The internet has cut out the need for a real estate agent, unless you’re selling lots of properties or have better things to do with your time. Generally, buyers have to pay a real estate agent’s fee. If you choose to have an agent sell the property, only one will take over the listing, though buyers may bring their own agent with them – and pay for both.

If you choose not to use an agent, take out an ad in one of the local papers and on www.immobilienscout24.de, then sit back and wait for prospective buyers. Include as many pictures as you can and an accurate description of what you’re selling, otherwise you risk attracting people who will take one look and leave, wasting everyone’s time. There are no regulations on how much information you have to provide to prospective buyers, but hiding or lying about potential problems such as damp cellars or animals in the attic can expose you to future liabilities, including the nullification of any sales agreement – it pays to tell the truth.

It is best to look at the prices of comparable properties when determining how much you want to sell for or, if the property is maintained by a property management group, they should have a good idea of the going rates. Have a lawyer draw up a sales agreement and, when you’ve found a buyer, you get to sit through another boring notary appointment, but hopefully you’ve made some money on the investment.