Guide & property glossary

Frequently asked questions

What does an estate agent in Munich cost?

Since the reform of §§ 656c/d BGB, the commission for apartments and single-family houses is shared between seller and buyer — as a rule 3.57% incl. VAT each. The exact terms are agreed transparently in advance.

How long does it take to sell a property in Munich?

In sought-after locations a few weeks to a few months — depending on price segment, condition and preparation. A realistic asking price and a professional listing shorten the time considerably.

Do I need an energy certificate (Energieausweis)?

Yes. Under the GEG it must be available at the latest at the first viewing and its key figures must appear in the listing. There are demand-based and consumption-based certificates.

When does speculation tax (Spekulationssteuer) apply?

On the private sale of a property within ten years of purchase, unless you used it yourself in the year of sale and the two preceding years. Individual cases should be checked with a tax adviser.

How is the value of my property determined?

Via the comparative, income or asset-value method depending on property type. We provide a well-founded, discreet valuation based on current transactions and the micro-location.

Which documents do I need to sell?

Among others: land register extract, floor plans, energy certificate, for apartments the declaration of division and owners’ meeting minutes, plus proof of any refurbishments.

Sell or let?

It depends on your goals, capital and the location. Letting offers ongoing income and provision for old age; selling realises the value now. We weigh this up with you objectively.

Why choose a local estate agent?

Munich is decided street by street. Knowledge of the micro-location, the right buyer network and realistic pricing make the difference — that is exactly our home turf.

Property glossary A–Z

Commission / Courtage

Remuneration for the agent’s work. For apartments and houses shared under §§ 656c/d BGB — as a rule 3.57% incl. VAT per side.

Shared-commission principle

Since 2020, for the sale of apartments and single-family houses to consumers, the buyer pays at most half of the total commission (§§ 656c/d BGB).

Speculation tax

Tax on the gain from a private property sale within ten years — with an exemption for owner-occupation.

Energy certificate (GEG)

Mandatory document on a building’s energy quality; required for sale and letting. Demand-based or consumption-based.

Real-estate transfer tax

Tax on the purchase; in Bavaria 3.5% of the purchase price.

Notary costs

For notarisation and land-register entry, roughly 1.5–2% of the purchase price.

Exposé

The sales document with key data, photos, floor plans and energy figures of a property.

Market value

The value attainable in normal business dealings (§ 194 BauGB) — the basis of a sound valuation.

Declaration of division

Document that divides a building into condominium units and common property (WEG).

Land register

Official register of ownership and encumbrances (mortgages, rights of way, usufruct) of a property.

Heritable building right (Erbbaurecht)

The right to build on someone else’s land in return for a ground rent (Erbbauzins).

Living-area calculation

Calculation of the living area, usually under the Living Area Ordinance (WoFlV) — relevant for price per square metre.

Early-repayment penalty

Compensation a bank may charge for the early repayment of a fixed-rate loan.

Usufruct (Nießbrauch)

The right to use a property and draw its income without owning it — often used when gifting/inheriting.

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