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buy an energy-efficient house
Buying an energy-efficient house is an investment in the future. It not only offers a comfortable living environment but also saves you money and protects the environment. But what should you consider when buying? What funding options are available? And how do you find the right property? You will find answers to these questions and more in this article. If you would like personal advice, contact us here.
An energy-efficient house offers long-term financial advantages through reduced energy costs and a potential increase in property value. Take advantage of the benefits of an energy-efficient home.
The current changes in legislation regarding real estate commission provide financial relief for buyers. Actively negotiate the real estate agent's fees and save up to 50% on the commission.
Plan your financing carefully and use government funding programmes for energy-efficient building. Reduce your carbon footprint and benefit from a sustainable home.
Do you dream of a home that not only meets your living needs but also minimises your carbon footprint? Purchasing an energy-efficient house is more than just an investment in your own four walls; it's a decision for a sustainable future. In this comprehensive guide, you will learn everything you need to know about buying an energy-efficient house, from the basic features to financial aspects such as estate agent fees and funding opportunities. Discover how having an energy-efficient home can help you not just preserve the environment but also significantly reduce your energy costs in the long run.
What defines an energy-efficient house?
An energy-efficient house is characterised by high energy efficiency. This is achieved through a combination of excellent thermal insulation, modern heating technology, and the use of renewable energy sources. Compared to conventional buildings, energy-efficient houses consume significantly less energy, which benefits both the environment and your wallet. The focus is on sustainable construction, the use of environmentally friendly materials, and minimising energy consumption.
Why buy an energy-efficient house?
Purchasing an energy-efficient house offers numerous advantages. In addition to reducing your carbon footprint, you benefit from lower heating costs and the potential increase in property value. Energy-efficient houses are beneficial not only for the environment but also for your finances. With lower energy consumption, you save money in the long term and contribute to climate protection. Learn more about sustainable building and the benefits of buying a home with climate protection in mind.
Estate agent fees and their significance when buying a house
An important aspect of buying a house is the estate agent's fee. Since December 2020, there are new legal regulations that rearrange the distribution of agent costs between buyer and seller. Below, you will learn who pays the agent's fee, what legal conditions apply, and how you can negotiate the agent costs. This article provides you with a detailed overview of the estate agent's fee and its impact on your house purchase. Also, learn about the general aspects of buying a house.
The broker's commission is a significant cost factor when buying a house. It is important to know the legal basics and current regulations in order to save costs and secure the best possible terms. This section highlights the definition of the broker's commission, the new regulations since 2020, and the special cases where the new rules do not apply. A comprehensive understanding of these aspects helps you to make informed decisions and plan your finances effectively.
What is the broker's commission?
The broker's commission is a fee for brokering a property. It becomes due when a broker successfully brokers a property and a purchase contract comes into existence. The legal foundations are set out in the German Civil Code (BGB) in paragraphs § 656a to § 656d. Since December 2020, there are statutory regulations that reorganise the distribution of broker costs between buyer and seller. These regulations are intended to provide financial relief to the buyer and ensure more transparency.
Who pays the broker's commission?
Since 2020, the so-called principal of the first order with exceptions applies. This means that, in principle, the person who commissions the broker pays the broker's commission. However, there is the possibility of a split between buyer and seller (double commission), whereby the buyer has to bear a maximum of 50% of the commission. This new regulation is intended to ensure that buyers no longer have to bear the entire broker's commission alone. The details of the commission split are regulated in the BGB and must be clearly documented in the brokerage contract. Further information on the broker's commission can be found at Dr. Klein.
Special cases and exceptions
There are certain cases where the new rules on the broker's commission do not apply. This particularly concerns multi-family houses, commercial properties and plots as well as purchases by entrepreneurs or investors. In these cases, the old regulations still apply, where the broker's commission is freely negotiable and can also be fully borne by the buyer. It is therefore important to be well-informed in advance about which regulations apply in the specific case. The Information from Immobilienscout24 provides further details on this.
