Commercial real estate sales. Erika Winter, 65, wants to retire after 30 years as an entrepreneur. She has already handed over her company, but her own warehouse south of Vienna, near Wiener Neudorf, is still on the books. "Should I rent it out or sell it?" After discussions with her tax advisor and a real estate agent, one thing is clear: the Commercial real estate for sale is the better choice. But what's the right way to go about it? This article takes Erika through all the steps - and shows you what to look out for.
Real estate valuation: the starting point for every successful sale
The warehouse has been rented out for years. This means for the valuation: Income capitalization approach. The focus is not only on the year of construction and condition, but above all on sustainable rental income.
Important valuation factors:
- Location & infrastructure (e.g. transport links)
- Technical condition & equipment
- Legal framework (dedication, type of use)
- Market environment & vacancy rate
The income capitalization approach is ideal for rented commercial properties. It is based on the net income to be generated by the property less management costs. In comparison, the asset value method is mainly used for owner-occupied or vacant properties, while the comparative value method is based on active purchases of similar properties.
Document check: You need these documents for the sale
Erika compiles all the documents together with her estate agent. This saves time in the sales process and prevents queries.
| Required documents | Why is it important? |
|---|---|
| Land register extract | Proof of ownership, freedom from encumbrances |
| Energy certificate | Mandatory document for sale according to EAVG |
| Rental agreement(s) | Basis for capitalized earnings value & buyer decision |
| Building plans & permits | Legal certainty & transparency |
| Use value appraisal | Only relevant for condominiums |
| Land use and development plan | Review of development potential |
| Operating plant license | Relevance for existing use or new letting |
Note: Information on contaminated sites, rights of way or easements can also be decisive for the purchase. Precise preparation of all documents is also important with regard to financing checks by potential buyers.
Marketing: Visibility creates demand
Erika's estate agent relies on professional photos, drone footage and an exposé with all the technical data. The warehouse appears on all common real estate platforms and business networks.
Important channels:
- Online portals & industry platforms
- Broker networks
- Regional newspapers
- Trade associations & Chamber of Commerce
- LinkedIn & Business Networks
A particularly important criterion is the description of possible uses and the approval situation. Buyers also attach importance to detailed information on operating costs, technical installations and expansion reserves.
Tip: Marketing to specific target groups pays off. Contact logistics companies, production companies or property developers directly.
Law & Taxes: The often underestimated complexity
At the Commercial real estate for sale civil law, tax law and land register law intertwine. Business assets, real estate companies and input tax deduction entitlement are particularly complex.
Please note:
- Value added tax liability: Sales tax may be incurred for properties held as business assets. Check the option for tax liability according to §11 UStG.
- Real estate income tax (ImmoESt): For private disposals 30 % on the capital gain. Business disposals can also trigger corporation tax.
- Real estate transfer tax: Carried by the buyer, 3.5 % of the purchase price.
- Land register entry: 1.1 % Registration fee + notary fees.
The following points should be regulated in the contract:
- Value added tax clause
- Warranty exclusion
- Handover modalities
- Liability for legacy burdens & liabilities
Tip: Consult a tax advisor and real estate lawyer at an early stage. Fiduciary processing via a notary or lawyer is also recommended.
Read also: Tax consequences when selling business real estate
The WKO explains in compact form what you need to pay attention to with regard to real estate income tax and the sale of a business. To the WKO overview
Checklist: 7 steps to a successful sale
| Step | Description |
| 1 | Commissioning a market value appraisal |
| 2 | Compile documents |
| 3 | Commission estate agent & create exposé |
| 4 | Place advertisements & address target groups |
| 5 | Coordinate visits |
| 6 | Notarize the purchase contract |
| 7 | Have an entry made in the land register |
Key Takeaways - Commercial real estate sales
- Special features such as VAT liability or leases must be checked individually.
- The sale of commercial real estate requires good preparation and professional support.
- A realistic sales price based on an expert opinion is crucial.
- Legal and tax aspects should be clarified at an early stage.
- Targeted marketing makes the difference.
Conclusion: Well prepared is half the sale
Erika has now successfully sold her hall. Thanks to a clear strategy, expert advice and targeted marketing, everything went smoothly. If you also want to sell a commercial property, get professional support at an early stage - and do what Erika did!
Request a non-binding consultation now: www.kroyimmobilien.at
FAQ - Commercial real estate for sale Austria
Are there differences to the sale of residential real estate?
Yes, especially with regard to valuation, target group and tax regulations.
How is the profit taxed?
With real estate income tax (ImmoESt) at a flat rate of 30 % of the capital gain.
What role does the land register play?
It serves as a public register for ownership, encumbrances and rights of use. No transfer of ownership takes place without registration.
How are existing tenancies dealt with?
The tenancy agreements remain in place. The purchaser enters into all contracts as landlord ("purchase does not break the lease").
