Sell the property or… rent it out?! Do what?!

Selling before, during or after the divorce is finalized.

Divorce Procedure

Divorce Process – Petition, Pension Equalization & Appointment – The process of a divorce depends significantly on whether it is contested or amicable. Consensual divorces can be final within minutes at the family court, while contested divorces often drag on for months.

• Divorce Procedure

Divorce: What happens to my property

Those who decide to get married and marry, in most cases, intend to spend life with their spouse forever and share everything that belongs to them. When getting married, no one thinks about the fact that there will eventually be a divorce and possibly even a dispute over belongings. But in 2017, the divorce rate in Germany was over 36 percent, which shows that unfortunately not all marriages last forever. Often cheating, daily life including routine or even financial problems are the reasons for divorce.

Questions, answers, tips and procedure for separation

When a divorce leads to a home sale, you should be well informed. Are you in the process of a divorce or would you like to file for one? Ideally, you have the opportunity to talk reasonably and objectively about the separation with the partner to be divorced? Then the question now becomes: who owns what? If you own a joint property such as a house, you should now ask yourself: who owns the house and how can this be divided after the divorce?

• Divorce: Sell property

Sell house fast

Selling a house quickly – Selling a house is a complex matter and involves many different steps. From the creation of an appealing advertisement to the valuation of the property and the subsequent legal steps, such as the purchase contract and the appointments with the notary. During all these steps, various points must be taken into account in order to complete the property sale as profitably and quickly as possible.

• Sell house fast

Renting and managing

Letting and managing in divorce.

Manage real estate despite separation

Separation pain – time for great happiness: marriage, children and a joint property. These are the dreams of many couples. But unfortunately, everything rarely works out the way you dreamed it would. It is not all too rare for life to throw a spanner in the works. Many people are devastated after a breakup and do not have the strength to even care about the division of the joint property. In such cases, it often makes sense to put the management of the joint property in the hands of an experienced real estate agent.

• Manage real estate despite separation

Rent out real estate

Important facts when renting out a house or apartment – Renting out a property can be a great side income, but it can also become your main job. Landlords have many responsibilities to the tenant and must take care of the property. However, if this is successful, a lot of profit can come from it.

How do I set the rental price correctly? How does my advertisement appear appealing? And how do I draw up a suitable and fair rental contract? All these questions are asked by a future landlord, because in order to successfuly rent out a property, a lot of expertise and experience is required. However, if you follow a few simple steps, you will make the leap to becoming a successful landlord and profit from the earnings.

• Rent out real estate

There is a lot to learn when it comes to renting. Take your time.

Law: Legal

Divorce legalities.

Divorce Law

Divorce law comes into play in the event of a divorce between spouses. This is regulated in §§ 1564 ff BGB (German Civil Code) and in § 111 FamFG (Law on Proceedings in Family Matters). Which regulations there are and how a divorce proceeds, you can find out now with us!

• Divorce Law

Divorce settlement

Divorce settlement agreement – If a divorce can no longer be avoided, it should at least be settled amicably between the two spouses. An amicable divorce is the easiest and most cost-effective for all parties involved. A divorce settlement agreement helps to make divorce by mutual consent as uncomplicated as possible and settles all the important issues relating to a divorce in advance. These usually include maintenance claims, the division of assets and custody of the joint children.

• Divorce settlement

Alimony, tax bracket, children

Divorce is no longer an exceptional situation these days. In 2017, around 38 percent of closed marriages divorced. In addition to the emotional roller coaster ride experienced by those affected, legal questions also tend to rob people of their sleep. What happens to the jointly acquired household goods? What about maintenance claims? What is to become of the joint house in which the couple lived together and wanted to grow old together?

• Alimony, tax bracket, children

Separation maintenance

It happens more often than you might think. After a few years of marriage, couples find that things are no longer working as they should and thoughts of separation come up. However, marriage is a big responsibility and separation can also have big legal and financial implications. So such a step should be well thought out and carefully planned. Good communication between the spouses is essential. The experts at Lukinski explain what you can expect when it comes to separation maintenance and how you can best deal with such a situation.

• Separation maintenance

Hardship divorce

A hardship divorce is a last resort. If there is such a valid reason for an immediate divorce without observing a separation year, it is possible to apply for a hardship divorce at a family court. However, these divorces are only the very last resort and are therefore the absolute exception.

• Hardship divorce

Name change

Change of name after divorce – Often, after a divorce, spouses wish to change their surname to bring closure to the divorce, or simply to resume their birth name. However, there are a few things to keep in mind when doing so, which are outlined in the Civil Code. To give you an overview of the most important facts, the experts at Lukinski explain the topic of name change after divorce in detail.

