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Real estate commission – Everything you need to know about brokerage fees 2026

The real estate commission—also known as the brokerage fee or agent’s fee—is the compensation for the intermediary or proof-of-opportunity services provided by a real estate agent. Anyone looking to buy or sell property will quickly face these core questions: Who pays the agent when selling a house? How high are the fees when buying? And when is the payment due—after the notary appointment or earlier?

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Zurich real estate prices: Stable market, high demand

Zurich real estate prices continued to show a stable upward trend in 2024. As an economically important metropolis, Switzerland's largest city experiences enormous popularity, even beyond national borders. From urban flair with diverse cultural offerings and entertainment options to magnificent landscapes for recreation, the city and its surrounding canton offer something for every taste. Where does Zurich show its most beautiful side, and how are real estate prices developing? Our Market Insights Zurich provide you with insights into developments and trends!

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Creative financing real estate: the new norm?

The financial crisis of 2008 was a game-changer. Many countries had to reassess their mortgage approval processes. With these changes came a new attitude to property investments and, in particular, how they’re financed. This has led to a resurgence of alternative financing options as people increasingly seek out creative financing ideas. As a result, creative financing real estate is no longer a synonym for creative accounting; it’s a smart way to access the best property deals.

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Investing in real estate at a young age – should you make the leap?

For many young people, owning a home continues to be a major life goal. While buying a home is of course a big emotional decision, it is also a serious financial choice and can seem like a maze of pros and cons. Will it be worth it in the long run? Should you buy now or wait? What are your options to make it a sound financial decision?

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Calculating living space - the right way!

If you are looking for a new property or even want to sell your property yourself, you will often come across terms such as living space or floor area. But what exactly do these terms mean and what is the difference? In this article we would like to clarify the topic of living space and show you how it is calculated.

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Retrofitting solar thermal energy in existing buildings

Retrofitting a solar thermal system can be environmentally friendly and also attractive from an economic point of view for property owners. Depending on the existing heating system and taking into account the local conditions, a solar thermal system actively supplements the heating or hot water supply. Due to rising energy costs, what has long been standard in new buildings also pays off when it comes to renovating old buildings. The state subsidises property owners with up to 35 per cent of the purchase price. Find out in our guide when it is feasible to retrofit a solar thermal system and what you need to consider before making the purchase.

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A dream come true - your penthouse in Constance

Live in the centre of it all and yet in complete privacy in a chic Penthouse in Constance. In exposed locations on the roofs of attractive apartment blocks, you will find high-quality to luxurious condominiums in various locations various locations of Constance. A penthouse flat is always located on the top floor of the residential building and promises a unique panoramic view for this reason alone unique panoramic view. Floor-to-ceiling window fronts usually merge into spacious roof terraces. So you can enjoy the picturesque view in summer and winter alike. Constance on Lake Constance is predestined for enjoying life to the full in a dreamlike penthouse. You live in one of the most beautiful regions in Germany with an excellent infrastructure and unique Recreational value. Some of the sights in Constance are

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What is the local comparable rent based on?

The local comparative rent is formed from the usual rents of the municipality (or a comparable municipality). The living space must be comparable in terms of type, size, equipment, quality and location. The period under consideration for the local comparable rent is four years. Increases due to increases in operating costs are not taken into account.

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Engel & Völkers Germany

Vancouverstraße 2a

20457 Hamburg, Germany

Tel: +49 40 361310