ᐅ What is the recommended approach when buying a house?

Hello,

now that we are having our second child, our 60 m² (650 sq ft) apartment is getting a bit cramped, and I want to move into a house. Since I have no experience at all, I am simply asking a general question here about the best way to proceed. What are the first steps? Should I just check websites like immobilienscout24, or will I get better offers if I hire a real estate agent or inquire with other organizations?

Good luck, Kilian

The mentioned website is definitely the best place to get a good general overview.
In addition, you can check websites of local real estate agents, local banks like Sparkasse and Volksbank, and the classifieds in local weekly newspapers.
Do not hire a real estate agent. They will only take your money.

I usually start by checking real estate platforms like Immoscout, as well as local free newspapers, official gazettes, or similar sources. Websites like Ebay Classifieds also offer some options. I have also tried placing a newspaper ad myself.

Additionally, new construction projects often have signs with information on where to purchase the new homes.

Yes, carefully review everything and ask within your circle of friends and acquaintances. Do you already have a budget? How do your finances look?

And drive around with your eyes open. You will usually find signs with a phone number attached to garden fences or similar if a house is for sale.

It is also a good idea to get in touch with the local real estate departments of banks. For example, at S-Immo, new listings are initially sent only to their "clients" whose search profiles match the property. Only afterwards are the listings marketed more widely through branches or online.