• Name change

Pension rights adjustment: pension after marriage

In most divorces, the equalisation of pensions must be carried out by the family courts. This regulates the entitlements and prospects of a pension due to old age or reduced earning capacity that the spouses have acquired during the marriage. Marriages of up to three years must apply for pension equalisation, all others can exclude it before the notary or structure it more closely.

• Pension rights adjustment

Pension entitlement

Pension entitlement after divorce – Those who want a divorce face many unanswered questions. One of them is the pension and how this is treated in the divorce. In this context, couples are confronted with the word pension equalization, which means nothing other than that the pension rights acquired during the marriage are divided between the spouses.

• Pension entitlement

Emotional

Emotional aspects of a breakup:

Separation with children

A separation involving joint children is a challenge for all concerned. Legal and organisational changes occur mainly for the parents, but the most important thing is probably the emotional burden and how the parents deal with these changes. Children should always be taken into account when separating and therefore certain behaviours must be observed.

• Separation with children

Grounds for Divorce

Life goals, infidelity, disputes – in every relationship there are different problems and thus also different reasons that speak for a separation or divorce. But often there are similar reasons, such as infidelity, violence, but also jealousy or drug abuse.

• Grounds for Divorce

Excerpt

A breakup is painful and requires patience and stamina from those involved. While emotions are running high, it is difficult to think clearly and to talk about the separate ways in the future. The question of the joint house and the spatial separation soon arises. At the latest after the divorce papers have been filed, the spatial separation is legally required for the separation year in order to carry out a legal divorce.

• Move out of the shared house

Separation year

Separation year – in every marriage there are crises. However, if these are insurmountable, it often comes to separation and the desire for divorce. However, before this can be made legally binding, the couple must go through a separation year. But why is this separation year needed at all and how does the divorce proceed after the year?

• Separation year

Additionally, in the following there may be slight grammatical errors, as this article was written by a German tax expert. This does not detract from the quality of information.

Sanierung, Modernisierung or Renovierung? Why?

Further down we explain all the details about things you have to know about renovating or refurbsihing your house or property in Germany. But first, we look at what the terms which you will often hear in the German real estate market even mean. So, what does Sanierung mean?

What is a “Sanierung”?

A Sanierung is an improvement on fundamental issues or problems which make living in a building difficult or very uncomfortable.

In German, there are multiple words for what in other countries may all fall under the term renovation. There are three types of these. First, a Sanierung, which is a very fundamental improvement and update to all things in the house, this means e.g. old sinks may be replaced. The translation of Sanierung is refurbishment. In general this is more effort than just a renovation, as a real issue is fixed. A renovierung is the second type. Here, more aesthetic things like the colour of the walls will be redone. Lastly, a “Modernisierung”. This is, as the word implies, when current state of utilities, walls, etc. are made more modern.

Sanierung is a renovation which fundamentally removes problems in your apartment, house, etc.

This article is part of our guide on German real estate and tax optimization. Learn more here:

• Save Money – Tax Optimization with Property Investments

Sanierung as Effective Increase in Value of your Property

The renovation not only provides a modern look, it also saves energy and thus increases the value of the house. For economic reasons, renovation often makes sense. This is also true if you do not want to sell the house and hope to get a higher sales price by the renovation. Because by the so-called energy renovation you can reduce your additional costs significantly, so that the investment pays off in the long run.

Risk of Damage Decreases: Selling Price Increases

In addition, the premiums for residential building insurance for refurbished houses are significantly lower than for properties without core refurbishment. This is due to the fact that the risk of damage is significantly reduced, so that in many cases more than half of the insurance costs can be saved. If you would like to sell your house and are not sure whether renovation is appropriate, you are welcome to contact us.

Holistic Refurbishment: One-time Expense

When renovating a house, it should always be considered as a whole. Because only extensive renovation leads to better living quality and lower energy costs. For buildings in desolate condition, a core renovation is necessary. In addition, under certain circumstances a roof renovation can become due. This is the only way to create the optimal basis for a renovation. Afterwards, a tight building envelope is produced, which, due to good insulation, ensures that the heating remains in the house.

This also includes the installation of a new heating system, which at least partially uses renewable energies. Multiple glazed windows with good insulation also contribute to a better energy balance.

Modernization and value enhancement at a glance:

• Increase in value through modern appearance
• Energy efficiency and economy
• Higher living quality
• Reduction of additional costs
• Higher selling price

Core Renovation & Roof Renovation

Before you start with the renovation, you should have an expert determine which measures are necessary for your house. Once you have identified the weak points, you can start planning.

Core and roof renovation is by no means necessary for all buildings. However, if you buy a old building, it can happen that you are suddenly faced with this task.

All electrical and water pipes are replaced as part of the core renovation. In many cases, this also includes the complete roof covering. The condition of walls, ceilings, floors, windows and doors is checked extensively. If necessary, these are also renovated. Existing rooms are not destroyed, however. No walls are torn down.

