Land register excerpt before land purchase / contract review

Exactly, "lastenfrei" refers to the land register. Usually, the contract explicitly states that no inspection of the Baulastenverzeichnis is taken, that is the buyer's responsibility.

Correct, the notary does not do that and it could potentially lead to problems with financing.

Gentlemen. You are right. I was mentally too attached to the land register. Karsten

In our specific case, it is a plot of land in a new development area that is currently being developed. We are buying it directly from the municipality. How useful would it be to hire a separate lawyer to review the contract in this case?

If you are buying it directly from the municipality and in a new development area, then you don’t need to worry at all. It is sufficient to take a quick look at it during the notary appointment. The municipality is not allowed to "foist" anything on you in new development areas that would be disadvantageous to you.

Of course, the situation is different when buying from a private seller. In that case, it is essential to inform yourself in good time about all documents and, if applicable, any encumbrances on the property.

Best regards Bookstar