Here we clearly present a typical workflow for the purchase of property in cooperation with us.

The guide is obviously simplified and for illustrative purposes only. All cases are treated individually.

1. Financing

Gain insight into your financial situation. How much will you invest in Berlin? What financing options are available? We are happy to help you investigate your options.

2. Your wishes and requirements for the property

Search our housing portal under “Properties” and fill in the forms with your wishes. We’ll explore the market for potential properties / flats. ConnectGermany can send housing proposals and brochures from builders and suppliers directly to you.

3. Viewing trip

Based on the proposals sent, a personal trip will be planned to show you as many matching properties as possible. Viewings are done directly with the developer or seller, so your questions can be answered directly and correctly.

The trip to Berlin is planned. Flights or ferry tickets and hotels are booked. We plan the route with plenty of time for each viewing. It’s a good idea to plan an extra day to revisit an apartment, you are particularly interested in.

4. Your dream home is found

If you find your dream home, we will help you to obtain all necessary documents about the property for reading and information. Often, the buyer will make an offer, which we pass on to the seller. Rebates are not guaranteed and vary widely.

If desired, the flat will be reserved for you. In some cases, a deposit must be paid. This amount will not be returned if you change your mind, but will naturally be offset upon purchase of the property.

5. Draft contract

All purchases are made via a German notary, who gives impartial advice. You receive a sales contract draft from him. Before signing with the notary, both the buyer and seller read the draft contract through. If you want legal assistance in addition to the notary, we recommend choosing a lawyer. There are several English speaking lawyers in Berlin with expertise in German property law.

6. Meeting with the Notary

A date is selected for the meeting with the notary. At the meeting, both buyer and seller will be present or represented. The notary reads the entire contract and ensures that all parties understand the terms of the agreement. The contract is then signed.

Upon signature, the full purchase price* is deposited in the notary’s client account. If the transaction is canceled for legal reasons, the funds will be returned. The acquisition date is often the date upon which the funds are transferred to notary’s client account. The notary ensures there is no outstanding lien on the property before transfer of the payment to the seller. The payment is transferred to the seller and the transaction is complete. You will subsequently receive the final documents.

* Payment procedure for flats bought off plan is usually carried out in fixed installments as construction progresses.