The core of the building remains intact. If inner walls are torn down so that only the outer walls are preserved, this is called gutting.

Property Under Monument Protection

Germany is known for its strict laws protecting monument and historic status of buildings. Special caution is required for buildings that are under monumental protection. In this case, you must contact the responsible office for monument protection and ask for the conditions for core renovation.

Various funding options are available for core renovations, so you can save a lot of money. For example, you can deduct the costs for the craftsmen from your tax return and recoup up to 20 percent of the expenses.

20% craftsmen costs are reimbursed in your tax return

However, the maximum amount for a refund is 1,200 euros. In addition, there is the possibility to take advantage of one of the many support programs for the renovation of old buildings. However, you will usually only be able to benefit from these programs if you decide to carry out an energy-efficient renovation.

The subsidy programs differ from region to region and therefore vary greatly. A certified energy consultant can advise you in this regard and help you find the right program for you.

Maintenance Reserve According to Calculation Regulation

Reading Tip! In our formula collection you will find many more important formulas for the calculation of reserves, yield & Co. calculations and examples for buying, selling and renting. Rent or purchase price multiplier, gross yield, return on equity, property yield, reserves for repairs and much more.

There are too many small hidden costs when buying real estate in Germany to remember. Our guide:

• Hidden Costs when Investing in German Real Estate

Peter’s formula

The Peter’s formula assumes a useful life of 80 years.

The formula means that in a certain time 150% of the pure production costs (building costs without costs of paying for property, development, architect, etc.) for maintenance and reorganization will come up again.

For a House
80 years useful life
150% of production costs for renovation, maintenance

For condominiums in multi-family houses, the assumption is 100%. Distributed to 65% for work on common property and another 35% for work on special property.

For a Condominium
80 years useful life
100% of the manufacturing costs

Reserves Formation

If you calculate further exemplary with an object, whose production costs are 4,500 Euro per square meter, then this results in a monthly reserve of 7.05 Euro per square meter.

Reserve: house
Production costs: 4.500 € / m²
Monthly reserve: 7,05 € / m²

For condominiums, this results in a somewhat lower reserve of 4.50 euros per square meter for the owners’ association.

Reserve: condominium
Production costs: 4.500 € / m²
Monthly reserve: 7,05 € / m²

Tip! These are divided into the aforementioned 65% for work on common property and another 35% for work on special property.

• Reserve for owners’ association: 4.65 / m²
• Reserve apartment owner: 2,40 € / m²

These costs cannot be passed on to the tenant.

Annual reserve according to § 28, paragraph 2

Also the second calculation regulation supplies in § 28, paragraph 2 reference points over the appropriate height of an appropriate maintenance reserve. These cost estimates are significantly lower than those according to the Peter’s formula, but are graduated according to the age of the building (based on production costs of 4,500 euros per square meter):

• Residential buildings which are up to 22 years old = 21,30 € / m² living space
• Residential buildings which are up to 32 years old = 27,00 € / m² living space
• Residential building over 32 years = 34,50 € / m² living space
• Building with elevator + 3,00 € / m²

Energy Renovation: Low Energy Consumption

Energy-efficient refurbishment is the repair of a building with the aim of ensuring the lowest possible energy consumption. If you do an energy update, you save heating costs, contribute to climate protection and can look forward to more living comfort.

This makes sense not only if you want to live in the house yourself, but also if you plan to sell your house.

More and more people are looking for sustainable and energy-saving houses. So you increase your chances on the housing market with an energy-efficient renovation. An important component of energy-efficient renovation is the effective and complete insulation of the building envelope. A continuous airtightness is the top priority here.

Outer Building: Outer Walls, Roof, Front Door, Windows & Co.

The building envelope includes not only the exterior walls, but also the roof, front door, windows and basement ceiling. All these parts shield the living space from the cold outside air. Poor thermal insulation of the building envelope has a catastrophic effect on the energy consumption of the house.

Up to – 50% reduction in energy demand = running costs

In many cases, the need can be reduced by more than 50% by means of an appropriate renovation.

Insulation: Mineral Fibers, Natural Insulating Materials & Co.

Various materials are used for insulation, such as mineral fibers or natural insulating materials, for example cellulose, hemp or cork. The higher the insulation thickness, the more energy can be saved. Leaks and thermal bridges must be avoided at all costs.

An airtight building envelope provides the best savings. With a modern heating system, which is largely powered by renewable energies, you can reduce the ecological footprint of your house and thus contribute to climate protection. At the same time, you can save energy with a new heating system, because most oil and gas heating systems are outdated and have poor efficiencies. Therefore a lot of heating energy is wasted.

