Buying a flat in Brussels: 9 tips from professionals

Tip 1: Make a list of your criteria

Buying a house, studio or flat must meet certain selection criteria that vary from person to person. Therefore, it is highly recommended to make a detailed list of what you would like to find in the property to be purchased. For buying a flat in Brussels, the most popular criteria are:

• The surface area (in m2)

• The number of rooms

• The layout: duplex or penthouse

• The type of building

• The location: located in the centre of Brussels or on the outskirts

• The type of property: new or existing

• Outdoor spaces: terrace, balcony, etc.

These points will determine your research. They can also influence several factors: price, financing, additional costs or works.

Consider prioritising these criteria. Prioritisation will allow you to focus your search as much as possible.

Buying property takes time. Reviewing your needs today will make your future research easier.

Tip 2: Plan your long-term payment capacity

Becoming a homeowner is a great project. You definitely have the ability to make this purchase today. Note that your investment could put you in debt for between 10 and 25 years.

To meet your financial obligations, look into the future and check whether, even a few years from now, you will still be able to repay your monthly payments.

Many things can happen in such a long time. Therefore, ask yourself the right questions before you start:

• Is your professional situation stable?

• Do you expect a steady increase in your income?

• Are you planning to have children?

• Is the home you want likely to be suitable for them or will you need to change it after a few years?

If all the lights are green, we can start looking for your property among our exceptional properties in the portfolio.

Tip 3: Ask one of our estate agents for advice

Data on the property market can help you see things more clearly. So you can consult studies published by specialised federations, analyse online ads, consult notaries.

However, nothing beats field research and the advice of a professional in the desired region.
That is why it is a good idea to call on our agents in the Brussels Region, who will inform you about prices, properties for sale in the district in which you wish to settle and about the procedures to be carried out. .

Register your search in the Engel & Völkers branchclosest to you or in the neighbourhood where you would like to live in the near future.

Tip 4: Visit our prestigious properties

During your first appointment with one of our agents, and tell him/her your criteria and your wishes: comfort, neighbourhood, transport. Make sure you express your wish clearly to avoid wasting time.

Visit as many accommodations as possible that meet your criteria. So you will have to spend time there. But this is not wasted time, because with each visit you can refine your criteria: a high floor, a terrace, a ground-floor garden, a separate toilet ... and come back to certain favourites.

Keep an eye out. Arrive a little early for the appointment and get to know the neighbourhood. Evaluate the amenities in relation to transport.

• Is there really a metro, tram or train station nearby?

• Are there schools, amenities, shops?

You can check all this by talking to local traders, a neighbour ...

Inside the flat, inspect everything from floor to ceiling, including outbuildings (parking, basement ...). Don't be fooled by appearances, ask our agent for all necessary information.

To note: Check the common areas and if you are seriously considering buying a particular flat, don't forget to ask for the minutes of the most recent general meetings, so you don't run the risk of having to pay additional fees for the flat.

Tip 5: Plan for any renovations

Generally, an existing flat with works is less expensive than a renovated or new property. So you may be able to get a good deal. As long as you check that the work to be carried out does not involve a large cost. It is best to go with a structural engineer or architect to estimate the cost of the works.

Some are aesthetic, while others are upgrades and can lead to very high costs. Don't hesitate to discuss it with our estate agent. At his best, he will know how to guide you.

Tip 6: Make an offer to buy property

If you like the flat we found for you that you have just visited, make an offer to buy it.

If the owner accepts it, he is obliged to sell it to you. Make an offer in line with the market of the sector. Otherwise, you run the risk of the owner intervening and refusing to sell to you. We also offer you models of offer letters to buy property. The sales agreement or promise that follows will commit you to buy the property (except for conditions precedent such as obtaining credit). Keep in mind that if this offer is made without conditions, you can no longer revoke. So be careful before signing your purchase offer: include at least one condition precedent to granting credit.

What is the difference between an offer to buy and a compromise?

The offer to buy, also known as a purchase offer, is the first step in buying a property. It takes the form of a document that allows a buyer interested in housing to offer the seller to buy their property for a certain amount.

Unlike the offer to buy, the sales agreement is a document that seals the agreement between the seller and the buyer. By signing this document, they commit to each other. Thus, the seller undertakes to sell his property to the buyer, at the price and on the terms he has stipulated, and the buyer undertakes to buy it from him on the same terms.

Tip 7: Take care of your property finance plan

Few buyers can buy without a mortgage. You probably have no choice and will have to spend time looking for financing solutions that fit your profile and budget.

• First look at the loans with special conditions (large family, listed building, etc.) that you can get.

• Investigate all financing options for which you are eligible, taking into account your personal and professional situation.

• Contact several banking institutions and compare the rates obtained (it is the right time)

• Engage a broker to take care of these procedures.

Tip 8: Choose your notary

If you do not have a notary, we usually let the seller's notary guide us. Note that you have the option of asking another notary to handle the purchase transaction of your flat.

In this case, two notaries work together. One looking after the seller's interests, the other looking after yours.
Either way, be aware that the costs are the same, with both notaries sharing the fees.

Tip 9: Get support from professionals

Acquiring real estate is not a trivial matter. Several thousands or even millions of euros are sometimes at stake.

Real estate can seem a complex domain, but if you surround yourself with experienced professionals such as estate agents from Engel & Völkers, you should be able to complete the purchase of your flat in Brussels perfectly. They will be happy to guide you throughout your project.