When do I have to move out of the sold flat?

On the handover date agreed upon in the purchase contract. This is usually linked to the purchase price payment.

How quickly do I need to re-register?

Within two weeks of moving into the new flat.

What happens to furniture I don't take with me?

Fitted kitchens or furniture can be sold along with the property. This will be explicitly listed in the purchase agreement.

Moving after a Property Sale – the Checklist

After the notary appointment, the next task begins for many sellers: moving. With good planning, handover and a new start can be achieved without stress.

Properly plan the handover date

You set the handover date in the purchase contract – ideally with some buffer after the expected purchase price payment. This way, you don't have to move out before the money is in your account, and you have enough time for the move.

Property Handover

Create a handover protocol with meter readings for electricity, gas, water, and heating, hand over all keys and relevant documents such as operating instructions. Deregister with utility providers, insurance companies, and, for flats, the property management (Hausverwaltung).

Re-register and Change Address

After moving in, you must re-register at the residents' registration office (Bürgeramt) within two weeks. For this, you will need your ID and a landlord's confirmation (Wohnungsgeberbestätigung). Also inform your bank, employer, health insurance fund, tax office, insurance companies, and vehicle registration office. A mail redirection service from the post office will cover the first few months.

Plan Moving Costs

The costs for a moving company depend on volume, distance, floor, and additional services. Obtain several quotes, ideally after a viewing. In the case of professionally motivated moves, costs may under certain circumstances be tax-deductible.