Immobilien: Wann ist es sinnvoll, die Grundschuld löschen zu lassen?

A Grundschuld is a legal entry in the land register, separate from the remaining loan balance. When an owner fully repays their mortgage, the bank typically no longer requires the original loan amount. However, the Grundschuld can remain as collateral in the land register. Keeping the Grundschuld after repaying the mortgage can be beneficial in certain situations.

For instance, if the property owner needs funds for major renovations, conversions, energy efficiency upgrades, or installing solar panels, an existing Grundschuld can act as security for a new loan, avoiding additional Notary and land registry fees. Similarly, when purchasing a second property or home, an existing Grundschuld might serve as collateral, potentially simplifying financing and reducing costs.

However, it's important to note that a Grundschuld alone does not guarantee a bank will grant a new loan. The bank's decision depends on factors such as creditworthiness, income, loan-to-value ratio, and the specific terms of the financing. In cases where a property is to be sold, the Verbraucherzentrale Nordrhein-Westfalen advises property owners to eliminate the Grundschuld.

This is because buyers usually prefer to purchase a property without any outstanding obligations. The Notary coordinates the necessary steps between the seller, buyer, and financing institution. Additionally, Grundschuld deletion may be advantageous in scenarios where property is transferred within a family, such as when parents transfer ownership to their children under a right of inheritance or cohabitation.

Eliminating the Grundschuld ensures proper records and prevents potential issues if the children face financial difficulties and attempt to secure a new loan. The cost of Grundschuld deletion varies depending on the amount owed. For a Grundschuld of 200,000 euros, the total fees for Notary and land registry typically amount to around 800 euros.

On the other hand, if the property owner retains the Grundschuld and retains the right to use it as collateral later, they may avoid these costs altogether. Therefore, it is crucial to weigh whether the Grundschuld still holds practical value before deciding to have it deleted.