction projects are also not being finished fast enough so that the demand could be satisfied.

Here you can see a wardrobe in a granny apartment:

Broker assessment: rent or buy

FIV: In Germany, more people rent than buy. What would you recommend to a young couple or even a single person, renting or buying in Wuppertal?

Oertel Immobilien: That’s a very individual question that everyone has to answer for themselves.

If someone has the opportunity to purchase a property, he should do so.

Real estate prices will not fall so easily and with the favorable loans currently, it has not been so appealing to become the owner of a property for a long time. If single people or young couples at some point the property becomes too small, they have made an investment for the future at a young age and benefit from it when you want to buy a larger property.

Home and condominium: buy or rent

FIV: Anyone who rents in Wuppertal is relatively flexible and can move if necessary. Anyone who buys a property, whether a home or a condominium, is at least tied to the property for the long term by the loan or financing. What are typical first-time buyer mistakes from your experience as a real estate agent and how can you avoid them?

Oertel Immobilien: First-time buyers like to make the mistake of not getting enough advice, but at the same time, a property is usually sold quickly, so you don’t have the opportunity to think long and hard about a purchase offer. The lack of knowledge makes it so difficult, which is why it is advisable to observe the market beforehand. Only when you feel confident and you know exactly what kind of real estate you want to buy, you should take the first steps to buy real estate.

It makes sense if the financing is already clarified with the bank in advance. In case of questions, an open and honest communication with the real estate agent is helpful, because this avoids doubts and wrong decisions.

Living and dining room area in family house:

Service charges and taxes in NRW

FIV: The purchase price of a property is one thing, but what ancillary costs and taxes must buyers in Wuppertal expect?

Oertel Immobilien: A real estate buyer is usually aware to include the brokerage fee and incidental purchase costs. Depending on the broker, the commission can range from 0 to 10%. The land transfer tax for Wuppertal is 6.5% and the notary takes about 2% for the notarization.

• Broker commission: 0 – 10%
• Real estate transfer tax: 6.5%
• Notary: 2%

Often the cost of renovation and relocation is underestimated and not factored in.

Investment: Wuppertal districts with a future

FIV: Wuppertal neighborhoods for real estate investment – Let’s move on to real estate as an investment in Wuppertal, for those who want to buy and rent. If our*r reader*in for the purchase, with subsequent letting, decides: Which 2 districts or satellites around Wuppertal would you recommend to a buyer for their capital investment in Wuppertal? In your opinion as an expert, where do the most future opportunities lie?

Oertel Immobilien: That varies from project to project. If you want to take a certain risk and invest in an inexpensive property, which may increase in value in a few years, you are probably served with the district Oberbarmen & Heckinghausen. If you want security, you buy an expensive investment property in Elberfeld-, in Barmen or in Vohwinkel-Zentrum.

Districts that increase the value of the property:

• Oberbarmen
• Heckinghausen
• Elberfeld
• Vohwinkel

Heckinghausen at a glance:

For those who bring time and do not necessarily pay attention to securities and quick profit, are probably better served with Oberbarmen and surroundings. But beware, it is up to the property whether it is worth the investment or not. It is important to have a close look at the property and to know the history behind the house. Thus one avoids bad investments in allegedly promising locations. If one is not careful, one buys too expensive a building plot with a demolition object.

Real estate types with future opportunities

FIV: In your opinion, what type of real estate has a future in Wuppertal, what should one invest in? Small, large, existing, new construction?

Oertel Immobilien: Wuppertal stands out with its old building charm and lovers of such properties appreciate this. Due to the fact that there are still enough old buildings and hardly any space for new construction, people are forced to invest in existing properties. Some of these are in need of renovation or are already up to date and ready for the first move. Both with the one and with the other one stands on good ground.

Suspension railroad: landmark of Wuppertal

The suspension railroad in Wuppertal is the city’s trademark. It runs a 13-kilometer route and stops at a total of 16 stations. With 80,000 users per day, it is an everyday means of transport for the city’s residents, but is also a popular attraction for tourists.

Typical myths in the sale of real estate

FIV: Lastly, one more question – you had mentioned the typical mistakes when buying a property. Many buy, but some also want to sell. As an experienced broker in Wuppertal, what tips can you give to those who are selling a property for the first time? What are the first steps and how do you successfuly sell a property in Wuppertal?

Oertel Immobilien: Three fatal myths exist among many sellers.

Typical myths:

1. Myth: “I set the price higher and I can always go down”.
2. Myth: “I have time and do not have to sell directly”.
3. Myth: “I’ll try it myself first. I can always call in a broker”.

With each seller, we address these myths during a consultation and help avoid the worst mistakes. Apart from that, self-sellers can pick up a free guide from us, in which we explain in seven steps how to sell at the best price. But to be honest, very few people manage to do that. The very fact that the owner usually has a full-time job and can’t answer the high number of inquiries fast enough, he loses serious prospective buyers.

We are specialized in this. It is our job to sell the property successfuly. We do this every day and know what buyers want, what measures are necessary and what must be paid special attention to when selling.

