Are you looking to buy an apartment? Then you want to be sure you're buying one that's in good condition. You can have a building inspection carried out for this. Homekeur checks the apartment for all critical points. We then provide you with a clear building report detailing everything we've found. However, the apartment's structural condition isn't the only thing you need to consider. What other factors should you consider when buying an apartment? We'd be happy to tell you more.
One of the main advantages of buying an apartment, according to apartment owners themselves, is the shared cost sharing. The complex often has public areas. These require maintenance, repairs, and perhaps even professional cleaning. These costs are usually shared among the complex's residents. This is beneficial for all buyers. However, it's important to understand beforehand which costs are shared and which aren't.
Building management includes renovations, repairs, and maintenance. In some cases, the building is managed by the residents themselves, while in other cases, a manager is appointed to oversee everything. As a future apartment owner, it's important to know who is responsible for building management, what agreements exist, and whether a clear multi-year maintenance plan (MJOP) is in place.
In most cases, communal costs are associated with co-ownership. If you buy an apartment, you will be faced with communal costs. It's important to be clear in advance about when and how these communal costs are to be paid. Ask about the amount of these costs and what the annual indexation is.
Occasionally, larger investments are required. This could include replacing the roof or an elevator. These are major expenses that are usually covered by a reserve fund. Often, a portion of the common expenses is allocated to the reserve fund, but this can be arranged differently. Determine if a reserve fund exists and how it is arranged.
In principle, general meetings are required, where all important matters are discussed by the apartment owners. Voting rights apply, which in most cases are proportional to their ownership percentage. General meetings are important, but they don't always take place annually. For example, they don't take place in the case of a dormant homeowners' association (VvE). Check this carefully. An active homeowners' association with annual meetings often indicates that matters are well-organized.
Are you buying an apartment? Then there might be things you'd like to change. Keep in mind that changes aren't always permitted. For example, if the exterior awnings need replacing, replacing red awnings with blue ones isn't always permitted. There may be regulations regarding this, and it's important to be aware of them. Make sure you understand what's allowed and what's not. It's also a good idea to check which replacement costs are your responsibility.
As a new resident of an apartment in a complex, you have the right to know what has been discussed and agreed upon recently during general meetings. Minutes of these meetings are available. Request these and read them carefully. This will give you a clear overview of, for example, planned investments.
When you're considering buying an apartment, you want to be sure you won't be faced with any unexpected costs. Therefore, it's a good idea to have a building inspection carried out by Homekeur. You'll receive a building inspection report , providing you with all the information you need about the apartment's condition. Schedule an appointment online now or contact us for more information and advice. We're happy to help.
The cost of a building inspection (up to 250 m²) is only €489 including VAT. We'll conduct a comprehensive building inspection and you'll receive a building report. Do you have any questions? We're happy to help and can schedule an appointment with an expert inspector right away if you wish!