Even if you choose a classic heating system that runs on fossil fuels, you may be able to save a lot of money.

Future-Oriented Heating Systems: Heat, Pellet & Co.

However, heating systems that use renewable energy are of course more future-oriented. You have a large selection of different systems. For example, there are heating systems that use solar energy or domestic hot water. Geothermal heating systems are also possible. Pellet heating systems are also considered climate-friendly. Which solution you choose depends not only on your preferences, but also on the individual circumstances. An energy consultant will find the optimal solution for you.

Before the “Sanierung”: Energy Consultation

Before you begin with the energy renovation, you should take an energy consultation. Only with the help of an expert can you get the best out of your house. This is due to the complexity of the topic.

A house is always an overall concept that is influenced by many small changes. These should influence each other as positively as possible. Individual renovation actions that are carried out unprofessionally often do not bring the desired effect or even lead to unexpected additional costs.

Certified Energy Consultants

In order to avoid this problem, let a certified energy consultant help you best. In Germany, these are certified and highly specialized professionals. These experts investigate the condition of the building and develops then together with you a concept for a meaningful and goal-prominent energy counselling.

He not only inspects the building, but also takes your needs into consideration and of course includes the budget in the planning.

In addition, he can point out possibilities to you that you did not even know existed before. If you are looking for a good energy consultant, you can for example contact the chamber of architects of your federal state or search the internet for a suitable expert.

State Subsidies

The German state encourages green energy, and therefore subsidizes it. Just like the energy renovation itself, the costs for the energy consultant can also be supported by subsidies. The Federal Office of Economics and Export Control subsidizes the energy consulting for single and two-family houses as well as for residential units.

• State subsidies – official site of the federal office (in German)

Redevelopment of Old Building

Renovating old buildings – Old buildings are very popular because of their unique structure. Large rooms with high windows and old wooden doors, which may creak a little when opening and closing, stand for a traditional way of life. Many of the buildings are more than one hundred years old. A renovation can give the apartments a new shine. If extensive work is planned both on the façade and the interior, it is advisable to relocate tenants in advance.

For a complete refurbishment, the move-out of tenants is even compulsory. The same applies to owners who, with the support of the owners’ association, have agreed on a renovation in a majority resolution. However, owners who have acquired a property for the first time also like to strive for a renovation of an old building with subsequent new letting. There is a good chance that the renovated apartments will enjoy great popularity in all regions of Germany and will subsequently be rented out at short notice.

Heating System

The topic of heating is not only interesting for building owners, but also for property owners. Heaters are not only necessary in a real estate, but also legally required. What types of heating are there, how do they have to be maintained and are there legal subsidies for the construction of certain types of heating or do the costs have to be paid completely by the owner?

• The whole guide: Heating

Solar heat: Solar Energy

Solar thermal is the process by which solar energy is converted into usable heat. In residential properties, the heat produced is usually used to heat water or for heating. Depending on the location and conditions of the property, this system can completely replace the previously used heating system.

State subsidy of 2,000 euros

Gas Heating: heating with natural gas, liquid gas or biogas

Gas heating is probably the most widespread type of heating in Germany and rightly so, because the system offers many advantages. Modern technology, efficiency and inexpensive offers characterize the gas heating. In addition, they are easy to combine with renewable energies, save space and can be easily installed during modernization and renovation.

Oil Heating: Heating with fuel oil or bio fuel oil

Oil heatings are after gas heatings the probably most frequently occurring systems in Germany. The function mode is simple and works for decades in the same way. The fuel fuel oil is pumped over an oil pipe to the heating system where it is sprayed and burned. The heat that is generated during this process is used to heat up the heating water and thus to heat the house. Most of these components can be found in the boiler, which now takes up little more than one square meter of space and can even be hung on the wall, depending on the model.

Pellet Heating: Ovens with pressed wood residues

A modern pellet heating system is known for low fuel costs as well as for environmentally friendly heating and is therefore one step ahead of conventional gas and oil heating systems. Also the function mode is relatively simple. The wood pellets are periodically delivered to the combustion chamber by means of a feeder, so the correct filling is fully automatic. The heat generated by burning the pellets is used in a separate boiler to heat the water. Thus, both the heating can be operated and the hot water can be produced.

Rental: Laws, Taxes & Tenants

Renting a property can be a great extra income, but it can also become your main job. Landlords have many duties towards the tenant and have to take care of the property. However, if this is successful, a lot of profit can result. We will explain how you can best let your property and how to find the right tenant for you.

There is so much to learn!

The Right Tenants, Suitable Lease & Co.

How do I set the rental price correctly? How does my advertisement appear attractive? And how do I draw up a suitable and fair rental contract? A future landlord asks himself all these questions, because in order to successfuly rent out a property, a lot of knowledge and experience is required. But if you follow a few simple steps, you will make the leap to a successful landlord and profit from the earnings.