A deep understanding of the current legal situation is crucial for knowing your rights and obligations when purchasing an energy-efficient house and negotiating the best financial terms. The Civil Code (BGB) plays a central role here, particularly the paragraphs that regulate the broker’s commission. This section explains the relevant paragraphs, the role of the 'Bestellerprinzip' (customer principle), and the regional differences in commission rates to provide you with a clear overview.
The Civil Code (BGB)
The relevant paragraphs in the BGB are § 656a, § 656c, and § 656d. § 656a regulates the written form requirement for brokerage agreements, which means that brokerage agreements for the purchase of apartments or houses must be concluded in text form (e.g., email, SMS, WhatsApp). § 656c contains regulations on the shared commission, i.e., sharing the commission between buyer and seller, and § 656d deals with cost-sharing options when an exclusive contract is in place. These paragraphs form the legal basis for the broker’s commission and should be known to you before concluding a brokerage agreement.
The Role of the 'Bestellerprinzip'
The 'Bestellerprinzip' states that the person who commissions the broker pays. However, there are exceptions and design options. For instance, an internal commission (paid by the seller) can be distinguished from an external commission (paid by the buyer). The Bestellerprinzip does not apply unconditionally since up to 50% of the brokerage fees can be transferred to the other party if agreed in the purchase contract. It is important to know these regulations to better assess your negotiating position. Further insights into the topic can be found in Dr. Klein’s FAQ.
Regional Differences and Market Norms
The commissions by federal state vary. The usual commission rates range from 5.95% to 7.14% including VAT, with rates tending to be higher in cities like Hamburg, Berlin, and Munich. However, there are always opportunities for negotiation. It is advisable to inform yourself about the local commission rates in advance and use these as a basis for negotiation. The actual amount of the commission is not legally fixed and can therefore be individually negotiated. The information from Fischer Real Estate provides an overview of the regional differences.
The broker's commission is often a significant cost factor when buying a house. However, with the right preparation and negotiation strategy, you can significantly reduce the brokerage costs. This section offers you valuable tips and strategies on how to optimally prepare for the negotiation, successfully conduct the negotiation itself, and explore alternatives to broker commissions.
Preparation for the negotiation
Good preparation is essential for a successful negotiation. Research the usual local commission rates and compare different estate agencies. Gather information about the services provided by the broker and evaluate whether the requested commission is fair. Use online tools and comparison sites to get an overview of market prices. The better informed you are, the more confidently you can enter the negotiation. The Süddeutsche Zeitung also offers information on the topic of broker commissions.
The negotiation itself
During the negotiation, open communication is crucial. Address the commission openly and question high commission demands. Show willingness to cooperate, but also make it clear that you are informed about market prices. Aim to find a solution that is acceptable to both parties. A good negotiation is based on mutual respect and the willingness to reach a fair agreement. It is also advisable to set a limit in advance and not to exceed it during the negotiation.
Alternatives to broker commissions
An alternative to buying a house with a broker is to purchase a house without a broker. This approach has both advantages and disadvantages. On one hand, you save the broker's commission, but on the other hand, you must invest more initiative and time. You will have to undertake the property search, organize viewings, and conduct contract negotiations yourself. If you are willing to make this effort, buying a house without a broker can be a rewarding alternative. However, keep in mind that an experienced broker has a wide network and expertise that you may lack.
Financing an energy-efficient house is a complex subject that requires careful planning and budgeting. In addition to the purchase price, incidental costs and estate agent fees must also be considered. This section provides you with an overview of the total costs, various financing options, and the role of incidental costs to help you optimally plan your budget.
Keep an Eye on Total Costs
It is important to keep an eye on the total costs, including the purchase price, incidental costs, and estate agent fees. Create a detailed financing plan that takes all cost factors into account. Also, consider unforeseen expenses to avoid financial bottlenecks. A realistic assessment of the total costs is crucial for successful financing. The incidental costs can make up a significant part of the total costs and should therefore not be underestimated.
