Property Valuation
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Are you facing the challenge of having the value of your property accurately determined? A professional appraisal search is key to a well-founded evaluation. Learn how to effectively select the right expert for your needs.
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The qualification of the expert (independent, publicly appointed, certified according to DIN EN ISO/IEC 17024) must match the intended use of the report; higher qualifications are required for courts and authorities.
The costs for property appraisals are freely negotiable and depend on the type (short appraisal starting at approx. €500, full appraisal 0.5-1.5% of the property's value) and complexity.
A systematic search for experts involves needs analysis, qualification checks, obtaining references, and comparing several offers to find the right expert.
Determining the correct property value is often complex and emotional, especially in inheritance matters or when making sales decisions. An accurate assessment by a qualified appraiser not only provides you with security but also forms a solid basis for financial decisions. This article guides you through the process of finding an appraiser, explains the different types of appraisers and shows you how to optimally allocate up to 1.5% of the property's value for appraisal costs. With the right strategy, you'll find an expert who evaluates your property objectively and transparently.
The search for the right property appraiser, often referred to as the appraiser search, is a fundamental step for property owners and investors. An inaccurate valuation can lead to financial losses amounting to several thousand euros. The German real estate market is also showing price increases of up to 3% for 2025, which highlights the need for accurate valuations.
A qualified appraiser provides an objective assessment of the market value according to § 194 BauGB. This is especially crucial in cases of inheritance, divorce, or for tax purposes, where accurate valuations can prevent conflicts and ensure fair distribution. Investing in an expert is worthwhile to prevent costly mistakes.
When searching for experts, you will encounter various titles whose meanings are crucial. The title “real estate appraiser” is not legally protected in Germany. This means that, in theory, anyone can call themselves this. However, for a reliable assessment, you should rely on qualified experts.
There are essentially three types of appraisers:
Independent real estate appraisers: These appraisers are not required to provide formal qualifications. Their appraisals often do not hold up in court or with authorities. They can be used for initial guidance when selling a property, with costs for a brief appraisal starting at around 500 euros.
Publicly appointed and sworn (ö. b.u.v.) real estate appraisers: These experts are examined and sworn in by the Chamber of Industry and Commerce (IHK). Their appraisals are recognised in court and are suitable for legal disputes, such as in cases of divorce or inheritance. The IHK appointment signifies particular expertise and personal suitability.
State-approved real estate appraisers: These appraisers are also IHK-tested but additionally serve a state authority. Their assessments are acceptable to tax offices.
Certified real estate appraisers (e.g., according to DIN EN ISO/IEC 17024): These appraisers have demonstrated their competence through an accredited body according to international standards. Certifications like those according to DIN EN ISO/IEC 17024 signal high expertise and independence. Appraisals by these experts are often recognised by courts, banks, and tax offices as equivalent to those by ö.b.u.v. experts.
The choice of the right appraiser greatly depends on the intended use of the appraisal. For an initial value assessment when selling, an independent appraiser or a brief appraisal may suffice, whereas for legal disputes, a publicly appointed or certified expert is necessary. Careful selection is an important step in your search for an appraiser.
In the course of your search for an expert, you will encounter various types of reports. The two most common are the brief report and the full report (also known as a market value report). A brief report is a compact valuation, often 10-15 pages long, and serves as an initial guide, for example, when selling a property. The costs for this start at around 500 euros.
A full report is significantly more comprehensive (often 20-30 pages or more) and is mandatory for legal or official purposes. It includes a detailed description of the property, a comprehensive market analysis, and a transparent derivation of the market value. Only publicly appointed, state-recognised experts or those certified according to standards such as DIN EN ISO/IEC 17024 are allowed to prepare legally binding full reports. The costs for a full report can be up to 1.5% of the property's value. For a property worth 300,000 euros, this would be up to 4,500 euros. Determine the exact requirements before obtaining a report.
The costs for a property appraisal are an important factor when searching for an appraiser. Since the abolition of the fee schedule for architects and engineers (HOAI) for appraisal services in 2009 (for binding fees, finally adjusted in 2019/2021), fees are freely negotiable. A summary appraisal is available from around 500 euros. For a property value of, for example, 400,000 euros, the costs for a full appraisal can range between 2,000 and 4,000 euros (approximately 0.5% to 1% of the value).
The following factors significantly influence the costs:
Type of appraisal: A full appraisal is more expensive than a summary appraisal. A simple summary appraisal can cost between 500 and 900 euros.
Property value and type: Complex or high-value properties require more effort. The costs for a full appraisal can amount to 0.5% to 1.5% of the market value.
Effort and complexity: If extensive research or the assessment of rights and encumbrances is necessary, the price increases.
