Are you faced with the complex task of valuing a property, perhaps as part of an inheritance? A <strong>simple valuation method</strong> is crucial to gaining financial clarity and avoiding costly mistakes. This article shows you in 4 steps how to arrive at a reliable valuation.
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The topic briefly and concisely
A straightforward assessment path is crucial for financial clarity in real estate, especially in cases of inheritance, and can save up to 20% in inheritance tax.
For an accurate evaluation, comprehensive documentation (land register extract, plans, etc.) and the choice of the appropriate method (comparison, income, asset value method) are essential.
The cost and duration of an appraisal depend on the type of report (short reports from around €500, full reports from €1,500); online tools are unsuitable for authorities.
The valuation of a property can seem complex, especially in emotional situations such as inheritance. Many heirs and owners fear an opaque process and uncertain outcomes. However, a simple valuation method is not only possible but essential for informed decisions. It allows you to objectively determine the true market value of your property, which is crucial for sales negotiations, inheritance settlements, or tax matters. With the right approach, you can save time, nerves, and often real money – up to 20% on inheritance tax through a correct appraisal. This guide leads you through the essential steps to a transparent and comprehensible property valuation.
Understanding the Basics: Why an Accurate Assessment is Indispensable
An accurate property valuation forms the foundation for almost every decision regarding your property. Without a reliable value, you risk financial disadvantages, whether it's a too low selling price or an unnecessarily high inheritance tax. Even a deviation of just 5% in value can mean a difference of €20,000 for a property worth €400,000.
Especially in the case of inheritance, a neutral valuation is crucial to prevent disputes within the community of heirs and to ensure a fair distribution of the estate. The tax office often uses standard procedures that may not take into account individual value-reducing aspects of your property. A professional appraisal can often demonstrate a lower yet more realistic value by 10-20%. A quick online assessment can provide an initial indication. This first step lays the groundwork for a smooth further process.
The first step: Gather the necessary documents for a smooth process
A well-prepared start significantly accelerates the entire evaluation process. For a sound property valuation, an expert requires a set of documents. Compiling these documents can reduce the processing time by up to 7 days.
The most important documents generally include:
Current land register extract: No older than 3 months, provides information about ownership and encumbrances.
Cadastral map/site plan: Shows the exact location and boundaries of the property.
Construction drawings/floor plans: Scaled plans of all floors (often at a scale of 1:100).
Living space calculation: Detailed breakdown of the chargeable living spaces.
Energy performance certificate: Legally required for sale or new rental, provides information about energy efficiency.
Proof of modernisations: Invoices and records from the last 10-15 years.
For condominiums additionally: deed of partition, minutes of the last 3 owners' meetings, current service charge statement.
Many of these documents can be requested from the relevant authorities (e.g. building authority, land registry office). A structured first step is invaluable here. The completeness of these documents is crucial for the accuracy of the valuation and a swift progression.
Overview of appraisal methods: Which method suits your property?
In Germany, three standardised valuation methods are defined by the Real Estate Valuation Ordinance (ImmoWertV). Choosing the right method depends on the type and use of your property and is crucial for a market-appropriate result. An expert often selects a combination to secure the value.
The three main methods are:
Comparative Value Method: Here, sale prices of comparable, recently sold properties are used. This method is particularly suitable for owner-occupied houses and flats in areas with sufficient comparable properties. Up to 80% of privately used properties are valued this way.
Income Value Method: This method is relevant for investment properties such as rented multi-family houses or commercial properties. It is based on the sustainable rental income and the property yield rate. The accuracy depends largely on the data quality of the rental income.
Substance Value Method: Here, the construction costs of the building and the value of the land (standard land value) are the main focus. It is often applied to owner-occupied properties for which no comparable values are available, or for special properties. Depreciation due to age and damage is considered here.
A qualified appraiser will select and transparently apply the appropriate method(s). For an initial assessment, our ImmoGPT chat can be helpful. Understanding these methods will help you better comprehend the appraisal.
The assessment process: From the inspection to the final report
A typical assessment process by a certified expert follows a structured procedure to ensure objectivity and traceability. This process usually takes 2 to 4 weeks from assignment to the completed report, while a brief report can often be produced within 5-7 working days.
The core phases include:
Clarification of assignment and document review: Definition of the valuation objective and review of the provided documents. Missing documents are often obtained with the assistance of the expert.
On-site inspection: A thorough inspection of the property is essential. Here, the building fabric, condition, facilities, and any defects are recorded in detail. This usually takes 1-2 hours.
Data collection and analysis: Research of current market data, standard land values, and comparable properties.
Valuation: Application of the chosen valuation methods and calculation of the market value.
Report preparation: Detailed and comprehensible documentation of all steps, data, and results. A full report often encompasses 20-30 pages or more.
Delivery and discussion: The completed report is delivered and the results are explained.
A smooth assessment process is the goal. This structured procedure ensures the quality and reliability of the report, which is particularly important when presenting to authorities or courts.
Kurzgutachten versus Vollgutachten: What do you really need?
Not every situation requires a comprehensive full appraisal. The choice between a short appraisal and a full appraisal (market value report according to § 194 BauGB) depends on the intended use. A short appraisal is often available from around 500 euros, whereas a full appraisal can cost 1,500 euros or more, sometimes 0.5% to 1.5% of the property's value.
A short appraisal is a more compact assessment (around 10-15 pages) and is usually sufficient for:
Internal asset overview.
Initial pricing for sales intentions (private).
Feasibility check of a purchase offer.