Financing Options
There are various financing options, including loans, grants, and equity. Take advantage of KfW programmes for energy-efficient construction to benefit from low-interest loans and grants. Find out about the different grant programmes and check which ones are suitable for you. A high equity share reduces the loan amount and lowers the monthly instalments. Solid financing is the basis for the successful purchase of an energy-efficient house. Information on grant programmes can be found on the Federal Ministry of Finance's website, although it may be restricted by bot detection.
The Role of Incidental Costs
The incidental costs include, among others, the property transfer tax, notary fees, and estate agent fees as part of the incidental costs. Plan these costs carefully and create a realistic budget. The incidental costs can vary depending on the federal state and purchase price. It is advisable to find out about the exact costs in advance and include them in your financial planning. Detailed planning helps you avoid financial surprises and successfully complete the purchase of your energy-efficient house.
Practical examples and case studies provide valuable insights into the world of property buying, illustrating how other buyers have successfully negotiated estate agent commissions or managed to buy a house without an agent. This section presents you with concrete examples to help you develop your own strategy and learn from the experiences of others.
Example Calculation: Estate Agent Commission
Let's look at an example calculation: With a purchase price of €500,000 and a commission of 3.57% for both buyer and seller, a detailed breakdown of the costs is provided. In this case, the commission amounts to €17,850 for each party. This example illustrates the financial burden associated with the estate agent's commission and highlights the importance of considering these costs in financial planning. It is crucial to be aware that the estate agent's commission can constitute a significant portion of the incidental costs.
Case Study: Successful Negotiation of the Estate Agent Commission
A case study demonstrates how a buyer was able to reduce costs. Through clever strategies and tactics, the buyer managed to lower the estate agent's commission by several thousand euros. The results and savings are impressive and show that good preparation and negotiation skills can pay off. The buyer thoroughly researched the local commission rates in advance and used this knowledge to negotiate with confidence. He argued that the agent's services did not justify the asking price, thus achieving a reduction in the commission.
Case Study: Buying a House Without an Agent
Another case study highlights the experiences and challenges involved in buying a house without an agent. The time investment and initiative required are high, but there are also advantages compared to buying with an agent. The buyer saved the agent's commission but also had to invest more time and energy in property searches, viewings, and contract negotiations. The case study shows that buying a house without an agent can be an option if you are willing to put in the extra effort and have sufficient expertise.
Purchasing an energy-efficient home is a significant investment that requires careful consideration of many aspects. This checklist helps you stay organised and ensures you take all necessary steps to minimise agent fees and successfully complete the purchase.
Before Signing with an Agent
Before entering into an agency contract, thorough research and comparison are essential. Gather information about agents, check references, and compare the services offered. Ensure the agent has a valid licence and a good reputation. Ask for references and contact past clients to understand the agent’s working methods. A careful comparison will help you find the right agent for your needs.
During Negotiations
During negotiations, open communication and clear agreements are crucial. Negotiate the commission rate, establish the scope of services, and make a written agreement. Ensure all agreements are documented in writing to avoid misunderstandings. Clarify all outstanding issues and do not feel pressured. Clear and transparent communication is the foundation for a successful partnership.
After the Purchase Contract is Finalised
After the purchase contract is concluded, you should verify the due date of the commission, keep evidence of payments, and check invoices. Make sure the commission is only due once the purchase contract is legally binding and all conditions are met. Carefully retain all evidence of payments and verify the accuracy of invoices. In case of discrepancies, promptly contact the agent to resolve the matter.
Purchasing an energy-efficient house is an investment in the future, offering both ecological and economic advantages. It's important to understand the key points, leverage negotiation opportunities, and keep an eye on overall costs to benefit from this decision in the long term.
Summary of Key Points
It's crucial to understand the importance of current legislation, utilize negotiation opportunities, and maintain awareness of overall costs. Recent legislative changes regarding estate agent commission aim to relieve buyers financially and ensure greater transparency. Use negotiation opportunities to minimize agent costs and achieve the best possible terms. Careful planning and budgeting will help you avoid financial surprises and successfully complete the purchase of your energy-efficient home.