Thanks to Oertel Immobilien for the interview!

Rent, buy, live in Wuppertal

The real estate market in Wuppertal is large and for this reason it is important to find the best real estate agent for you. In our overview you will find the best real estate agents from Wuppertal, who can make your dream of your property possible.

• Real estate agent Wuppertal

First apartment? Step by step to capital investment

Buy your own apartment – As soon as you move into your first own apartment, for most people it’s rent, rent, rent. Every month you go to work many hours, to spend the largest part ultimately for the next rent due at the beginning of the month. It’s no wonder that many young people are considering buying a condominium as soon as possible.

• Buy first apartment

Rent, buy, live in Aachen

Our interview partner, has specialized in the brokerage, sale and rental of real estate in Aachen and the surrounding area. In an interview, we talked to a local real estate agent about attractive neighborhoods, financing options and the current real estate market. Here you can learn everything about buying your first home, different types of houses and apartments.

Overview of Aachen and surroundings:

Aachen up close:

Rent: Monthly costs

You have decided to rent or even rent a house or apartment? Then you should definitely know more about bedroom furnishings and exclusive terrace design, so that nothing stands in the way of the dream apartment and is equipped in the best possible way.

Buy: Financing your own home

Find your new home in attractive districts of Aachen, such as Eilendorf, Brand or Richterich and avoid serious mistakes with your purchase! What you should know before your purchase you will learn in this article! Are you also interested in other cities? We have selected other interesting cities for you, such as Düsseldorf, Cologne and Duisburg.

Realtor interview: Current market and prices

In an interview, we got to know a real estate company from Aachen better and asked everything about real estate, renting, buying and capital investment. In this article you will also learn which questions you should answer before buying a property.

IVB Peter Dondorf: Interview partner

FIV: Before we go into Aachen and its real estate market and your recommendations for tenants and buyers, we would like to know a little more about your agency IVB Peter Dondorf Immobilien. Could you briefly summarize for our readers what your agency does and what you specialize in?

P. Dondorf: Gladly, we have been active in the Aachen real estate market for more than 30 years. I think we do about 90% residential and about 10% commercial. In short, our specialization is the sale of residential real estate. Here we are the right contact for all sellers. With 7 employees, we are certainly not one of the largest in Aachen, but our employees. who work on the customer are all trained real estate agents.

Real estate agent Peter Dondorf:

FIV: As a broker in Aachen, which properties do you personally prefer to broker?

P. Dondorf: Personally, I am always happy when I can fulfill a young family’s dream of owning their own home.

Districts in Aachen with a future: Brand, Burtscheid & Co.

FIV: Neighborhoods for Singles, Families & Co. – For those who don’t live in Aachen yet and want to move to Aachen, which neighborhoods have a future? Where should you move to in Aachen if you want to live nicely?

P. Dondorf: The different districts are also sought after by different demand groups. Let’s take the Brand district, for example. Here, it’s mainly families who are looking. Why is that? The infrastructure is top, there are many kindergartens and three elementary schools. Sports clubs and other recreational activities offer families a wide range of leisure activities. The city center as well as Burtscheid is often sought after by singles or couples without children. This is certainly also due to the proximity to the RWTH and the FH. The demand for snacking in Aachen’s southern quarter continues unabated, although prices here quickly reach seven figures.

Popular districts:

• Fire
• Burtscheid
• South Quarter

Aachen-Brand district:

Development of the real estate market

FIV: Rents are a big topic, all over Germany. How has the real estate market and rental prices in Aachen developed in recent years and how will they develop in the future?

P. Dondorf: Rents have probably risen in recent years just as they have in other cities. There is also a lot of demand for single-family homes in the outer areas, although the supply is always very low.

Newly built apartments quickly range from €10.00 to €14.00 per square meter.

FIV: In Germany, more people rent than buy. What would you recommend to a young couple or even a single person, renting or buying in Aachen?

P. Dondorf: In principle, I would always advise buying. However, it also always depends on the location and the entry price. Why not go and buy a small capital investment and rent the dream property if it is not yet available for purchase today.

Bedroom area in a single-family house in Aachen:

Error: buy to buy

FIV: Anyone who rents in Aachen is relatively flexible and can move if necessary. Anyone who buys a property, whether a home or a condominium, is at least tied to the property for the long term by the loan or financing. What are typical first-time buyer mistakes from your experience as a real estate agent and how can you avoid them?

P. Dondorf: I always tell my customers that it’s better to look a little longer and buy the right property, and not to panic buy.

Many buyers make the mistake that they buy to buy.

If you are a prospective customer not from the industry, always take a professional with you, even if it costs a little. In the end, this professional will be cheaper for you.

Service charges and taxes in NRW

FIV: The purchase price of a property is one thing, but what ancillary costs and taxes must buyers in Aachen expect?

P. Dondorf: In Aachen or in all of North Rhine-Westphalia, you as a buyer pay 6.5% land transfer tax and 1.5-2.0% notary and court costs. If you buy through a real estate agent, a commission of 3.57% can also be added here.

