The notary is not a formality but the point of no return: after signing the contract is binding. The work is beforehand: review the draft, check price and terms, understand every clause. The priority notice and paying strictly on the notary instruction are two safeguards.
Buying: Notary and Purchase Contract
In Germany a notary must certify a property sale. They read the contract aloud but protect the transaction, not you specifically: study the draft in advance.
✓ Verified: 18/07/2026
WHAT TO DO
COSTS
- €Notary + register ~1.5–2% of price
› Details and tips
👨🏻💻
Max recommends:
I read the draft twice and noted 5 questions — the appointment was clear. One clause on the key-handover date was fixed in advance, else move-in would have slipped by a month.
👩🏼💼
Lea recommends:
Never pay before the due-date notice, even if the seller pushes. That written notary release is the only safe signal to pay.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Does the notary protect my interests? ▾
They are neutral and ensure legality, not your advantage. Read the draft yourself (or with a lawyer): they explain unclear clauses but need not rewrite them.
What is the priority notice (Auflassungsvormerkung)? ▾
An entry in the land register reserving your ownership right from signing. Without it the seller could theoretically sell twice — your key protection.
When do I transfer the money? ▾
Only after the notary due-date notice, when the priority notice is in place and third-party charges cleared. Paying earlier loses your leverage.