Future Prospects
The increasing importance of energy efficiency and potential changes in estate agent legislation will impact the real estate market in the future. Energy-efficient homes are becoming increasingly attractive due to rising energy costs and growing environmental awareness. It is thus advisable to engage with the topic early and recognize the benefits of an energy-efficient home. Estate agent legislation might further evolve in the future to strengthen consumer protection and ensure greater transparency.
Final Recommendations
Educate yourself early, seek professional advice, and plan carefully to ensure a successful purchase of an energy-efficient house. Comprehensive information is the foundation for a well-informed decision. Utilize the expertise of professionals for guidance in selecting the right energy-efficient house and financing options. Careful planning and budgeting will help you minimize financial risks and successfully complete the purchase of your dream home.
Are you ready to take the next step and realize your dream of an energy-efficient home? We at Auctoa are happy to assist you in finding the right property and utilizing the best financing options. Contact us today for a non-binding consultation and let's work together to create your path to an energy-efficient home. Contact us here!
Buying an energy-efficient house is a forward-thinking decision that not only provides you with financial benefits but also makes a significant contribution to environmental protection. Take advantage of the various funding opportunities and consult experts to find your dream home. Buy an energy-efficient house – invest in a sustainable and energy-efficient future now!
The decision to choose an energy-efficient house is an investment in the future. Not only do you reduce your energy costs and ensure a comfortable living environment, but you also make an important contribution to environmental protection.
We from Auctoa are happy to support you in assessing your property and help you determine the value of your energy-efficient house. Contact us today for a non-binding consultation and embark on an energy-efficient future with us! Contact us here!
Bundesfinanzministerium provides information on broker commissions and the associated tax aspects, even if this is possibly limited by bot detection.
Dr. Klein offers detailed information and FAQs on broker commissions when buying property.
Immobilienscout24 provides comprehensive information on broker commissions when selling property.
Fischer Immobilien offers an overview of regional differences in broker commissions within Germany.
Süddeutsche Zeitung provides information and articles on the topic of broker commissions when purchasing a house.
What exactly defines an energy-efficient house?
An energy-efficient house is characterised by high energy efficiency, achieved through excellent thermal insulation, modern heating technology, and the use of renewable energy sources. This results in significantly lower energy consumption compared to conventional buildings.
What financial benefits does buying an energy-efficient house offer?
In addition to reducing energy costs, you benefit from a potential increase in property value and possible government incentives for energy-efficient construction. In the long term, you save money and contribute to climate protection.
How do the new legal regulations on estate agent commission affect the purchase of an energy-efficient house?
Since December 2020, the so-called principle of the party who orders pays, with exceptions has been in effect. Generally, the person who hires the agent pays the commission. However, there is the possibility of a split between buyer and seller (split commission), with the buyer having to cover a maximum of 50% of the commission.
Which sections of the BGB are relevant when buying an energy-efficient house?
The relevant sections of the BGB are § 656a, § 656c and § 656d. These govern the written form requirement for estate agent contracts, the split commission, and the options for cost-sharing.
How can I minimise estate agent costs when buying an energy-efficient house?
By preparing well, researching local customary commissions, and comparing different estate agencies, you can significantly reduce estate agent costs. Open communication and questioning high commission demands are also important.
What financing options are available for an energy-efficient house?
There are various financing options, including loans, grants, and personal capital. Take advantage of the KfW funding programmes for energy-efficient construction to benefit from low-interest loans and grants.
What role do ancillary costs play when buying an energy-efficient house?
The ancillary costs include, among other things, the property transfer tax, notary fees, and the estate agent commission as part of the ancillary costs. Plan these costs carefully and create a realistic budget.
Is it possible to buy an energy-efficient house without an estate agent?
Yes, buying a house without an estate agent is possible, but it has both advantages and disadvantages. You save on the estate agent commission but need to invest more initiative and time.