A full appraisal is more detailed (often 20-30+ pages) and necessary for:
Inheritance settlements and divorce proceedings.
Submission to tax authorities (e.g., to determine a lower common value for inheritance tax purposes).
Legal disputes.
Loan assessments by banks.
Important: Online valuations are generally not recognized by tax authorities. Carefully consider the purpose to avoid unnecessary costs. A clearly defined appraisal scope saves resources. Choosing the right appraisal is an important step in a straightforward valuation process.
Costs and duration: What should you expect from a property valuation?
The costs of a property valuation vary greatly and depend on the scope of the report, the type of property, and the effort involved. A simple online tool might be free, but it only provides a rough estimate and is not recognised by authorities. A short report from an expert often starts at around 500 Euros.
For a legally valid full report according to § 194 BauGB, you should expect costs between 1,500 and 2,500 Euros, and significantly more for complex or very high-value properties – often 0.5% to 1.5% of the determined market value. The duration for a short report is usually 5 to 10 working days after the inspection and submission of all documents. A full report can take 3 to 6 weeks. Transparent fixed prices, as offered by some surveyors, protect against surprises. Ask for a detailed quote. An online valuation service can provide initial guidance, but it does not replace a professional report. This information helps you to realistically assess the financial and time framework.
einfacher-bewertungsweg
The path to a well-informed property valuation doesn't have to be complicated. Auctoa is your digital companion, providing you with an easy valuation process. Our AI-driven analyses and experienced, certified expert partners ensure an objective and swift valuation. We understand the needs of heirs and owners, and place great value on transparency and traceability.
You benefit from a clearly structured process that saves you time and effort. Our valuations provide you with a solid basis for your decisions—whether selling, inheriting, or asset planning. With our ImmoGPT, you can clarify initial questions and quickly gain orientation. Our experts are available for a detailed analysis and a reliable report. Over 90% of our customers appreciate the quick and straightforward handling. Get in touch now without obligation, or request your free offer. We make your valuation journey easy and secure.
Conclusion: Gaining clarity through a simple evaluation path
Why is a straightforward valuation process so important for heirs?
A straightforward and transparent valuation process helps heirs quickly and objectively determine the value of a property. This is crucial for fair inheritance distribution, the correct calculation of inheritance tax (often, a valuation can achieve a lower tax burden), and to avoid conflicts.
What documents are absolutely necessary for a quick property valuation?
At a minimum, a current land register excerpt, floor plans/building drawings, and ideally an energy performance certificate are required. The more complete the documents, the faster and more accurate the valuation.
Can I have my property evaluated online for a first impression?
Yes, online valuation tools like Auctoa's ImmoGPT can provide an initial, quick assessment of market value. However, for official purposes (e.g., tax office), a qualified expert report is usually required.
What is the difference between a short report and a full report?
A short report (approx. 10-15 pages) is usually for private purposes, such as an initial price finding. A full report (often 20-30+ pages) is more detailed, legally reliable, and needed for court or tax matters.
How does Auctoa assist me with a straightforward valuation process?
Auctoa offers AI-supported analyses for quick orientation and connects certified partner experts for reliable valuations. We guide you through a structured process to make the valuation process as simple and transparent as possible for you.
Are the costs of a valuation report tax-deductible?
Yes, in the case of inheritance, the costs for a market value report, which serves to determine the estate value, can generally be deducted from the inheritance tax as estate liabilities.
Additional useful links
The Statistical Federal Office offers comprehensive information on construction prices and the property price index in Germany.
Tables on house and land prices can also be found on the website of the Statistical Federal Office.
The Deutsche Bundesbank provides an indicator system for the residential real estate market, summarising key figures.
Statistics on real estate and construction performance prices are also available on the website of the Deutsche Bundesbank.
The central land value information system of the federal states, BORIS, enables access to current land values.
The Association of German Pfandbrief Banks (VDP) publishes its own property price index, reflecting market developments.
The Federal Agency for Real Estate Tasks (BImA) manages federal properties and offers insights into their areas of responsibility.
The Council of Economic Experts publishes an annual report on economic development, which also illuminates the real estate market.
FAQ
Why is a straightforward evaluation process so important for heirs?
A straightforward and transparent appraisal method helps heirs to quickly and objectively determine the value of a property. This is crucial for a fair distribution of inheritance, the accurate calculation of inheritance tax (often, a lower tax liability can be achieved through an appraisal), and to avoid conflicts.
What documents are absolutely necessary for a quick property valuation?
At a minimum, a current land register excerpt, floor plans/building drawings, and ideally an energy certificate are required. The more complete the documents, the quicker and more accurate the assessment.
Can I also have my property assessed online for a first impression?
Yes, online evaluation tools like Auctoa's ImmoGPT can provide an initial, quick estimate of the market value. However, for official purposes (e.g., tax office), a qualified appraisal by an expert is usually necessary.
What is the difference between a short appraisal and a full appraisal?
A brief appraisal (around 10-15 pages) is usually intended for private purposes, such as an initial price assessment. A full appraisal (often 20-30+ pages) is more detailed, legally compliant, and required for legal or tax matters.
How does Auctoa help me with a simple assessment process?
Auctoa provides AI-powered analyses for quick orientation and connects certified partner experts for reliable appraisals. We guide you through a structured process to make the evaluation journey as simple and transparent as possible for you.
Are the costs for a valuation report tax-deductible?
Yes, in the event of inheritance, the costs for a valuation report used to determine the estate's value can generally be deducted as liabilities of the estate from the inheritance tax.