Incidental expenses:

• 6.5% Real estate transfer tax
• 1.5% – 2% Notary, court fees
• 3.57% broker commission

Real Estate Investment: Capital Investment

FIV: Aachen neighborhoods for real estate investment – Let’s move on to real estate as an investment in Aachen, for those who want to buy and rent. If our*r Leser*in for the purchase, with following letting, decides: Which 2 districts or even satelites around Aachen, would you recommend to a buyer for their capital investment in Aachen? In your opinion as an expert, where do the most future opportunities lie?

P. Dondorf: The first question you should ask yourself is what you really want. Security or return on investment? If you want security, you should definitely pay attention to the location. This also includes the neighborhood and the condition of the property. Newly built apartments do not always have to be the worse investment when it comes to renting. The real estate professional is also willing to invest in C-locations, because he is able to assess certain aspects and increase rental potential. Laymen should rather keep their hands off this.

Living area in a loft:

Old building, new building, small or large: What should you invest in?

FIV: In your opinion, what type of real estate has a future in Aachen, what should one invest in? Small, large, existing, new construction?

P. Dondorf: Every type of real estate has its advantages and disadvantages. Before Corona, I would have always said “small apartments” that were in demand by students. With all the online lectures, I changed my mind as demand was down in this area in particular.

But let’s wait and see, when the focus is no longer on Corona, the asset class “small apartments” will also pick up again. There is still a steady demand for apartments with 3 rooms. Here the intersection is the largest. Shared apartments, couples, small families, older couples, all are in the market for 3-bedroom apartments.

Typical mistakes when buying real estate

FIV: Lastly, one more question – you had mentioned the typical mistakes buying a property. Many buy, but some also want to sell. As an experienced broker in Aachen, what tips can you give to those who are selling a property for the first time? What are the first steps and how to sell a property in Aachen successfuly?

P. Dondorf: There can only be one tip:

Don’t sell without a professional on your side.

There are many good brokers in Aachen, make comparisons here and contact the one that suits you best. The gut feeling should be right and it does not matter whether it is a large company or the owner works alone.

Rent, buy, live in Aachen

The real estate market in Aachen is large and for this reason it is important to find the best real estate agent for you. In our overview you will find the best real estate agents from Aachen, who can make your dream of your property possible.

• Broker Aachen

First apartment? Step by step to capital investment

Buy your own apartment – As soon as you move into your first own apartment, for most people it’s rent, rent, rent. Every month you go to work many hours, to spend the largest part ultimately for the next rent due at the beginning of the month. It’s no wonder that many young people are considering buying a condominium as soon as possible.

• Buy first apartment

Documents of the contract of sale: What do I need?

Here we have summarized step by step the structure of a sales contract for a condominium.

Part 1: Master data buyer and seller

First of all, the master data of the buyer and the seller, which should be listed first on every contract. Here should be noted in any case the full name, address and date of birth of both sides.

• Master data buyer and seller

Part 2: Master data of the property

The apartment being purchased should also be described in detail in the purchase agreement. The data of the apartment, such as address and number of the housing unit, also includes the land register sheet number or the extract from the land register.

• Master data of the property
• Land register excerpt

Part 3: Purchase price of the property

Next, the purchase price of your apartment including all additional costs must be listed, as well as the day by which the payment must be received at the latest, i.e. the payment deadline.

• Purchase price and payment term

Part 4: Tenant data

If you are buying your apartment as an investment, you should add the leases of the future tenants both to the documentation for the bank and as the next page of the lease.

What else is listed:

• Tenant data / Tenant list (as attachment)
• Current status of tenancies
• Deposits paid by tenants
• Confirmation: No rent arrears

Part 5: Promises of the seller

It is important for you as a buyer to have listed in the lease agreement all previously verbally agreed commitments of the seller. This includes, for example, renovation work in the apartment or similar.

Should be listed:

• Representations of the seller

Part 6: Billing and costs

You have finally decided to rent out your apartment. To do this, you also need the tenant’s statements of account and the cost claims of the residents’ contributions.

Accounting

If the economic transfer takes place before the middle of the year, the settlement must be taken over by the seller. If it takes place after the middle of the year, you as the buyer must take care of the settlement.

• Before mid-year: Seller
• After mid-year: Buyer

Costs

The costs of the adjoining owners must also be taken into account and listed. Separation is made from the moment of transfer of the apartment. Costs incurred before the transfer are borne by the seller. All costs thereafter must be borne by the buyer.

• Separation from the date of transition
• Before transition: Seller
• After transition: Buyer

What else is there to do?

If you are already a little deeper into the subject, you should definitely know that you should separate items of an apartment. Separate things such as outdoor facilities, garages, fitted kitchens, but also furniture taken over, which reduces land transfer tax. In addition, an assignment of claims against craftsmen should be made. If you have already received the documents from your bank before the notary appointment, you should also have the land charge documents ready.

What else should be in the lease?

