A nice renovation hides what the papers decide. The land register says who owns it and what is charged; the energy certificate and minutes say what you will pay after buying. Find properties on ImmoScout24, but sign only after checking the documents.
Buying: Vetting the Property
Before signing, check the papers, not just the decor: the land register (owner and charges), energy certificate, declaration of division and owners-meeting minutes.
✓ Verified: 18/07/2026
WHAT TO DO
DOCUMENTS 4
› Details and tips
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Max recommends:
I got the register extract before the notary and found an uncancelled charge — the seller cleared it at the sale, else I would have bought someone else debt. Section III beats a new kitchen.
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Lea recommends:
In a flat I first read 3 years of meeting minutes: they show the building mood and coming special levies. An empty reserve fund in an old building — negotiate or walk.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Who gets the land-register extract and how? ▾
The buyer with legitimate interest — via the notary at purchase or yourself at the registry. Check section III: the seller open charges must be cancelled at the sale.
How important is the energy certificate? ▾
Very: an old class G-H house means high costs and likely a GEG renovation duty after purchase. That is thousands of euros for your budget.
What to check specifically in a flat? ▾
The reserve fund and the latest minutes: if roof or lift needs work, the new owner pays the special levy. An empty reserve is a red flag.