What is Aparthotel?
Aparthotel is a combination of a hotel and a complex with apartments. It provides reception, restaurant and wellness services.
What does "Zweitwohnsitz / Freizeitwohnsitz" mean?
Zweitwohnsitz / Freizeitwohnsitz means holiday home. The definition of a holiday home in Austria is:
"Holiday residences are buildings, apartments or other parts of buildings which do not serve the satisfaction of year-round residence, but are used for holidays, weekends or otherwise only for temporary recreational purposes."
The number of properties with this status is strictly regulated by the Land Use Planning Act (ÖROG), which is specifit to each federal state. The use of properties according to their status is controlled by the competent authority and, in the event of improper use, severely penalised.
Do I need to book a property before viewing?
Most sellers do not offer this option. Reservation of the property is possible after the inspecion of the property, in case of interest in buying. reservations are granted for a maximum of one week to 14 day after viewing the property.
What are the costs associated with buying a property in Austria?
Who pays the cots of buying the property?
In Austria, the buyer always pays the costs associated with the purchase of a property.
How high is the broker commission?
The amount of broker commission is regulated by the Real Estate Agents Ordinance and is also subjet to he Brokers Act. Before purchasing a property, each client must receive a "Kaufnebenkosten" (incidental costs) document issued by the Chamber of Commerce which contains all information about the costs associated with the purchase of real estate in Austria, including the broker's commission.
How long does it take to buy a property in Austria?
buying property in general is very individal. Form the actual property viewing to the handing over the keys, ideally three monsts is expected.
What are the risks of buying a property in Austria?
The risks of buying a property in Austria are minimal. The develper is controlled through the Developers Act, the real estate agent is subject to the Brokers ACt, the notary/lawyer is controlled by the Chamber of Lawyers.
The buyer is always registered in the land register.
Can I apply for a VAT refund after buying a property?
Yes, a VAT refund is possible. But only for tourist rental properties and under certain conditions. For detailed information on VAT refunds in Austria, please contact our tax advisor.
What language are the sales contracts and other documents in?
The contract of sale and the other documents are drawn up in German language.
Where can I sign the purchase contract?
The signature of the purchase contract must be notarized. Therefore, the purchase contract must be signet either at a notary in Austria or at the Austrian cosulate in the coutry where you are located.
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