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Retrofitting fireplace systems: What you need to look out for in your property

They are the epitome of a cosy living atmosphere and set individual design accents in their various forms, from modern to classic: wood-burning stoves have a long tradition worldwide and are very popular with property owners. What's more, the combination of energy efficiency and design can make a fireplace a real heating alternative, which also makes retrofitting worthwhile. In this article by your real estate agent Engel & Völkers Hamburg Elbe, you can find out why it may be worth installing a fireplace in your house or flat in Hamburg and what requirements your property must fulfil.

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When do you need the consent of the community of owners for a change of use?

If a property is divided into condominiums according to the provisions of the Condominium Act (Wohnungseigentumsgesetz, WEG), the following applies: In most cases, the consent of the community of owners must be obtained for the change of use. When this is the case, i.e. whether the change of use requires (internal) consent, can be assessed on the basis of the so-called declaration of division.

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How to add value to your home with outdoor landscaping

When examining adding value to property, typical advice often focuses on kitchen renovations and loft conversions. While these interior-led techniques can certainly be effective, don’t neglect the importance of a home’s outdoor spaces. In sunny regions, a spacious terrace is an essential selling point. Here’s a closer look at how to add value to your home with outdoor spaces.

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Mandatory refurbishment: What measures does the GEG provide for?

The German government and the EU want to contribute to climate protection by improving the energy efficiency of properties. According to the provisions of the Building Energy Act (GEG), owners of houses and apartments are obliged to carry out certain refurbishment measures in their property, such as replacing heating systems that are too old or insulating the roof. Real estate agent Engel & Völkers Cuxhaven will be happy to advise you on all issues relating to your property. In this article, you can find out everything you need to know about the upcoming renovation obligation and our exclusive services that could be helpful in this context. Find out more!

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Guide for owners: Redevelopment and preservation areas

If you want to buy or sell a multi-family house, you have to comply with some building laws which are particularly relevant for investors. In addition to the current legal situation, the possible development of municipal regulations should also be taken into account when making an investment decision.

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Dingelsdorf property: Fantastic houses and flats on Lake Constance

To the north of Constance, the district of Dingelsdorf is picturesquely situated on a slight hillside and meanders along the shores of Lake Überlingen. Here you will find marvellous Constance condominiums with lake views. Or would you like to buy a house in Constance for the whole family at attractive prices? In the quiet residential area of the town with its approx. 2200 inhabitants, you can enjoy the relaxed atmosphere of the green region on Lake Constance between Dettlingen and Litzelstetten. Relax in your leisure time at the lidos or in the Dingelsdorfer Ried nature reserve. The ferry takes you to Überlingen on the other side of the lake in ten minutes. You can reach Allensbach and the B 33, on which you can cross the whole of Baden-Württemberg, just as quickly by car. Even Constance's old town is only around a quarter of an hour away. By the way, with Engel & Völkers you will also find Properties in the district of Constance as well as in other districts and towns.

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What are the heating systems of the future?

Whether it's a new building or the modernisation of an old building: Anyone planning an upgrade of their heating system should take a closer look at the heating systems of the future. Because while fossil fuel heating systems are usually cheap to buy, they will cost a lot of money to operate over the next few years. Natural gas and heating oil are dependent on the world market and at the same time are only available in limited quantities. This is why heating systems based on heating oil or natural gas are not future-proof. Fossil fuels are also subject to carbon tax, which makes them even more expensive. Modern heating systems using renewable energy sources such as solar or heat pumps protect the environment. Energy from the sun, the air, the earth or the water is available for free. This greatly reduces energy costs in the future. Energy-efficient heating systems make property owners more independent of energy suppliers and politics. Heating systems such as heat pumps, solar thermal energy or heating with biomass contribute to the transition of the heating sector as a significant part of the energy transition. But which heating system of the future is the right one for old or new buildings?

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Residential to commercial and vice versa: What do you have to consider when changing the use of a property?

A change of use from commercial to residential or vice versa can make sense in many cases. After all, the real estate market is in a constant state of flux. Demand and usage patterns change, especially in economically turbulent times. This demands flexibility from the owners of a property. In this way, it is possible to react to the current trends in real estate use and to increase the Value creation potential of the property can be fully exploited.

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Engel & Völkers Germany

Vancouverstraße 2a

20457 Hamburg, Germany

Tel: +49 40 361310