• Separate items
• Assignment of claims against craftsmen
• Land charge documents

The first step: types of real estate

The first own property, but in which type of real estate should I invest best? This question is often asked by young investors and this is exactly where we have the answers for you! Whether it’s a house, apartment building, condominium, special real estate or commercial real estate, we have put together a comparison of all types of real estate. With this guide, you’ll find the easiest entry into the real estate world. Besides the profitable sides, the real estate industry also holds some risks for you. In order to keep these as low as possible, we have put together a guide to buying your first property!

Rent, buy, live in Braunschweig

Our interview partner specializes in the brokerage, sale and rental of real estate in Braunschweig. We talked to the real estate agent team from Braunschweig in an interview about attractive districts, financing options and the Braunschweig real estate market. Here you can learn everything about buying your first home, different types of houses and apartments.

Brunswick at a glance:

Brunswick from close up:

Rents: Family-friendly neighborhoods

You have decided to rent a house or apartment? Then you should definitely know more about bedroom furnishing and beautiful terrace design. Home is where you feel comfortable!

Buy: Invest and capital investment

Find your new home in attractive districts of Braunschweig such as Bebelhof, Elmaussicht or Gliesmarode and avoid serious mistakes in your purchase! You can find out here which questions you should answer before buying your property! Are you also interested in other cities? We have selected other interesting real estate agents in cities such as Düsseldorf, Aachen and Duisburg.

Interview: Real estate in Braunschweig

In an interview, we got to know a real estate company from Braunschweig better and asked everything about real estate, renting, buying and capital investment. In this article you will also learn which questions you should answer before buying a property.

Real estate agent Adner & Partner: Interview Partner

FIV: Before we talk about Braunschweig and its real estate market and your recommendations for tenants and buyers, we would like to know a little more about your agency Adner & Partner Immobilien. Could you briefly summarize for our readers what your agency does and what you specialize in?

Adner & Partner: Our focus is on the sale and rental of residential real estate. We specialize in condominiums and single-family homes. In addition, we broker investment properties, such as multi-family houses or rented condominiums. In addition, we regularly set up new construction projects, which are realized with a friendly architect and developer.

So far, 5 apartment buildings have been built in Braunschweig and Wolfenbüttel and sold by Adner & Partner Immobilien. The next new building project in Braunschweig is about to start marketing. For our new building projects we are permanently looking for plots and/or dilapidated houses.

Small apartments in the center of Brunswick:

FIV: As a real estate agent in Braunschweig, which properties do you personally prefer to broker?

Adner & Partner: Basically, for me, there is no such thing as a “favorite property.” What always feels nice, however, is when people enter new stages of life in their new home. The young couple moving into their first home together or older gentlemen moving in close to their children and grandchildren regularly radiate happiness and contentment. That is always beautiful to witness. That makes me and my small team happy and also a little proud, because we are allowed to accompany people in this process.

Districts that have a future: Stöckheim, Melverode, Ring area

FIV: Neighborhoods for Singles, Families & Co. – For those who don’t live in Braunschweig yet and want to move to Braunschweig, which neighborhoods have a future? Where should you move to in Braunschweig if you want to live nicely?

Beautiful corners for families with child

Adner & Partner: Braunschweig has so many beautiful corners to offer. There is something for everyone. The green districts on the outskirts of the city, such as Stöckheim, Melverode, Mascherode or Südstadt, are ideal for families with children. Equally suitable are Lehndorf or Kanzlerfeld in the west of the city. Those who appreciate living in the city are in the right place in the Westliches Ringgebiet and the city center. The Östliche Ringgebiet is traditionally extremely popular and this standing will probably never end.

The proximity to the city and to the university, good shopping opportunities, numerous kindergartens, schools and a friendly atmosphere make the eastern part of the city so desirable. Even more popular are the Walllagen along the Oker River, which is located on the edge of the city center. Here live all those who appreciate a life in the city and can afford to buy a property here. On our website, we have compiled an overview of selected city districts, which provides information on real estate prices and infrastructure.

Melverode: Popular district in Braunschweig

Development of real estate prices: Purchase and rental prices

FIV: Rents are a big topic, all over Germany. How has the real estate market and rental prices in Braunschweig developed in recent years and how will they develop in the future?

Adner & Partner: Overall, the current market is characterized by high demand and scarce supply. This again led to strong price developments for condominiums and houses in 2021. On average, the price of existing apartments in Braunschweig rose by around 13.5 percent. Prices of single-family homes rose by around 16 percent. In the period under review, rents for existing apartments in Braunschweig rose by around 4 percent. The rent brake, the lowered cap of 15 percent and the rent index had a regulating effect here. I currently find it difficult to predict future price trends.

Will real estate prices in Braunschweig continue to rise?

If you had asked me before the war in Ukraine, I would have predicted a price increase for apartments of 4 percent and for houses of 7 percent. I would have put rent increases at 3-4 percent. Today, I estimate that rents in Braunschweig will continue to rise by about 4 percent per year. Existing real estate, especially apartments, is a crisis-proof form of investment and prices for them will certainly continue to rise. Presumably, 2-digit growth rates will once again establish themselves on the market.

