Checklist for buying a house

For many people, buying a house is not only a major investment, but also a far-reaching life decision. This makes it all the more important to be well prepared. A checklist for buying a house can be of great value here. If you take a structured approach and know what to look out for, you can minimize risks and take the next step towards home ownership with confidence.

What to look out for when buying a house?

We show you step by step what you should consider when buying a house. Our comprehensive checklist for buying a property will help you keep track of everything - from the first viewing to handing over the keys.

Checklist before buying a property: develop clear ideas

Before you actively start looking for a property, you should take time to define your own wishes .

Define a clear idea of your dream property

Ask yourself the following questions, for example:

• What location is ideal for me/us?
• How many rooms do I/we need?
• What is particularly important to us in a house?

A realistic assessment of your needs will help you to narrow down your selection and make your search more targeted.

Define your budget

It is just as important to clarify your budget. The following questions will help here:

• How much equity can I/we raise?
• What monthly installment can I afford?
• What is my maximum purchase price?
• What financing options are available?
• What ancillary purchase costs should be taken into account?
  
  

Another point that is increasingly important to prospective home buyers: Sustainability.

Tips for the property search and first viewings

It is particularly helpful to take enough time during the first viewings to make notes or carry a checklist with you. This allows you to better compare your impressions later. Our checklist for property viewings shows you what is important and which details you should keep an eye on.

Property valuation: technical and legal house check

Do you like the property at first glance? Then it's time to take a closer look. A careful assessment of the property is essential. Not only should the appearance be assessed, but above all the technical condition, where the following points are particularly important:

• Building fabric
• Energy efficiency
• Condition of the roof, electrics and windows
• The surroundings (location, infrastructure and neighborhood)
• Legal aspects (e.g. contaminated soil, listed buildings, restrictions in the land register)

Making a purchase decision - but the right one

Once you have found a property that meets your expectations, it's time for the decision-making phase. This is where an experienced real estate consultant can support you. As neutral experts, they act as an intermediary between buyer and seller and represent both sides equally and impartially.

Before you commit yourself, it makes sense to find out about any planned conversions or possible renovation obligations. A discussion with your estate agent can also provide valuable insights in this regard.

Notary appointment and handover: what to look out for when concluding the purchase?

Once the purchase price has been negotiated and the contract agreed, the next step follows: the <a class='link' title='Zum Artikel 'Notary appointment for buying a house or apartment: procedure, costs