Do I, as an heir, have to sell immediately?

No. You can keep the property, rent it out, or sell it. In the case of communities of heirs, the decision should be made jointly and well-documented.

Is speculation tax due when selling an inherited property?

Heirs take over the acquisition data of the deceased. If the ten-year period from their purchase has already expired, or if the property has been personally used accordingly, the sale usually remains tax-free.

Do I need a certificate of inheritance?

For the sale, the succession must be proven to the land registry office (Grundbuchamt) and the notary – by means of a certificate of inheritance or a notarised will with a probate record.

Property Valuation for Inheritance

Following an inheritance, the question of what the property is worth quickly arises – for inheritance tax, for division among heirs, or for a potential sale. These values can differ.

The Value for the Tax Office

The tax office calculates the property value (Grundbesitzwert) according to the Valuation Act (Bewertungsgesetz). If the acquisition exceeds the personal allowances, inheritance tax is incurred. The allowances are 500.000 Euro for spouses and registered civil partners, 400.000 Euro for children, and 200.000 Euro for grandchildren.

If the Tax Value is Too High

If the actual market value is below the value determined by the tax office, a lower value can be proven – for example, through a market value appraisal (Verkehrswertgutachten) or a prompt sale. Observe deadlines and seek tax advice.

Family Home and Special Rules

Under certain conditions, the self-occupied family home is tax-exempt if spouses or children continue to reside in it themselves. Conditions apply, such as self-occupancy for over ten years and, for children, a living space limit. If sold earlier, the exemption may be forfeited.

Value for Community of Heirs (Erbengemeinschaft) and Sale

For the division among heirs and for sale, the realistic market price is crucial. We value the property free of charge, coordinate with all heirs, and guide the sale – even if heirs do not live in Berlin.