What Berlin property owners think about real estate succession—and what often happens too late

Succession: A Topic Often Put Off

Only 23% of the property owners surveyed have already fully settled the succession of their property. The vast majority, however—around 77%—are still in the early stages of discussion or have not yet addressed the issue in concrete terms.

At the same time, many owners are aware of the importance of this: 80% believe that discussions about the transfer should begin early, ideally before the next generation turns 40. Reality shows, however, that in many families, the issue only becomes concrete when decisions must be made under time pressure.

Transparency: Often Perceived as Greater Than It Is

A key finding concerns transparency within the family. While 89% of owners state that information regarding the property (e.g., rental income, financing, structure) is transparent or somewhat transparent, a different picture emerges among heirs: Here, only 80% perceive the situation as transparent, and one in five sees significant gaps in information. This gap in perception can lead to uncertainty and conflict in a crisis, especially when quick decisions are required.

Taxes dominate—but they aren’t the only issue

Both owners and heirs cite tax issues as the biggest challenge surrounding real estate succession:

• 73% of owners view taxes as a key issue

• 75% of heirs cite tax burdens as their biggest concern

This makes it clear: The topic of taxes is the central driver of the need for information and the pressure to make decisions. At the same time, the results show that other topics are often underestimated, particularly coordination within the family and responsibility for administration.

The next generation: interested, but often unprepared

A particularly revealing finding concerns the perspective of heirs. Here, 50% of respondents feel insufficiently prepared for a real estate inheritance. In addition, more than a third of potential heirs are rarely or never involved in decisions.

At the same time, overall interest is high. The greatest demand is for tax classification (45%), legal foundations (20%), and a better overview of figures and structures. This shows that what is lacking is not so much interest as involvement and guidance.

Real Estate: An Asset Rather Than Merely a Family Inheritance

Attitudes toward real estate itself are also changing. Only 30% of owners are determined to keep the property within the family; the majority (48%) say: yes, but only if it makes economic sense. A similar picture emerges among heirs. Of them, 55% would generally want to keep the property, while 45% would decide based on the economic situation.

These figures make it clear: Real estate is increasingly viewed as an economic asset and not exclusively as an emotional family possession.

Conclusion: Good succession planning starts with a conversation

The results of our survey make it clear: The biggest challenge lies not in individual details, but in the interplay of timing, transparency, and involvement.

• Only one in four owners has fully settled succession

• One in two heirs feels insufficiently prepared

• One-third of heirs is barely involved

Those who start early, communicate openly, and actively involve the next generation lay the foundation for a successful and conflict-free handover. Especially in a dynamic market like Berlin, this is crucial for securing the long-term value of residential and commercial properties.

Would you like to address this issue early on?

We would be happy to assist you in planning the succession of your property in a structured and forward-looking manner—and in involving the next generation step by step.

Please contact us.