|
| Estate
Agents |
|
Estate agents' fees are relatively high, at
between 3.5 – 6 %. This is perhaps because property values
are low and buying a property has historically been a once in a
lifetime purchase for a typical German, so sales volumes have also
been lower. Fees do vary considerably between agents, with some
agents managing to recoup a proportion of their fees from the seller
in some cases. This is therefore an important factor to consider
when selecting an agent, in addition to the range of properties
available and, of course, the agent’s ability to speak good
English if you are not a German speaker.
|
| |
|
Of
course, the ideal scenario would be to avoid using an estate agent
completely, but in practice this is extremely difficult for those
who are not based in Berlin, do not speak German and do not have
the time to source suitable properties themselves. A good agent
is worth every cent of their commission, and their level of involvement
in the purchase process (and their professionalism) is generally
far greater than in the UK or Ireland. They will act as a door opening
resource, putting you in touch with banks to secure financing, assisting
with the mortgage application process, liaising with the Notary
on your behalf and explaining all those confusing documents in German
which start to arrive on your doorstep. |
| A
good agent will also be able to assist with letting and managing
the property after the purchase is complete, if this is required. |
|
|