ᐅ Cost of Expert Consultant

Hello

We are considering buying a house. After viewing several properties, we have now found one where we feel comfortable.

Since we have no technical knowledge about construction, we would like to go through it with an expert who can possibly identify defects and inform us about potential costs we might face.

Now my questions:

1. Is a "building surveyor" or "property inspector" the right professional for this task (including estimating costs)?
2. How can we find a reliable expert?
3. Are there specific services we should definitely look for?
4. What should this service cost or be allowed to cost?

Thank you in advance

Hello,

wadi1982 schrieb:

1. Is a "building expert" really the right person for this task (including cost estimation)?

Actually, yes, but be careful: Anyone can call themselves an expert. They should have comprehensive knowledge of building technology.

wadi1982 schrieb:

2. How do you find a good expert?

Google, Yellow Pages → building expert, architect, structural engineer

wadi1982 schrieb:

3. Are there services you should definitely pay attention to?

That depends on what you want the expert to do.
Assess the house and possibly identify defects, estimate the costs of any renovation, planning, tendering, construction supervision, etc.

wadi1982 schrieb:

4. What should/may this cost?

See above, it depends on the service provided

Regards

Hi.

Thanks for the information.

Regarding points 1 and 2: Okay, I thought there might be a chamber or association (similar to a trade chamber) where you could ask who has the appropriate qualifications.

Regarding point 3: Since we want to buy a house, our main concern is that the inspector might find defects or issues we don’t notice ourselves (for example, moisture/mold, work that the seller considers minor but needs to be assessed objectively, etc.) and can tell us whether the price is reasonable.

Regarding point 4: What would be the approximate cost for the services mentioned in point 3?

...will probably remain in the three-digit range. I would charge based on the hours worked.

It then depends on how detailed the cost estimate for defect remediation and the purchase price should be. A formal appraisal of value is, of course, significantly more complex than a rough estimate based on experience.

Hello,

wadi1982 schrieb:
OK, I thought there might be an organization (like a guild or chamber of crafts) where you could ask who has the relevant qualifications.

There is one—just try searching on Google using the term "Bund der Sachverständigen" and you will find what you’re looking for.

wadi1982 schrieb:
What would be the approximate cost for the services mentioned in point 3?

You will need a so-called "valuation report." The cost depends on the size of the house and the scope of the expert’s work. Find an expert you prefer and discuss the expected costs with them in advance; prices vary by region, but in my opinion, it is roughly in the range of €1,500.00 to €2,500.00.

However, ask the seller first if they might already have had one prepared.

Kind regards

OK. Thank you.

And when it comes to value / cost, is it more about making a statement like "Yes, the house is worth the price" or "No, the house is too expensive for its condition"?