As long as the interest rate landscape does not change significantly, population development in Braunschweig and the surrounding area remains on a growth trajectory, and insufficient construction activity does not pick up speed, no downward movement is expected for the time being. Despite the city of Braunschweig’s welcome construction offensive, it will not be possible to meet the demand for housing. The expected wave of refugees from Ukraine further underscores my assumption. In addition, a strong economic and university landscape ensure that Braunschweig’s real estate market will continue to be characterized by strong demand.

Living room in a 2-room apartment:

Should you rent or buy at this point?

FIV: In Germany, more people rent than buy. What would you recommend to a young couple or even a single person, renting or buying in Braunschweig?

Adner & Partner: This question is not so easy to answer, because the choice depends very much on individual plans, personality and various factors. Thus, no general statement can be made. Some points should always be considered before making this far-reaching decision. The young couple as well as the single person should be clear about if and when the family should grow or the professional situation could change. Because with property, the spontaneous move is already somewhat limited.

Buying a property: basic security

Once the right property has been found, the fixed interest rate should be designed for the long term so as not to run the risk of being overburdened with the repayment when interest rates rise.
Basically, however, I am of the opinion that buying a property is the better choice, because it offers a certain security against rising rents or a termination of the lease. During our viewings, we hear relatively often about own needs as a reason for the upcoming move. In addition, a property owner pays off his own property and not that of his landlord. Owning your own property therefore represents a solid investment for retirement provision.

Home and condominium: buying in the city

FIV: Anyone who rents in Braunschweig is relatively flexible and can move if necessary. Anyone who buys a property, whether a home or a condominium, is at least tied to the property for the long term by the loan or financing. What are typical first-time buyer mistakes from your experience as a real estate agent and how can you avoid them?

Adner & Partner: In general, if you rarely buy real estate, it’s best to get a professional to accompany you, who can save you from high losses. You will quickly notice a damp basement. The unauthorized attic conversion recognizes the real estate professional, with conscientious work. The layman does not. That is why we recommend every prospective buyer to organize an expert for a second inspection and not to spare the costs for it.

Here you can see an example of an old building apartment in Braunschweig:

Declaration of division for owners: Read carefully!

A purchase without checking the real estate documents from the construction file also represents a major risk. The documents that a buyer should definitely read carefully are the declaration of partition including all amendments as well as the allocation of any special rights of use to garden areas or parking spaces. A current excerpt from the land register, the collection of resolutions from the last 5 years and the building file already mentioned help to get a good overview and help to decide whether the property can be purchased or not.

In addition, no property should be purchased without an inspection or time pressure. Buyers should never be pressured into a quick or hasty purchase. In order to develop a feeling for the right price or the living space that is really required, it is advisable to view several properties that come close to the desired object.

Incidental costs and taxes: This is what you should know!

FIV: The purchase price of a property is one thing, but what ancillary costs and taxes must buyers in Braunschweig expect?

Adner & Partner: The so-called ancillary purchase costs for an existing property amount to approx. 11% of the property price. They consist of: Real estate transfer tax in Lower Saxony (5%), brokerage fee (usually 3.57% including tax) and notary and land registry costs (approx. 2%). For modernization or renovation, depending on the condition of the property, an additional amount should be considered. For a basic renovation, roughly between 500 and 700 € per square meter will be incurred. If only individual measures are to be carried out, lower costs will be incurred.

The most important at a glance:

• 11% Incidental costs of the real estate price
• Real estate transfer tax: 5%
• Brokerage fee: 3,57%
• Notary- land registry costs: 2%
• New buildings: Incidental costs further 10%

New buildings: Factor in another 10 percent in utility costs

For new buildings that are offered “turnkey”, we recommend our buyers to plan in an additional 10% of the purchase price in addition to the above-mentioned ancillary purchase costs. This can then be used to pay for painting, flooring, additional equipment (larger number of sockets and switches or, for example, a higher-quality bathroom). It will probably also be possible to pay for the fitted kitchen, which has yet to be installed. We always find when selling our new-build apartments that owner-occupants upgrade when it comes to fixtures and fittings, and those who want to rent out tend to make do with the standard fittings. Future landlords will probably be able to get by with less than 10%.

Here is a new construction kitchen from a Brunswick apartment:

Real estate as financial security

FIV: Brunswick neighborhoods for real estate investment – Let’s move on to real estate as an investment in Brunswick, for those who want to buy and rent. If our*r Leser*in decides for the purchase, with following letting: Which 2 districts or satellites around Braunschweig would you recommend to a buyer for their capital investment in Braunschweig? In your opinion as an expert, where do the most future opportunities lie?

Adner & Partner: In principle, the districts adjacent to the city center are certainly a good recommendation. For example, the western and eastern ring areas. Purchase prices in the Westl. Ringgebiet are below those in the Östl. Ringgebiet. In addition, there are currently more apartments for sale in the West Ring area than in the East Ring area. Anyone who buys and rents here is not making a mistake.

