A resale flat — what to watch out for

Legal status is the foundation

The most important step is analysing the land and mortgage register. Check who the owner is, whether the data matches the seller, and whether the encumbrances section shows a mortgage, an easement or other entries. The land and mortgage register also reveals warnings about ongoing proceedings.

Note the basis on which the seller acquired the flat, for example inheritance or gift, because this can carry additional risks. It is worth asking for documents confirming ownership and certificates of no arrears.

Debt and encumbrances

A resale flat may be encumbered with debts. Ask for a certificate from the housing community or cooperative confirming no arrears in payments and the current state of utility settlements. Check that no third parties are registered as resident in the flat, because deregistering them after purchase can be problematic.

If the flat is encumbered with a mortgage, clarify how it will be repaid and removed. A safe solution is to settle the transaction in a way that guarantees repayment of the creditor and the release of the mortgage, which is worth writing into the agreement.

The technical condition of the flat

Inspect the flat thoroughly, and preferably several times, at different times of day. Check the electrical and plumbing installations, the condition of the windows, traces of damp and mould, and the quality of the heating. Note the age of the building and the condition of the stairwell, roof and facade, because this affects future renovation costs.

It is worth asking for the actual utility and heating bills from recent months. They give a real picture of the running costs that are not visible at first glance during a viewing.

The community and the surroundings

The situation of the housing community or cooperative matters a great deal. Ask about the level of the service charges, the state of the renovation fund, planned investments and any debt of the community. A major renovation of the facade or roof can mean charge increases soon after the purchase.

Also get to know the surroundings: access to transport, shops, schools and the development plans for the area. The secondary market lets you assess the real neighbourhood, which is a major advantage over buying at the construction stage.

Summary: thoroughness pays off

Buying a flat on the secondary market requires thorough verification. The land and mortgage register, the absence of debt and encumbrances, the technical condition and the community's health are areas that must not be skipped. Devoting time to checking these elements protects you from problems that only surface after moving in.