In addition come: Landlords have many duties and tasks, among these are for example the organization when changing tenants or the annual preparation of a service charge statement for the tenant. The rent can be set with the help of the local rent index, but it must always be considered whether the region concerned has a rent brake or not. The rental agreement should be fair for both tenant and landlord and should regulate all important points. When choosing the right tenant, it is not only the sympathy effect that counts, but also other important factors, such as creditworthiness – learn everything you need to know about renting your property in our article.

The correct tenants, suitable lease & Co. read on here:

• Leasing out House & Apartment.

Conclusion: Renovate Property

A core renovation brings your property up to date and increases its value at the same time. It increases the comfort of living and in most cases also reduces the energy consumption of the house. As a result, energy costs and the C0² emissions of the house can be reduced. Since in the long run a change to non-fossil fuels from heating systems is inevitable, you can also equip your house for the future. In order to carry out a renovation as effectively as possible, it is essential to seek the advice of an energy expert.

Thinking about buying a house? These are the best methods to save money on your investment

• Saving Money – Tax Optimization on German Real Estate

Offers in different price categories

Buying your own farm as a permanent residence or as a weekend home. You need to decide if you want to buy a property in need of renovation. These farms can often be purchased at a very reasonable price. Alternatively, there are properties that have already been refurbished by their previous owner and are in a modern and very good condition. These farms are usually ready for immediate occupation. However, you will have to expect a higher purchase price. This is especially true if the farm is in a very central location with a good infrastructure.

If you have the intention to buy a farm, we are happy to assist you with our experience. Arrange a personal appointment with us, where we can discuss your individual ideas. We are happy to offer you various properties that are located in scenic regions and can be used in different ways.

Buy farm with need for renovation

Many farms are no longer in cultivation due to the changed structures in agriculture, but also due to the lack of offspring. Children and children’s children of the former owners move to the city and look for a new centre of life there. This is one of the reasons why many farms are for sale. With a farm complex, you are in many cases acquiring very large buildings that are already quite old and in need of a lot of renovation. The advantage of buying such a property is that you will be able to design it according to your personal preferences. In addition, you will acquire the farm at a particularly favourable price.

Special real estate with a small circle of interested parties

Because farms are traded as special properties that have a narrower range of buyers than single-family homes or condos, owners often accommodate buyers on price. If you can acquire a property particularly cheaply, you should not underestimate the need for renovation.

Mill, half-timbering, old factory and monument protection

Above all, it is important that they inform themselves about any existing requirements of the protection of historical monuments. This applies in particular to very old farms with historic buildings such as a mill or a small factory. The implementation of conditions imposed by the historic preservation office are often very costly. Even if you are willing to invest high costs for the renovation, it is important to know in advance. We offer you support. We will obtain the necessary information from the authorities on your behalf. In addition, it is advisable for you to commission an expert to provide an estimate of the expected construction costs. This will enable you to plan not only the purchase price but also the renovation costs very well and to know what the total investment will be when buying the farmhouse in need of renovation.

Farmhouses ready for occupancy as sought-after purchase object

In some regions that have a strong rural character, farms are offered that have already been renovated. The advantage is that you can move into the property promptly without much further investment and with little work. However, there are also disadvantages here that you should be aware of.

Need for renovation of the farm

If the renovation of the farm is already completed, you will usually have to pay a higher purchase price than if you decide to buy a renovation property. This is considered an advantage due to the low further investment costs. Sometimes, you will even pay less for a farm without the need for redevelopment than the total cost of the purchase and subsequent redevelopment would be. However, it does happen that the way in which a farmhouse has been refurbished does not meet your expectations. If you still like this property and decide to buy it, you will pay the high cost of the purchase and still have to put money into the renovation.

Caution: double investment

Consider in advance whether you are prepared to make such a double investment. In this case, too, we will be happy to provide you with expert advice. Inform us about your individual ideas and we will present you with properties that come close to these ideas. In many cases we will find a farm that suits you and meets all your expectations.

Where to buy? Location, location, location! Also for country houses

The location determines the price per square metre, but also the purchase price, land transfer tax and ancillary purchase costs. Since the choice of the farm is often relatively free, an analysis of the location is worthwhile in order to find the best yield regions / properties.

• Macro = Where in Germany?
• Meso = Where in the region?
• Micro = Where exactly is the property located?

Buying real estate: Tips from the investor (external)

Buying real estate but also investing in real estate requires a lot of knowledge and expertise. The best way to learn is to draw from the experience of professionals. Therefore, in conclusion, a recommendation for real estate beginners.