Market participants should be flexible nowadays

However, the shortage of properties for sale requires a certain flexibility on the part of market participants. The willingness to buy and rent in other parts of the city cannot hurt. An example to illustrate this: For every property on offer in the eastern ring area, around 108 people are willing to buy (with 17 offers). In the western part 79 seekers come to an offer (with 22 offers). So anyone who wanted to buy exclusively in the eastern part may have to switch to the western part. It becomes even clearer, for example, in a comparison between Nordstadt and the Westl. ring area.

In March 2022, the northern city has 43 offers for sale on Immobilienscout. In contrast, there are 1644 seekers. This means that there are only around 38 potential buyers for every offer. The chance of a purchase is therefore much higher here and renting is no less feasible in Nordstadt than in other parts of the city.
For investors or owner-occupiers, the following applies: The search profile should not be too narrow and there should be an openness to several locations.

Development potential: falling prices between city districts

Future opportunities or development potential always exist where there is a price differential between the districts. However, this has become smaller and smaller in the last 5 years and even in the traditionally unpopular districts, such as Braunschweig’s Weststadt, property prices have risen sharply. In this context it should be said that the Weststadt has an absolutely intact infrastructure and the district is much better than its image. By the way, on our homepage we have published a district report with currently 13 districts incl. market report for Braunschweig.

Districts with development potential:

• Veltenhof
• Turn over
• Watenbüttel

Investors could take a closer look at these districts.

Investing in different types of real estate: what is worthwhile?

FIV: In your opinion, what type of real estate has a future in Braunschweig, what should one invest in? Small, large, existing, new construction?

Adner & Partner: According to our current market research, 3-4 room apartments are most frequently sought in Braunschweig. Close behind are apartments with 2-2.5 rooms.
Apartments between 76-95 m² are extremely sought after. Followed by 56-75 m², which are sought almost as often as apartments between 96- 110 m². In summary, it can be deduced that the 3-4 room apartment with a living space between 76 and 95 m² is the ideal rental property.

Frequently searched in Brunswick:

• 2 – 2,5 room apartment
• 76-95 m² apartment
• 96- 110 m² apartment

However, the evaluation also shows that it can make sense from an investor’s point of view to use 2.5 room apartments. It is important that there is space for a small home office. Furthermore, in our experience, an apartment that is to be rented quickly and well should have a balcony. It will be perfect if the bathroom is equipped with a window. Whether it is a new building or an existing one is decided by the investor’s wallet. My personal preference is the new construction apartment.

Typical mistakes when buying real estate: checklist

FIV: Finally, one more question: You had mentioned the typical mistakes buying a property. Many buy, but some also want to sell. As an experienced real estate agent in Braunschweig, what tips can you give to those who are selling a property for the first time? What are the first steps and how do you successfuly sell a property in Braunschweig?

Adner & Partner: Selling a property is a complex process in which many decisions have to be made and all the individual steps have to be carefully planned and worked through in sequence. Thoughtful preparation and planning – these are the most important secrets to success when selling a property. This is true for sellers who want to sell without an agent as well as for real estate agents. The success of a real estate transaction lies in the preparation. This includes the selection of the real estate agent.

My recommendation is to choose a broker from the region.

This is where the regional real estate agent plays his advantages, because he knows his area of activity. A real estate agent from the region knows from his daily work how the local real estate market works and what peculiarities prevail. The so-called hybrid brokers, which we all know from TV commercials, usually can’t keep up.

Here once again the office of the Adner & Partner agency:

The essential questions a salesperson should answer:

• By when must the property be sold?
• When should the tenants or myself move out?
• Which sales strategy do I want to use?
• What price do I want to achieve and is it realistic?
• Which advertising media (newspaper, Internet) should be used?
• How much do you have to invest during the sales process?
• How do I ensure my accessibility?
• What information do I give on the phone?
• How do I ensure that the buyer is solvent?
• If these questions are clarified, then nothing stands in the way of a successful real estate sale.

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The real estate market in Braunschweig is large and for this reason it is important to find the best real estate agent for you. In our overview you will find the 10 best real estate agents from Braunschweig, who can make your dream of your property possible.

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First apartment? Step by step to capital investment

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Rent, buy, live in Bochum

Real Estate Urban lead a dynamic and experienced company that specializes in brokering, selling and renting real estate in Bochum. FIV Magazine has talked to the real estate agent team from Bochum in an interview about attractive districts, financing options and the Bochum real estate market. Here you can learn everything about buying your first home, different types of houses and apartments.

Overview of Bochum and surrounding cities:

Bochum from close up:

Rent: Contract & Settlement

After the successful purchase of the property and the execution of the purchase contract, you naturally want to furnish your newly acquired property according to your individual needs. From the living room furnishings, to the garden design, nothing stands in their way of your creative imagination.

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In our interview you will learn everything about real estate and returns in Bochum. Should you buy a property in Bochum or is it more worthwhile to buy nearby, for example in Witten or Herne?

Real estate agent interview about real estate in Bochum

The first condominium or real estate as an investment? In this interview you will learn the most important tips & tricks. Buy, rent, live in Bochum but also tips for capital investments. We ask the questions, he provides the answers.

