Document background
The Sale and Purchase Deed (Kaufvertrag) is a fundamental legal instrument in German real estate transactions, used whenever real property ownership needs to be transferred between parties. This document is essential for both residential and commercial property transactions in Germany and must be executed before a notary public, who ensures compliance with all legal requirements and explains the content to all parties involved. The deed contains crucial information about the property, parties, purchase price, payment terms, and conditions for transfer, while also addressing matters such as warranties, encumbrances, and tax obligations. It serves as the basis for the property registration in the land register (Grundbuch) and triggers various legal obligations including the payment of real estate transfer tax. The document's format and content are heavily regulated by German civil law, particularly the German Civil Code (BGB) and related property legislation.
