Purchase costs in Germany: what to budget for
Transfer tax, notary, land registry and agent commission — the incidental costs and how they differ by federal state.
Published by: HomesInGermany
How high are the total purchase costs?
As a guide: around 8–15% of the price, depending on the federal state and whether a buyer-side commission applies. For your specific property I break the items down for you in advance.
The four items
On top of the purchase price you pay: real-estate transfer tax, notary fees, land-registry fees and — depending on the property — agent commission. Together these incidental costs in Germany typically fall in the region of 8–15% of the price.
Transfer tax is the largest item and is set by each federal state, so rates differ markedly — Hesse (Frankfurt) is higher than, say, Bavaria. Notary and registry fees follow the statutory fee schedule and together usually come to roughly 1.5–2%.
New build from a developer
On many new-build projects the developer carries the marketing cost, so no separate agent commission falls on the buyer. Whether that applies to a specific project, I tell you up front and in writing.
Note: the ranges above are orientation values. Binding figures appear in the draft contract and the notary's cost schedule — and tax questions belong with a tax adviser, not an agent.
Frequently asked questions
＋ How high are the total purchase costs?
As a guide: around 8–15% of the price, depending on the federal state and whether a buyer-side commission applies. For your specific property I break the items down for you in advance.
Tell me what you're looking for
I'll come back with matching properties and projects — non-binding, in your language.
What you should know before you buy
Buying property in Germany: the process for overseas buyers
Buying without travelling: power of attorney and remote purchase
Financing and tax for overseas buyers
These pages are general information and are not legal or tax advice. Cost and tax figures are indicative; the purchase contract and the notary's cost schedule are what bind.
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