Urban real estate: Real estate agent in Bochum

FIV: Before we talk about Bochum and its real estate market and your recommendations for tenants and buyers, we would like to know a little more about your agency Immobilien Urban. Could you briefly summarize for our readers what your agency does and what you specialize in?

Immobilien Urban: I founded Immobilien Urban GmbH almost five years ago as a young and innovative real estate agency. We have specialized in the sale of residential real estate. We would like to set ourselves apart from old-established brokers in Bochum and the surrounding area with our service and our open and communicative manner. Technical means, such as drone photography, professional object photos, visualizations of exterior and interior spaces, as well as homestaging raise the brokering to a new level. It is our claim to inspire not only the seller, but also the prospective buyer.

Buying a property: emotional decision

Despite all the possibilities offered by technology, the purchase of a future home is “fortunately” still a very emotional decision. The communication with prospective buyers and a personal inspection as well as consultation are therefore essential. Our greatest ambition is to present the property perfectly and to accompany buyers as well as sellers in the best possible way during the buying or selling process.

Hallway in a luxury property in Bochum:

Real estate mediation

FIV: As an agent in Bochum, which properties do you personally prefer to broker?

Urban Real Estate: I prefer to broker the classic single-family home. Here it is primarily about emotional decisions and not about a rational return. On the one hand, I try to pick up on the seller’s personal connection to the property and incorporate it into our exposé. It is often an emotional moment for our clients to decide to sell their home.

The only thing that helps is a close exchange of ideas and a response to the seller’s personal wishes. On the other hand, prospective buyers are in the process of fulfilling their dream of owning their own home, and it is a pleasure to be able to accompany this process in most cases. Especially the handing over of the keys and the anticipation of the buyers for the object motivate me for further tasks. I help people with an important step in their lives and this task I take very seriously with pleasure.

Districts with future opportunities: Stiepel & Altenbochum

FIV: Neighborhoods for Singles, Families & Co. – For those who don’t live in Bochum yet and want to move to Bochum, which neighborhoods have a future? Where should you move to in Bochum if you want to live nicely?

Urban real estate: Bochum is on the whole a very beautiful and green city. Often as a gray mouse in the shadow of the big ones, Essen as well as Dortmund, Bochum offers singles and families very much quality of life. The complete south over Weitmar, Altenbochum as well as Stiepel, in order to name only the largest districts, offers families short ways and a large leisure offer. As a university city, it also offers singles many small apartments in and around the city center.

Real estate agent Peter Urban:

Ehrenfeld as a popular district

Especially the Ehrenfeld district, south of the city center, has grown in recent years into a very popular hotspot for young people on the one hand, but also for wealthy families for whom the short distance to the city center is important. This continues to spread in the direction of Springerplatz. Every Friday afternoon, for example, the Moltkemarkt takes place on Springerplatz, this offers special culinary experiences from merchants from the Bochum area. Here, especially in nice weather, many families with children meet and start the weekend with pleasure.

Young people and singles of all ages then find their way to the Bermuda Triangle. There are countless restaurants and pubs there.
But Bochum also has many beautiful neighborhoods to offer for families with lower incomes. It is particularly pleasing that there are no social hotspots in Bochum. Most of the neighborhoods have a very balanced population and that is what makes Bochum so special.

Development of rental prices in Bochum

FIV: Rents are a big topic, all over Germany. How has the real estate market and rental prices in Bochum developed in recent years and how will they develop in the future?

Urban real estate: In Bochum, too, purchase prices and rents have risen sharply in recent years, to be honest. However, with the exception of a few districts, we are still far from the prices in Düsseldorf, Cologne or Münster. Bochum offers sufficient living space for families of all income levels, even if the search for a single-family home is becoming more and more of a waiting game. Due to the many former miners’ settlements, however, there are also many alternatives to new construction.

The houses are somewhat older, but have large garden plots and offer a lot of potential. The purchase prices are much more affordable than a new construction project. In the future, the market will remain tight and will depend on interest rate policies. If these remain at the current level, owning a home is a perfect alternative to renting. For an investor, the investment in multi-family housing remains a perfect alternative to a savings account.

The office of Urban Real Estate:

Rent or buy as a young couple/ single person

FIV: In Germany, more people rent than buy. What would you recommend to a young couple or even a single person, renting or buying in Bochum?

Immobilien Urban: This is not an easy question to answer, because many personal factors of the seekers play a big role here. How flexible do I want to remain, how do I envision my future. Quitting a rented apartment often doesn’t require an emotional decision, which is likely to be much more difficult with a home of one’s own. We recommend taking one step at a time. Real estate has always been a stable value investment, so we always tend to buy, but it must fit into the life situation of the seeker.

Typical mistakes when buying real estate: tips for first-time buyers

FIV: Anyone who rents in Bochum is relatively flexible and can move if necessary. Anyone who buys a property, whether a home or a condominium, is at least tied to the property in the long term by the loan or financing. What are typical first-time buyer mistakes from your experience as a real estate agent and how can you avoid them?