External guide (link opens in new tab):

• First property purchase
• Buying real estate: What to look out for?
• Buying mistakes
• Save taxes with real estate

Comparison of cities: Purchase prices in Germany (external)

In these individual guides to the major German cities are the important districts for real estate buyers, information on the infrastructure, as well as prerequisites for the purchase such as income, creditworthiness (credit rating), banks and equity. But much more important: mistakes, risks, rental yields and more. What is decisive for the purchase price and the valuation? Everything about location, building fabric, renovations, equipment and all that, free of charge.

External guides (link opens in new tab)

City / Purchase Price Current:

• Munich ~ 8,993 Euro / m²
• Frankfurt ~ 6,701 Euro / m²
• Stuttgart ~ 6,324 Euro / m²
• Berlin ~ 5,578 Euro / m²
• Hamburg ~ 5,507 Euro / m²
• Düsseldorf / Cologne ~ 5,470 Euro / m²

Real estate as an investment: Special

1. Part: Classic or exotic investment – Which property is suitable as an investment?
2. Part: Real estate as an investment – What do I have to watch out for?

Acquire building land, garden land and farmland

Topic: Buying land. Many farms are sold with larger lands. Here it is important that you know the difference between building land garden land and farmland. In addition, you should know how you may use the respective lands.

Differences in use and development

If you would like to erect further buildings, this is only possible if you acquire building land. Garden land and farmland differ in terms of their use. We will be happy to find out for you before you buy whether there are any conditions attached to the use of the land. Sometimes it is a landscape area that is intended for a certain use. In this case, you should only purchase the property if you plan to farm the land. If you are looking for a property for purely residential purposes, it is only possible to purchase the farm if the lands become your property and are not intended for a specific use.

Not far from Munich, the Alps and the Alpine foothills. Extremely popular, especially in terms of luxury real estate. Old farms are being renovated and extended, with wellness area, carport and much more. Modern life and country air.

Conclusion: Buy Farm

The purchase of a farm should be well thought out in advance, because it is not uncommon that further inventories are required. Cities and municipalities can also determine how the land may be used. Requirements of the protection of historical monuments are not at all uncommon. Lukinski offers professional advice if you want to buy a farm. Please feel free to make an appointment for a first personal meeting, where we can present you first objects.

• Buy a holiday home

Buying a weekend house: Renting as an option

Buying a weekend house – A weekend house can be used in a very diverse way. You can spend your free time and holidays there. In addition, it is possible to rent out the weekend house and thus generate additional income. Weekend houses are quite often on offer in Hesse and Rhineland-Palatinate. There are many beautiful regions in the federal states that are very popular with the people who live there.

Some weekend homes are located in popular holiday regions. Others are considered more of an insider tip and are hidden away on the edge of the mountains, near the Main River or in the middle of nature. If you want to buy a weekend house, you can choose whether you prefer nature, water or mountains. Decide on a location that you individually prefer. Weekend homes are not designed for residential purposes. They are for recreational purposes. For this reason, it is important that you feel comfortable in the area. If you are planning a rental, you should find out which locations are particularly popular. We will be happy to assist you in this and offer you weekend houses that exactly meet your individual requirements.

• Buy weekend house

All the facts – alimony in separation and divorce

Separation maintenance is payable for the period between separation and divorce. However, the payment of separation maintenance is subject to certain conditions. Moreover, separation maintenance is not calculated automatically, but must be applied for separately. But when is there a claim to separation maintenance? How much is it? And what about maintenance after the divorce?

The most important at a glance:

• In order to claim separation maintenance, a number of requirements must be met. The spouses must live separately from each other and one of the two must be needy and the other must be able to perform.
• Separation maintenance is calculated according to the adjusted net income of the spouses. This is calculated with reference to many different financial factors
• Separation maintenance is generally payable for the period from separation to divorce and is intended to ensure a similar standard of living for both partners even after separation.
• Even if the separation maintenance ceases after the divorce, the maintenance obligation does not also end automatically. Post-marital maintenance must be applied for again separately after the divorce.

When is there a claim to separation maintenance?

As long as a marriage exists, the spouses are also responsible for each other, even if they live separately. This refers especially to the financial aspect, as this changes significantly for both partners after a separation. Generally speaking, the person who cannot support themselves is entitled to separation maintenance, but this only applies if the other partner earns enough money to be able to pay maintenance at all. However, these rules are subject to certain conditions.

Living apart from each other

A prerequisite for receiving separation maintenance is that both partners live separately from each other. This is possible both in separate dwellings and in the same dwelling. The decisive factor is that both partners run a separate household from each other. Things such as shopping or eating meals together are therefore done separately from each other. When separating, it is also important to record the exact date, both for determining the separation year and for other legal consequences of the separation. A document signed by both partners with the date and content of the separation is therefore helpful for taking further legal steps.

