Where the commercial premises for sale come from
The commercial premises on offer come from private real estate auction houses, the Grundstücksauktionen, which organise public sales in auction rooms in several major German cities. Bidding takes place in person, by phone, in writing or online. Other sales take place entirely online over several weeks, then end with a live phase led by an auctioneer. Each property has a starting price, called Auktionslimit or Mindestgebot. The award, the Zuschlag, is recorded by a notary present at the sale and constitutes the purchase contract. Bidorado does not sell anything: you bid on the seller's official platform.
Points to check before bidding
Read the Exposé published for each property and request the available documents: extract from the land register (Grundbuchauszug), energy certificate (Energieausweis), occupancy status (vermietet or leerstehend) and encumbrances (Baulasten). Check whether the premises are rented or vacant, as this changes the management and expected yield. A financial guarantee (Bietungssicherheit) or proof of solvency may be required to bid. Budget for the full costs: buyer's premium that decreases with the price, including VAT, then property transfer tax (Grunderwerbsteuer) of 3.5 to 6.5% depending on the federal state, notary fees and land registry fees. There is no VAT on the property price.
Viewings, adjudication and post-purchase steps
Viewings are often possible before the sale, by appointment. Take this time to check the condition of the premises, its access, its utilities and its permitted use. A foreign buyer, whether an individual or a company, can buy a property in Germany without special authorisation. After the adjudication, the notary records the sale and you sign the deed. Purchase costs are added to the price: transfer tax depending on the Land, notary fees and entry in the Grundbuch. Have a notary or local adviser assist you with reading the documents and calculating the total cost before you commit.