Immobilien Urban: Many first-time buyers are inexperienced in terms of the buying process and the liabilities that a property entails. We can only recommend to everyone to get many opinions, to compare the market and not to make any hasty actions. The purchase should be well considered and fit into the medium-term life planning. In recent years, however, a purchase has rarely turned out to be a mistake, because even if your own use is no longer an option, an apartment or even a house can be rented out well.

The long-term nature of financing a property should, of course, always be linked to life planning. If you are planning to buy or even build something, always seek advice from an external expert. Both in terms of the condition of the property, but also on the financing of the object and on tax issues.

• Get many opinions
• No rash purchases
• Linking financing to life planning
• Broker advice the be-all and end-all
• Condition check of the object
• Financing & Taxes

Incidental expenses and taxes of a real estate

FIV: The purchase price of a property is one thing, but what ancillary costs and taxes must buyers in Bochum expect?

Urban real estate: In addition to the purchase price, the buyer has to pay the so-called ancillary purchase costs. First and foremost and the largest part is the land transfer tax. Here relatively briskly after the notarial authentication 6.5% of the purchase price become due to the tax office. Furthermore, the buyer bears the costs of the notarization at the notary, about 1% of the purchase price, as well as all costs that have to do with the processing of the purchase contract, for example, all entries in the land register. Here, too, you have to calculate with about one percent. Thus, the incidental purchase costs amount to about 8.5%.

Incidental costs at a glance:

• 6.5% of the purchase price to the tax office
• 1% Notary
• 1% Land register
• 8.5% Incidental purchase costs

Another important point is the brokerage fees. Here, the federal government has created a novelty. The buyer’s costs may not exceed the seller’s costs. This means nothing other than that the seller must either pay the entire brokerage fee or can pass on a maximum of half of it to the buyer. This must be clearly evident in the exposé for the prospective buyer. However, this regulation only applies to the purchase of condominiums as well as detached and semi-detached houses.

The modern office building from the inside:

Capital investment Bochum: Most future opportunities

FIV: Bochum neighborhoods for real estate investment – Let’s move on to real estate as an investment in Bochum, for those who want to buy and rent. If our*r reader*in decides for the purchase, with following letting: Which 2 districts or satellites around Bochum would you recommend to a buyer for their capital investment in Bochum? In your opinion as an expert, where do the most future opportunities lie?

Urban real estate: When investing in real estate, I would always recommend paying attention to the infrastructure. Apartment sizes must fit the location of the building. There is no point in owning small apartments outside the city, it will be just as difficult to rent out family-sized apartments in the city center. A good investment is also characterized by the ratio of the purchase price and the rental income, this should be balanced and be able to guarantee a long-term planned rent. The choice of the district depends solely on the willingness of the buyer to take risks. For the beginning with a manageable risk, districts such as Altenbochum, Weitmar or Riemke are perfectly suitable.

Objects in which to invest

FIV: In your opinion, what type of real estate has a future in Bochum, what should one invest in? Small, large, existing, new construction?

Urban real estate: This question cannot be answered so sweepingly. Bochum is a university town, small apartments for students are essential. The campus around the university continues to expand every year and there is a need for more housing for students and university employees. Small age-appropriate apartments are also needed and built for older city residents. On the other hand, Bochum has a great need for family-friendly apartments that are affordable for everyone. We often have well over one hundred inquiries for an advertised 4.5 room apartment, which speaks for little choice in the area. I prefer a healthy mix.

What’s wrong with building houses with different apartment sizes, mixing families with students and seniors?

Private investors are very important for the real estate industry in Germany. In addition to looking at returns, they must also look at the efficiency of buildings. CO2-neutral construction will certainly be a major topic in the future. It is important that the higher construction costs are offset by subsidies and support from the state and do not necessarily have to have an impact on rents. Real estate must remain an attractive investment in order to create more living space for all age groups and social classes.

Sell house or apartment in Bochum

FIV: Lastly, one more question – you had mentioned the typical mistakes buying a property. Many buy, but some also want to sell. As an experienced real estate agent in Bochum, what tips can you give to those who are selling a property for the first time? What are the first steps and how to sell a property in Bochum successfuly?

Immobilien Urban: Of course, we can only advise every seller to hire a real estate expert. It starts with the determination of the selling price, continues with the compilation of all necessary documents and the preparation of suitable photographs as well as an exposé. Often, these things are underestimated and the search begins after the first visits. We offer a property only when all the necessary documents have been compiled. As a more experienced real estate agent, I have a good eye for a possible target group of interested parties.

This is important for the presentation of the property in the exposé. Our real estate agency also has a large database of searchers. This has the advantage that specifically selected interested parties can be adressed directly. We have enormous success with this and often find the suitable buyer after only a few viewing appointments. Also in negotiations about the purchase price, it is always easier if you can communicate your ideas to a third party, without a lot of emotion. It is then my task to implement these in the sense of the seller. Bochum has the advantage that there are many good real estate agencies, but to stand out from many others is a task that I gladly accept.

Avoid mistakes with these steps:

• Determination of the sales price
• Compilation of all documents
• Creation of suitable photographs
• Council: to hire a real estate agent

Thanks to Immobilien Urban for the interview!

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