10 Questions to Ask Before Signing

Found the apartment you’ve been looking for?

A property viewing can create an immediate feeling of excitement. But before making an offer or signing a purchase agreement, it is essential to take a step back and ask the right questions.

Buying property in Luxembourg is a major financial commitment. A property may look perfect during a viewing while hiding factors that could significantly affect your budget, comfort or future resale value.

At ImmoStep, we recommend checking these 10 key points before making your decision.

1. What is the total cost of the property?

The asking price is not necessarily the total cost of your purchase.

Make sure you consider all additional costs, including acquisition costs, potential renovation work, financing costs, fees and ongoing expenses.

Key takeaway: Always think in terms of your total acquisition budget, not just the advertised price.

2. How much are the monthly condominium charges?

Service charges can vary significantly from one residence to another.

Ask for:

• the current monthly charges;
• what is included;
• any planned or recently approved works;
• the condominium reserve fund;
• any outstanding issues or unpaid charges within the co-ownership.

A property with high ongoing charges can have a much higher real cost than a similar property.

3. Are major works planned for the building?

This is one of the questions you should never overlook.

Find out about the condition of the roof, façade, lift, common areas, heating system and insulation.

An apartment can be in excellent condition while the building itself may require significant works in the near future.

These costs can have a direct impact on your budget.

4. What is the property's energy performance?

Ask to see the property's Energy Performance Certificate (CPE).

Energy performance can affect:

• heating costs;
• everyday comfort;
• future renovation requirements;
• the property's attractiveness to future buyers or tenants.

It is therefore an important document to review before making a decision.

5. Has the property had any previous problems or major repairs?

Don't focus only on the decoration.

Ask whether the property has experienced:

• damp or moisture problems;
• water damage or leaks;
• electrical issues;
• major repairs;
• recent renovations;
• recurring maintenance problems.

A recently renovated property should also be examined carefully to understand what work was carried out and how it was done.

6. What is the legal status of the property?

Before committing yourself, make sure the essential legal information concerning the property is clear.

Depending on the property, it may be important to check ownership details, easements, rights attached to the property and relevant condominium documentation.

For specific legal matters, your notary remains the key professional to consult before completing the transaction.

7. What exactly is included in the sale?

This may sound obvious, but make sure you clearly understand what is included in the purchase.

For example:

• cellar or storage room;
• garage or parking space;
• attic;
• terrace;
• garden;
• furniture or equipment, where applicable.

Anything agreed verbally should be clearly reflected in the transaction documents.

8. What is the property's resale or rental potential?

Even if you are buying the property as your primary residence, think about where you may be in five or ten years.

Ask yourself:

Will the area remain attractive?

Will the property meet the expectations of future buyers or tenants?

Is the layout desirable?

Are there any factors that could make the property difficult to resell?

A property purchase should be viewed as a long-term decision, not simply as a purchase based on emotion.

9. Is the asking price actually in line with the market?

This is arguably one of the most important questions.

A property may appear attractive or reasonably priced without necessarily reflecting its true market value.

A proper comparison should take into account:

• location;
• size;
• condition;
• floor;
• natural light;
• outdoor space;
• parking;
• quality of finishes;
• condition of the building and condominium.

Price per square metre is an indicator — but it is not, on its own, a property valuation.

10. What happens after signing the purchase agreement?

Before signing, make sure you clearly understand the next steps.

Ask about:

• the conditions included in the agreement;
• important deadlines;
• documents that still need to be provided;
• the financing process;
• the steps leading to the final notarial deed.

Never sign a document you do not fully understand.

If you have any doubts, ask your real estate agent, bank or notary for clarification before committing yourself.

Before You Sign, Take the Time to Check.

A successful property purchase is not simply about finding a beautiful property.

It is about determining whether that property genuinely fits your budget, your needs and your long-term strategy.

At ImmoStep, we believe that good real estate advice starts well before the signature.

Found a property in Luxembourg and considering making an offer?

Contact ImmoStep before you commit.

Our goal is to help you move forward with a clear understanding of the property, its environment and your real estate project.

ImmoStep — Your next step in real estate starts here.