Selling a house is a big decision—emotionally, financially, and organizationally. Many homeowners ask themselves, „What’s the best way to go about selling my house?“
To make sure you don’t forget anything, here’s the ultimate house selling checklist for Austria , which will help you complete every step professionally and stress-free.

This checklist was created specifically for the Austrian real estate market and takes into account all legal, tax, and practical points you need to consider before, during, and after the sale.


1. Selling a house checklist Austria – Overview

Before you get started, you should know: A successful home sale consists of several phases.
Our Austria House Selling Checklist divides the process into four main areas:

  1. Preparation and evaluation

  2. Marketing and presentation

  3. Negotiation and legal settlement

  4. Handover and post-processing

With this structure, you can ensure that no important step is missed.


2. Preparation – the basis for a successful sale

Before you list your home, you should get a clear picture of the current market and the value of your property.

2.1 Conduct a property valuation

  • Have your house professionally appraised.

  • Online tools or experts from Ideal Real will help you determine the realistic selling price.

  • Realistic pricing ensures faster sales and more interested parties.

2.2 Collect documents

To be prepared for inquiries, you will need the following documents:

  • Land register extract

  • Energy certificate (mandatory in Austria!)

  • Construction and submission plans

  • Purchase contract / invoices for renovations

  • Operating cost statements

2.3 Minor repairs and cosmetic work

A well-groomed appearance is crucial.

  • Repaint the walls.

  • Repair minor defects.

  • Maintain order and brightness.


3. Marketing – How to reach potential buyers

3.1 Professional photos

Invest in high-quality photos—they’re your most important selling tool.
Tip: Show your house in natural light, open, and inviting.

3.2 Advertisements on real estate portals

Use well-known platforms like willhaben.at or immobilien.net.
Provide all important information and ensure an attractive property description.

3.3 Sale through broker or privately

If you need support, you can contact Ideal Real .
The team will handle marketing, filtering inquiries, and the entire sales process – stress-free and transparent .

If you prefer to sell privately, you will also find helpful guides and templates on the site.


4. Consider legal and tax issues

4.1 Real estate income tax (ImmoESt)

Real estate capital gains tax may apply upon sale —usually 30% of the profit.
However, if your home was your primary residence, you may be exempt.

4.2 Notary and purchase agreement

A notarized purchase agreement is mandatory in Austria.
It ensures that the sale is handled legally.

4.3 Energy certificate

Mandatory document!
You cannot sell your house without a valid energy performance certificate (no older than 10 years).

Ideal Real supports you in organizing and reviewing all necessary documents.


5. Price negotiation – How to get the best price

  • Set your price with some room for negotiation.

  • Prepare for questions and counteroffers.

  • Don’t let yourself be pressured – patience usually pays off.

Experienced agents at Ideal Real will help you identify realistic offers and get the most out of your sale.


6. Purchase contract and payment security

Once you’ve reached an agreement with the buyer, the purchase contract will be drawn up.
Make sure the payment is processed through an escrow account —this way, both parties are legally protected.

  • Contract preparation: approx. 1–3% of the sales price (notary/lawyer)

  • Payment via escrow: additional security for sellers and buyers


7. House handover – The final step

After payment and registration of the property , the house is handed over .
Prepare a handover protocol that includes the following:

  • Date and time

  • Condition of the property

  • Meter readings (electricity, gas, water)

  • Keys handed over

This way you are on the safe side if there are any discrepancies later.


8. After the sale – what you shouldn’t forget

  • Report the sale to the tax office and the municipality.

  • Cancel insurance and contracts (e.g. electricity, water, garbage collection).

  • Check whether you are eligible for tax exemptions.


9. Selling a house checklist Austria – Summary

Here is a compact overview:

✅ Determine property value
✅ Prepare documents
✅ Create energy performance certificate
✅ Repair house
✅ Create photos and advertisements
✅ Set selling price
✅ Choose estate agent or self-sale
✅ Instruct notary
✅ Conclude purchase agreement
✅ Handover and deregistration

If you keep these points in mind, you will be well prepared to sell your house.


10. Conclusion – With the right checklist for a stress-free house sale

With the Austria House Selling Checklist, you’ll have all the steps in view – from preparation to handover.
Whether you’re selling privately or working with an experienced partner like Ideal Real , the key to success is good organization and legal certainty.

A structured process saves time, money, and stress – and ensures that your home sale goes smoothly.


Final tip:

Start now with a free property valuation on Ideal Real and find out how much your home is worth and what steps you should take next.