The neediness of a partner

The partner who demands separation maintenance must be needy according to the law. There are no fixed framework conditions for this principle. The decisive factor is the income of both spouses that was achieved during the marriage. The aim is that the person entitled to maintenance should be able to maintain a similar standard of living during the separation as before the separation. This arrangement is particularly important for spouses where one of them has not worked during the marriage and has no income of his or her own.

The performance of the partner

In order for the person entitled to maintenance to be able to claim maintenance at all, the partner must be able to pay. This means that the partner must be able to pay maintenance without jeopardising his or her own reasonable livelihood. The paying partner must have a deductible after deducting the maintenance. If this is less than 1,200 euros per month or if the paying partner only receives unemployment benefit I or II, he or she does not usually have to pay separation maintenance.

If all these conditions are met, one of the spouses is entitled to separation maintenance. However, this must be applied for and is not automatically paid to the spouse in need.

• In order to claim separation maintenance, a number of conditions must be met
• The spouses must live separately and one of the two must be indigent and the other must be able to pay.

How is separation maintenance calculated?

In general, each spouse is entitled to half of the total disposable income, but the working spouse receives a kind of employment bonus amounting to one seventh of the income. The maintenance claim therefore amounts to three sevenths of the adjusted net income of the spouse according to the Düsseldorf table. However, this calculation is only applied if the maintenance recipient does not generate any income of his or her own. However, if the recipient of maintenance is gainfully employed himself, the maintenance amounts to three sevenths of the difference between the two adjusted net incomes. If both partners work, the maintenance claim is lower.

However, the law does not provide a uniform rule for calculating the adjusted net income on which the amount of separation maintenance is based. In determining this income, the family courts are guided by guidelines issued by the competent higher regional court. To determine this, a large number of factors are usually added together and an average monthly income is calculated from this for the time during the marriage. Here, not only the income plays a role, but also factors such as back taxes, income from renting or leasing and Christmas and holiday bonuses.

• The separation maintenance is calculated according to the adjusted net income of the spouses
• Adjusted net income is calculated with reference to many different financial factors

How long is there entitlement to separation maintenance?

Separation maintenance is generally calculated from the time of separation until the divorce. How long the separation lasts is not important. In certain cases, however, the obligation to pay maintenance can also end earlier. For example, if the spouse entitled to maintenance earns enough money himself or herself and is no longer dependent on maintenance, if the spouse entitled to maintenance lives permanently with a new partner or if the spouse entitled to maintenance has committed a serious criminal offence against the other. In these cases, it always depends on the individual situation.

• Separation maintenance is generally payable for the period from separation to divorce
• Separation maintenance is intended to guarantee both partners a similar standard of living even after separation

Maintenance after divorce – spousal maintenance and separation maintenance

The right to separation maintenance expires with the divorce, but this does not mean that the obligation to pay maintenance ends. After the divorce, maintenance can still be claimed, namely post-marital spousal maintenance. This is usually even the same amount, unless the income situation has changed with the divorce. However, it should be noted that post-marital spousal maintenance must also be applied for separately and is not paid automatically, even if separation maintenance was previously paid!

• Even if the separation maintenance ceases after the divorce, the obligation to pay maintenance does not end automatically.
• Post-marital maintenance must be applied for again separately after divorce

Divorce: guide, help and tips

Divorce is complex, it’s true. But you are not alone! Many let themselves separate and in fact, a large part always finds a good solution. Only a small part ends in a quarrel. So that you can prepare well, you will find here our small guides and tips on divorce, family, money and real estate.

• Divorce: Guide

The garden design: furniture & decoration

The garden design includes countless areas. You decide not only where to put the pond, which garden furniture to buy and where to put it, but also the general style of the garden and how you want to decorate it.

Garden furniture: from the lounger to the dining table

Through garden furniture you decide how you want to spend time in your garden. Do you want to comfortably drink coffee and eat cake in your garden with the family, sunbathe on the lounger or barbecue with friends in the evening? Not everyone has a garden large enough, or enough space to accommodate several of these options. For this reason, the decision for the right garden furniture should be sufficiently considered. Garden furniture varies not only in options for use, but also in color, material, and shape. If you are still unsure about deciding on the right garden furniture, you can read our article that deals specifically with this topic.

• Turn your garden into an oasis of well-being: Furniture for your garden

Transforming the garden through decoration

How do you envision the end result of your garden? What feeling do you want to create when someone enters your garden? These questions are important before you decide whether your garden will be a kitchen garden, an ornamental garden or a herb garden. The most important thing is that you feel comfortable there in the end. Once you have decided, you still have the possibility to influence the feeling you have in your garden by decorating it. If you are lacking the right decoration ideas, it can be useful to visit a garden centre and get inspiration or advice there. If you are clever and creative, you can watch the videos at the bottom of the article, because there you will see decoration ideas to make yourself.