Appraiser's qualifications: Higher qualified appraisers (e.g., officially appointed, certified) can demand higher fees.
Always obtain multiple offers and, if possible, agree on a fixed price to avoid surprises. A transparent cost breakdown is a sign of reliability. Remember that the costs for the appraisal are typically borne by the client. For a preliminary assessment, you can also use our appraiser booking service.
A successful search for an expert requires a systematic approach. Follow these five steps to find the ideal expert for your property:
Clarify requirements: What is the purpose of the expert report you need? (e.g., sale, inheritance, court). This will determine the type of report and the necessary qualifications of the expert. For legal disputes, a full report from an officially appointed or certified expert is often required.
Check qualifications: Look for recognized certifications (e.g., IHK, DIN EN ISO/IEC 17024), work experience, and references. Ask about membership in professional associations.
Local expertise: An expert with knowledge of the local property market can assess the value of your property more accurately. Inquire about local experience.
Sample reports and initial consultation: Request a anonymized sample report to get an idea of the expert's working style. Conduct an initial consultation to assess their approach and compatibility.
Compare offers: Obtain at least three detailed quotes. Consider not only the price but also the scope of services and processing time. A thorough report requires time, often four to eight weeks.
A careful search for experts, especially for high-value properties, is worthwhile. Take the time for a careful selection.
With digitalisation, online evaluation tools are gaining in popularity. These can provide a quick first and often free orientation about the possible value of a property. However, for a binding or even legally sound evaluation, an qualified surveyor on-site is essential.
Online calculators often use simplified algorithms and can only inadequately take into account individual characteristics of a property, such as specific modernisations or hidden defects. A personal surveyor, on the other hand, conducts a detailed inspection of the property, checks all relevant documents and incorporates their expertise and market knowledge into the evaluation. For a well-founded decision that may have financial consequences of tens of thousands of euros, the accuracy of an individual report by an independent surveyor is usually indispensable.
The search for a surveyor can be time-consuming and complex. Auctoa supports you as a digital companion in finding the right, qualified expert for your property valuation. We understand the need for quick, reliable market values without conflicts of interest. Use our expertise for a data-driven recommendation.
Whether you need a quick assessment or a legally sound full appraisal - we help you simplify the process. Consider an Auctoa valuation or use our ImmoGPT chat to clarify initial questions and lay the foundation for a successful property valuation. Get in touch now without obligation or request a free quote directly.
A thorough search for an expert is the crucial first step towards a reliable property valuation and protects you from costly misjudgments. Investing time and money in a qualified expert who can prepare either a brief or full report depending on your needs pays off through increased security and a well-founded decision-making basis. Look for proven qualifications, such as a public appointment or certification according to DIN EN ISO/IEC 17024, and obtain multiple offers. This ensures that the determined value of your property—whether for sale, inheritance, or a legal dispute—is based on a solid and comprehensible foundation. Your property deserves an evaluation with expertise and foresight.
The Federal Statistical Office provides comprehensive information on construction prices and real estate price indices in Germany.
Tables on house and building land prices can also be found at the Federal Statistical Office.
The Deutsche Bundesbank provides data on real estate and construction service prices.
An indicator system for the residential real estate market is offered by the Deutsche Bundesbank.
The BVS - Professional Association of Independent and Freelance Experts in the Construction Industry e.V. is an important contact for independent and freelance experts in the construction industry.
The BORIS - Real Estate Guideline Value Information System offers official land guideline values for various regions.
How long does it take to prepare a property appraisal?
Preparing a comprehensive appraisal usually takes four to eight weeks, depending on the scope and complexity of the assignment, as well as the appraiser's workload.
Is the title 'property appraiser' protected?
No, the title 'property appraiser' or 'expert' is not legally protected in Germany. Therefore, it's important to look for recognised qualifications and certifications.
What documents does a property appraiser need?
Typically, a current land registry extract, building plans, living space calculations, energy certificate, land map, and possibly rental agreements or partition declarations are needed. The exact scope depends on the appraisal.
Can I deduct the costs of a property appraisal for tax purposes?
Usually not. An exception may exist in the case of inheritance disputes if the appraisal serves the equitable distribution of the estate and is considered a liability of the estate.
What is the difference between a short appraisal and a full appraisal?
A short appraisal (approx. 10-15 pages) provides an initial value estimate and is more affordable. A full appraisal (often 20-30+ pages) is detailed, legally robust, and produced by qualified appraisers.
What should I consider when choosing an appraiser for an inheritance matter?
For inheritances, especially when disputes may arise or the tax office is involved, you should choose a publicly appointed and sworn or DIN EN ISO/IEC 17024 certified expert who produces a full appraisal.
