Inheritance: Important 2025 tips on inheritance and real estate – What you should consider

Receiving an inherited property is a great opportunity for many, but it can also present challenges. Whether the inherited house or apartment should be kept, sold or rented out – heirs are often faced with difficult decisions. In this article, you will find out which legal, financial and practical aspects you should consider when inheriting a property.

As an experienced real estate company, we are at your side every step of the way. We support you with specialist knowledge, a professional valuation and individual solutions for the optimal handling of your inherited property. Whether you need comprehensive advice or are planning specific steps to realize the property, we are your competent partner. You can find out more on our website: immobilien-stuttgart.com.

1. the acceptance or waiver of the inheritance

Before deciding to accept an inheritance, you should check whether the property is encumbered with debts. After all, you are not only taking on assets with the inheritance, but also liabilities. A look at the land register and a check of any loans are essential. If it turns out that the debts exceed the value of the property, it may make sense to waive the inheritance. The deadline for renouncing the inheritance is six weeks from the time you become aware of the inheritance. We support you in making the right decision and help you to complete the necessary formalities.

2. inheritance tax and tax aspects

In Germany, inheritance is subject to inheritance tax. The tax rate depends on the degree of kinship and the value of the property. Spouses and children benefit from high tax-free allowances (spouse: 500,000 euros, children: 400,000 euros). If the property is used by the owner within ten years of the inheritance, tax exemption may be possible under certain conditions. We will advise you comprehensively on the tax situation and show you ways to minimize tax burdens.

3. land register change and certificate of inheritance

In order to be entered in the land register as the legal owner, heirs require a certificate of inheritance or a notarized will with an opening protocol. The certificate of inheritance is applied for at the probate court and can take several weeks, depending on the size of the community of heirs. We can help you compile the necessary documents and speed up the application process.

4. community of heirs: what to do?

If there are several heirs, a community of heirs is automatically created. This community must decide jointly on the future of the property. Possible solutions are

• Dissolution of the community of heirs through sale of the property and division of the proceeds
• Takeover by an heir with payment of the co-heirs
• Joint letting or use of the property

If no agreement is reached, a judicial partition auction may be necessary, which is often associated with financial disadvantages. Our real estate company can help you find the best way forward for your individual situation. We can advise you on fair solutions and support you in the sale or management of the property.

5. sale or rental?

If owner-occupation is not an option, heirs are faced with the question of whether they want to sell or rent out the property. A sale can make sense if quick liquidity is needed or renovations are pending. Letting offers long-term income, but also involves administrative work. We offer you professional sales and letting services to maximize the value of your property. Our experts will be happy to advise you on the options and help you make the best decision for your financial future.

6. maintenance and renovation costs

Many inherited properties are in need of renovation. Before heirs decide whether to sell or let, they should check the condition of the building. Energy efficiency, modernization requirements and running costs play a decisive role. Our experts will support you with a well-founded assessment and recommendations for economically sensible measures. On request, we can put you in touch with tradesmen and service providers to efficiently implement any necessary renovations.

7. make the right decision

A real estate inheritance is not only a financial matter, but also an emotional one. Many heirs associate personal memories with the house or apartment they inherit. It is therefore important to take enough time to make the best possible decision. We are at your side with advice and assistance and help you to make the best use of your property or to sell it in the best possible way.

An inherited property can be a valuable asset, but it also comes with obligations. A thorough examination of the financial and legal framework will help you make the best decision. Our real estate company is at your side with comprehensive advice and professional support. We accompany you from the initial analysis through the tax and legal aspects to the successful marketing or management of the property. Contact us for a non-binding initial consultation and let our experts advise you individually! You can find more information on our website: immobilien-stuttgart.com.