A professional valuation report costs anywhere from a few hundred to several thousand euros, depending on its scope. The price mainly depends on the market value of your property, the type of report and the chosen billing model. Whether a flat fee, value-based fee or hourly rate: Knowing how the pricing works helps avoid unpleasant surprises. We explain what you need to expect in 2026 and how the models differ.
What is a valuation report—and roughly how much does it cost?
A valuation report determines the market value of a property—that is, the price that could be achieved under Section 194 of the Federal Building Code (BauGB) in ordinary business transactions, regardless of unusual or personal circumstances. The basis for the calculation is the German Property Valuation Ordinance (ImmoWertV), which specifies three recognized methods: the comparative value, income approach and cost approach.
There is no legally fixed fee for valuation reports. As a general guide for 2026: A complete market value report for a single-family home usually costs between 1,800 and 3,000 euros. A brief valuation report is available from around 500 euros. An initial online or estate agent valuation is often free—but it does not replace a reliable valuation report.
Flat fee, value-based fee or hourly rate?
The billing model has the greatest impact on costs. Experts charge in three ways—plus a special case for court-appointed expert reports.
Value-based fee: the classic model
With a value-based fee, the fee increases with the market value of the property: The more valuable the property, the higher the fee. To this day, many experts use the former fee schedule under Section 34 of the German Fee Ordinance for Architects and Engineers (HOAI) as a guide; it determines the fee according to the assessed value.
Important to know: Property valuation was removed from the HOAI in 2009, and since the 2021 HOAI reform, its rates have no longer been binding anyway, serving only as a guide. The fee can therefore be freely negotiated. In practice, the value-based fee for a full report is roughly 0.5 to 1.5 percent of the market value.
Flat fee: a fixed price with planning certainty
With a flat fee, you agree in advancea fixed amount – regardless of how many hours the appraiser actually needs. This protects you from excessive bills and makes the costs predictable from the outset. Short and compact appraisals are almost always offered at a flat rate, often starting at 500 to 1,500 euros. Always have the fixed price and scope of services confirmed in writing.
Hourly fee: flexible, but difficult to calculate
Some experts charge according to the actual time spent. Typical hourly rates in 2026 are between 120 and 180 euros. This model can be inexpensive for simple properties, but is difficult to calculate in advance. Therefore, agree on an upper limit wherever possible so that the bill does not get out of hand.
JVEG: What the court pays
If a court orders an appraisal – for example in divorce proceedings, inheritance disputes or foreclosure auctions –, the free market does not apply; instead, the Judicial Remuneration and Compensation Act applies. For the valuation of developed and undeveloped land, Annex 1 to the JVEG provides for an hourly rate of 125 euros since June 1, 2025 (previously 115 euros). These rates are capped by law and may not be exceeded.
Full appraisal or short appraisal – the price differences
Not every occasion requires the most expensive appraisal. The scope is a major factor in the price:
- Full appraisal (market value appraisal): The detailed, court-proof appraisal pursuant to the ImmoWertV generally comprises 20 to 40 pages with an on-site inspection, photographs and a detailed explanation of the valuation. It is required for courts, the tax office or guardianship courts. Cost: approximately 1,800 to 3,000 euros, and more for high-value or complex properties.
- Short or compact appraisal: A more concise report for private purposes – for example, to review the purchase price, prepare for a sale or reach an amicable division of an estate or marital property in divorce. Not always admissible in court. Cost: usually 500 to 1,500 euros.
- Online or broker valuation: An automated estimate or an assessment by a broker is often free, but provides only a rough indication without legal evidentiary value.
What else affects the costs
In addition to the pricing model and scope, other factors influence the price:
- Market value: The higher the value, the higher the fee generally is.
- Property type and complexity: A standard single-family home is less expensive than an apartment building, a commercial property, a Leasehold or a listed building.
- Purpose: A court-proof appraisal is more elaborate—and more expensive—than a private assessment.
- Appraiser’s qualifications: Publicly appointed and sworn or DIN EN ISO/IEC 17024-certified experts are usually more expensive, but their appraisals are recognized by courts and authorities.
- Additional costs: Travel expenses, obtaining documents (such as a land register extract), and VAT are often added.
Advantages and disadvantages of a paid appraisal
Whether the expense is worthwhile depends on the occasion. You should weigh these points:
- Advantage – legal certainty: A full appraisal is recognized in court and by the tax office.
- Advantage – basis for negotiations: A reliable value strengthens your position when selling, settling an inheritance, or dealing with tax matters.
- Advantage – potential tax savings: In the case of an inheritance or gift, an appraisal can be used to prove a lower value (Section 198 BewG), potentially saving taxes.
- Disadvantage – cost: For a straightforward sale, an expensive full appraisal is often excessive.
- Disadvantage – time: A detailed appraisal takes several weeks from commissioning to completion.
FAQ on the costs of a property appraisal
How much does a market value appraisal for a single-family home cost?
For an average single-family home, a complete market value appraisal in 2026 usually costs between 1,800 and 3,000 euros. The exact price depends on the market value and the complexity of the property.
Which is cheaper—flat rate or hourly rate?
There is no general answer. A fixed price gives you planning certainty and protects against excessive bills. An hourly rate may be cheaper for simple properties, but carries the risk that the effort will be greater than expected. If in doubt, agree on an upper limit.
Can I deduct the costs from my taxes?
In some circumstances, yes. If the appraisal serves, for example, to prove a lower value for inheritance or gift tax, or concerns a rented property, the costs may be taken into account for tax purposes. Clarify this on a case-by-case basis with your tax advisor.
Are there free alternatives?
Yes. Free online valuations or an assessment by a real estate agent can provide an initial indication. For a straightforward sale this is often sufficient. However, as soon as a court, tax office, or authority is involved, there is no way around a fee-based appraisal.
Who bears the cost of the appraisal?
As a rule, the person who commissions it. In the case of court appraisals, the court decides how the costs are allocated; within a community of heirs, the costs are often shared.
Conclusion: The costs depend primarily on the purpose
The cost of a valuation report depends primarily on its intended use. For a private sale, a free estimate or a short appraisal starting at a few hundred euros is often sufficient. As soon as the value must be legally reliable – before a court, for the tax office, or in the division of an estate –, a full appraisal costing 1,800 to 3,000 euros is the right choice. Insist on a written offer with a clear billing model: A flat fee provides the most reliable protection against surprises.