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Belgium proprty buying process
I would like to buy a flat in central Brussels and would like to be clear on the process.
I've seen mentioned in the forums that having a good notaire is important, but I'm not sure where to get a recommendation from.
Does anyone have any web links that they can share where I might be able to get some clear information about the buying process and notaire recommendations?
Thanks!
Rule one: be certain where you finance is going to come from, and, if you need a loan, how much you will be able to borrow and who is willing to lend to you - you will need to put up a 10% deposit at the second stage of the buying process (typically within a fortnight of your option being accepted).
Rule two: find your notaire and have him/her explain to you all the implications of the buying process (including limitations on the rights of succession).
Rule three: understand that when your notaire tells you that the moment you take an option and that option is accepted by the seller, you (and the seller) are committed to the transaction (unless your option contains a clear condition - typically that you can obtain a suitable mortgage), he or she wasn't overstating the situation. After acceptance of an option, the buying process still has two stages to go through, but that doesn't give either party the opportunity to drop out.
Rule four: unlike in the UK, the buying process doesn't involve the use of a surveyor (other than for a quick check by any mortgagor that the property is likely to be worth more than the mortgage) - you are responsible for checking for any faults and adjusting your offer accordingly. (Property in Belgium is generally well built.)
A few further points.
The price that a notaire charges is fixed by law and based on the selling price so shopping around isn't going to save you any money.
The notaire's bill and all the other charges involved in buying a property are likely to add almost 15% to the selling price.
The time between finalising the sale and taking possession can be as long as 4 months rather than the typical 28 days which is common in UK. This takes account of the fact that, if you are moving from rented accommodation, you will have to give 3 calendar months notice there.
Love love love my notaire
http://www.notaire.be/Etude/bernard---bruno-michaux/223125
He is amazing and speaks English perfectly. His office is always willing to make appointments and I never have to wait long. Very fast response via emails as well. I cannot say enough good things about him.
And that a notaire makes or breaks a real estate deal. Having a good one who looks out for you is very important.
