In Germany, there are no restrictions on the acquisition of real estate by foreign citizens.

The costs of a real estate transaction are:

• Real Estate Transfer Tax 3.50% - 6.50% - paid by the buyer,
• notary fees 1.20% - 1.50% - paid by the buyer,
• Registration fee 0.80% - 1.20% - paid by the buyer,
• Broker's commission 1.5% - 3% (+ 19% VAT) - paid by the buyer,
• and accordingly 1.5% - 3% (+ 19% VAT) are paid by the seller.

The total expenses of the buyer amount to 7.23% - 12.77%. The cost of the seller - 1.79% - 3.57%.

The main thing that I would like to draw attention to is that prices in the German housing market are constantly growing. The reasons? Economic growth, influx of refugees, immigration of skilled workers, record low unemployment, poor construction supply, low interest rates ...

For example, during 2018 (up to 3 quarters):

• apartment prices rose by 7.55% (5.15% adjusted for inflation);
• for new homes - by 5.9% (adjusted for inflation of 3.53%).

Acquisition of business. Foreign investors have two opportunities to organize a company in Germany: by creating a new business structure or by buying a ready-made company. The company law does not discriminate against foreign investors when registering companies, and the government encourages foreign businessmen by providing them with various business opportunities.

It remains only to answer the question: why do you need to buy a ready-made company?

One of the main advantages of ready-made companies is that the investor does not have to spend time on the registration procedure. Buying a ready-made company in Germany is quite simple. The only requirement is to organize the transfer of shares of the company to the new owner. This requires the participation of a notary.

After the transfer, the new owner may make the following changes to the company:

• in the company name,
• in activities
• change registered address
• appoint a new board of directors & management.

As soon as all changes comply with the requirements of the new owner, it is necessary to notify the Trade Register of Germany.