How to Sell a House with Complete Safety? Tips on How to Avoid Risks

Selling real estate is a complex process that requires attention to detail and professional knowledge. In addition to the technical and legal aspects of the transaction, the seller faces a number of potential risks that, if not properly managed, can lead to financial losses or legal consequences.

Let's look at the main risks when selling real estate and how to minimize them for a safe transaction.

Documents and Mistakes to Avoid

One of the common mistakes is the belief that the risk in the transaction lies only with the buyer, since he invests a significant amount of money. However, the seller also bears legal responsibility. Failure to comply with the rules can lead to the cancellation of the transaction, the return of the advance payment and even compensation.

Key points that require special attention:

1. Compliance with cadastral data
   Any changes to the layout must be officially registered. The property being sold must comply with the cadastral data, otherwise the transaction will be considered invalid. Before selling, it is necessary to check the relevance of the plan and the presence of a declaration of conformity with the actual state of the property.

2. Certificate of habitability
   The property must be fit for habitation, which is confirmed by a special certificate. This document guarantees safety, compliance with sanitary standards and serviceability of communications. In the absence of such a certificate, the transaction may be terminated with possible compensation to the buyer.

3. Energy Performance Certificate (APE)
   New European requirements for the energy performance of buildings will come into force on 1 January 2025. The energy performance certificate (APE) will become a mandatory document when selling, showing the energy class of the property. Non-compliance with the standards can reduce the value of the property or scare off potential buyers.

4. Hidden defects
   If the seller deliberately hides defects (such as cracks, mold, or utility problems), the buyer has the right to demand the termination of the transaction, a reduction in price, or compensation. It is important to eliminate such defects before listing the property for sale.

5. Object restrictions
   If the property is subject to liens or debts, this could jeopardize the sale. Even if the sale goes through, the buyer could face a court order within five years, which could lead to significant financial and legal problems.

3 Tips for Safely Selling Your Property

1. Professional property valuation
   Determining the real market value of an object is an important step. An overpriced or underpriced price can scare off buyers or lead to financial losses. It is better to entrust the assessment to professionals.

2. Checking and preparing documents
   Update and check all documentation: cadastral plans, building permits, certificates of suitability and energy passport. This will prevent disputes with the buyer and speed up the sales process.

3. Choosing a reliable buyer
   Check the buyer's financial solvency. Ask for pre-approval of a mortgage or a deposit as security. This will reduce the risk of the deal falling through.

How to protect yourself when making a deal?

Pay special attention to the preliminary purchase and sale agreement. This is a legal document that defines all the terms of the future transaction. It should be drawn up with the help of a lawyer or notary.

In addition, engaging a qualified realtor will help you avoid mistakes. The specialist will provide support at all stages: from cost assessment to signing the main contract with a notary.

What should you pay attention to when signing a notarial deed?

1. Documents
   Make sure that the notary has all the necessary documents: title deeds, current cadastral extracts, certificates and other supporting documents.

2. Payments
   Make sure the contract clearly states the terms and methods of payment, and that payments are transparent and secure.

3. Object Matching
   Make sure that the actual condition of the property complies with all the terms of the preliminary agreement.

4. Contract clauses
   Carefully read all the points of the contract. If you have any questions, contact a notary or lawyer.

Selling real estate is a process that requires attention to detail and a professional approach. By contacting our company, you will receive a guarantee of your transaction!