Immobilien: „Am begehrtesten ist die klassische Burg mit Mauern und Turm“

Matthias Helzel, an experienced real estate broker, often sees tears in his eyes as he mediates the purchase of historical buildings such as castles and estates. These transactions are not merely financial decisions, but are driven by a passion for the subject matter, a passion that Helzel himself shares. Helzel, along with two partners, has been mediating the sale of castles and estates for the past 20 years.

The unique charm of castles and estates lies in their history and the emotions they evoke. While the terms "castle" and "barn" were often used interchangeably in the Middle Ages, the distinction between the two became clearer during the early modern period. However, in many castles, there are still impressive rooms and spaces that can be appreciated for their beauty.

Among Helzel's portfolio, the classic castle with high walls and a tall tower is the most sought-after property. These are often buildings built in the style of the "castle romance" period, which may not have a strictly military function. These types of properties are highly desirable among buyers who seek the romantic image of a castle with a tower.

Some of the castles and estates Helzel mediates are registered as protected monuments and require careful preservation. While this can sometimes make the sale process more complex, many buyers view the preservation of historical integrity as a valuable aspect of owning such a property. Helzel's team works closely with potential buyers to discuss the requirements and benefits of maintaining a protected monument, including potential tax benefits and grant opportunities.

While some buyers may have misconceptions about the process of buying a protected monument, Helzel and his team take the time to educate these individuals early on in the process. Many prospective castle owners understand that they will need the expertise of architects and specialized craftsmen to maintain and restore these historical properties. Helzel can provide numerous contacts in this field to help potential buyers navigate the unique challenges of owning a castle or estate.

In terms of market pressure, the castle and estate market can be quite different from the residential property market. While castle prices are often high, there has been a relatively stable supply of these properties over time. However, the cost of buying a castle or estate can easily exceed one million euros, especially in areas far from major cities. Many of these properties require significant maintenance and renovation, which can add to the overall cost of ownership.

Occasionally, there are auctions for castle and estate properties, but interest is not usually high, as many sellers prefer to find the right buyer rather than selling to the highest bidder. Some sellers may be family members who have owned the property for generations or individuals who no longer wish to manage the property and its associated responsibilities. In some cases, descendants from abroad may choose to repurchase family estates that have been in the family for centuries.