11 Garden Center Munich: The best recommendations

You come from Munich or near Munich and are looking for a store where you can buy all the items for your garden? Then you are looking for a garden center. Which are the best in your area, we have found out for you. No matter what you’re looking for, you’re sure to find it in one of these garden centres.

Pflanzen-Kölle Garden Center GmbH & Co. KG Munich

This garden center is very popular in Munich. Despite countless Google reviews, the garden center comes to a proud 4.5 stars. Especially if you plan to spend a longer time in the garden center, this could be the right thing for you, because here you can find not only garden accessories, but also a restaurant, a bakery and zoo supplies.

Garden centre Seebauer

Customers who visit the Seebauer garden centre are particularly impressed by the helpful, knowledgeable staff. There is not only a huge assortment, but also the quality of the plants is often praised. Especially if you are not so experienced and therefore need advice, you will be welcomed nicely here. The Seebauer garden centre has a Google rating of 4.5 stars. If you plan to spend a longer period in the garden center, you can strengthen yourself in between in the associated café.

• Ottobrunner Str. 61
  81737 Munich
• Phone: 089 6800900
• Garden centre Seebauer Website

Hagebaumarkt & Garden Centre Munich North

If you’re from the north of Munich, this 4.1-star rated garden centre could be the one for you. Particularly practical: the garden centre is linked to the hagebaumarkt, which is right next door. So if you’re planning a visit to the DIY store anyway, you have the option of making two visits at the same time. Even if you just want to be inspired, you can take a little tour of the garden centre after your visit to the DIY store. A large assortment awaits you here.

• Lerchenauer Str. 134
  80809 Munich
• Phone: 089 35893270
• Hagebaumarkt & Gartencenter Munich North Website
• Hagebaumarkt & Gartencenter Munich North Facebook

Dehner Garden Center

Rating: 4.1 / 5.0

• Kirchtruderinger Str. 20
  81829 Munich
• Phone: 089 42730480
• Dehner Garden Center Website

Hagebaumarkt & Garden Center Hofmannstraße

Rating: 4.0 / 5.0

• Hofmannstrasse 10
  81379 Munich
• Phone: 089 8569840
• Hagebaumarkt & Gartencenter Hofmannstraße Website

Blumen- und Gartencenter Wolf – Gardening and landscaping

Rating: 4.3 / 5.0

• Heidemannstrasse 6 – 8
  80939 Munich
• Phone: 089 3116084
• Blumen- und Gartencenter Wolf – Garden and landscaping website

Garden centre Reim

Rating: 4.7 / 5.0

• Glücksburger Str. 1
  81929 Munich
• Phone: 089 931738
• Garden centre Reim Website

Seeds Schmitz GmbH

Rating: 4.2 / 5.0

• Viktualienmarkt 5
  80331 Munich
• Phone: 089 23241880
• Samen Schmitz GmbH Website

Floraland Munich

Rating: 4.5 / 5.0

• Meglingerstrasse 31
  81477 Munich
• Phone: 089 92927860
• Floraland Munich Website

Anton Hinkofer GmbH

Rating: 4.5 / 5.0

• Lake Constance Road 103
  81243 Munich
• Phone: 089 837912
• Anton Hinkofer GmbH Website

Greenhope GmbH – Greenhouse technology and plant supplies

Rating: 4.7 / 5.0

• Tagetes Street 6
  80935 Munich
• Phone: 089 2606809
• Greenhope GmbH Website

Munich city map for directions

Garden Ideas: Designing, planting and digging

You are motivated to change something in your garden, you have already found a garden center where you can buy the necessary materials and now you are just missing the right ideas and inspiration? In these three videos you will see different decoration ideas for your garden. Each idea has something special, which is why there will certainly be one that suits your ideas.

Garden decoration from garbage

This garden decoration not only looks incredibly great, because in the production you save money and waste at the same time. Since there is a lot of waste every day, it is especially good to be able to process this into something useful. If you decide to rebuild this garden decoration, then you have not only recycled something useful, but built a real highlight for your garden.

Flower decoration for terrace or balcony

If you are looking for adorable, more simple garden decorations, then this video might be just what you are looking for. Especially if you prefer a more romantic, sweet style for your garden, the flower decoration fits perfectly. If you are invited to a garden party at a friend’s house, you might consider making this garden decoration and giving it as a gift.

Rustic garden decoration

Within 7 minutes you will be demonstrated in this video a garden decoration – idea to make yourself. If you prefer the cottage garden style for your garden, then it might be worth the effort for you. Also this idea could be a suitable gift for a family member or close friends. For moving into a house with a garden this gift is ideal, because the efforts were put until then mostly in the house – interior, so that the garden is often disregarded.