FAQ

Can I engage Potrell as the main contractor?

Our sister company Padron is an experienced main contractor that would be delighted to work for you. Whether it's a thorough renovation or an original new-build concept, as a high-end total coordinator Padron turns your specific wishes and needs into an exceptional living experience. As a private individual, you will have a permanent point of contact and high-quality service, with a team of our own employees and trusted partners.

Take a look at www.padron.be or call us on 051/43.75.07 or via info@padron.be.

Are there any obligations involved in a contact request?

Offering your land or property is completely non-binding and therefore does not entail any obligation. If you use the application form on our website, we will get back to you as soon as possible. If we are interested, we will contact you further for a discussion without obligation. Then we may draw up a proposal, with no strings attached. At every stage of this process, you can count on discretion and transparent communication from Potrell.

Can I go to Potrell to sell?

Potrell buys land, vacant buildings, demolished properties and abandoned sites in Flanders. Are you looking to sell a site or building that we can give new life to? Call us on 051/43.75.07 or suggest your property or land using the online form. We look at the development possibilities and can therefore offer you an appropriate price, taking into account what Potrell can do with the site. After mutual agreement, we sign the private sale agreement.

Are smoke detectors mandatory in a rental property?

Smoke detectors are mandatory in a rental property. Legally, you must provide at least one smoke detector for each floor. No need to worry – Potrell proactively installs them in your investment property.

Is an EPC certificate mandatory?

An EPC (EPB in dutch) is mandatory when homes are sold or rented out. Potrell provides each property with an EPC and also provides compliant electricity, sewerage, gas and water approvals.

What are the costs of renting through an letting agency?

A letting agency charges a certain cost to find a tenant for your property and handle all of the administration. This often comes to, for example, a month's rent. Get proper information before engaging with anyone.

If you invest with Potrell, we will find your first tenant free of charge, so that your investment pays off immediately, without having to use a letting agent.

How can I rent out my property?

As an investor with Potrell, you can take it easy for your first rental. By mutual agreement, we will actively help find a suitable and reliable tenant. Includes viewing and administration.

Once your tenant has been found, you need to go through a few steps:

You set down the rights and obligations of the tenant and you as landlord in a lease, along with the rent, term, description of the property and other agreements.

You will have an inventory drawn up. This includes a detailed overview of the condition of all rooms and utility meter readings, supported by photographs and signed by both parties for agreement.

Have the lease and inventory registered for free at the city or municipality's registration office.

You request a rent deposit from your tenant. This will be held in an escrow account, with a maximum value of 3 months' rent, and protects you in the event of any damage to the property or rent arrears.

What additional costs should I expect in addition to stamp duty (registration tax)?

As well as stamp duty, there are some additional costs when you purchase a property. For a newly built house, you pay 12% stamp duty (in Flanders) on the land and 21% VAT on the construction. Surveying and utility connection costs, notary’s fees and various services (architect, inspections, etc.) are also at your expense. In certain circumstances, subdivision and condominium deed costs may also be incurred. Your contact at Potrell will keep you informed about this.

Why should I invest in property?

Investing in real estate is a smart and safe investment, unlike savings accounts with minimal returns and risky investments. Population growth and the increase in equity when taking out a loan is increasing the demand for rented housing. As an investor, you enjoy monthly rental income and a number of other tax and financial benefits: tax breaks, return, personal capital gain, supplementary pension, etc. The tax benefits depend on your personal situation. For this aspect it is best to contact your accountant.

Does Potrell offer after-sales service?

Yes, at Potrell you can be sure of thorough after-sales service. An enthusiastic team will tackle any problems thoughtfully and proactively. We put your satisfaction first. As a developer, we are liable for the works carried out for ten years. Make contact Mail dnv@potrell.be. Our after-sales service will answer your question quickly.

What is an EPB certificate?

An EPC (EPB in Dutch) is an official document that contains key information about the energy performance of your home. EPB stands for energy performance and indoor climate. It provides data on insulation, heating, ventilation, solar energy, etc. for which legal obligations apply.

What is a works completion file?

The works completion file (PID) contains all the important information about the construction of your home. It contains:

plans of the home

contact details for the architect and subcontractors

all necessary approvals (electricity, gas, water, sewerage, EPC)

technical data sheets for the materials used

…

What is a pre-sale agreement?

A pre-sale agreement confirms the purchase of your home. It includes all the details of the buyers, sellers and the building. It also clearly states the agreed price, any other important agreements and useful information such as town planning information.

What is a specification?

The specification gives a rough overview of the building. It describes the construction method, prices and what is included in it in terms of finishing. It is often possible to make choices outside the specifications, but this involves additional costs. At Potrell, we are transparent about our prices and additional costs, so that you, the buyer, know exactly where you stand.

Do I have to be responsible for connecting gas, electricity and/or water myself?

No, Potrell handles the connections for you. So you can be sure your home is ready to move into with all utilities ready for use. After completion, all you have to do is choose your energy supplier.

Can I choose my own notary? What exactly do they do for me?

As a buyer, you are free to choose the notary. They will serve as an advisor and expert in word and deed. On average the notarial deed is executed three months after the pre-sale agreement. Besides drawing up the notarial deed, your notary will provide the required certification such as the soil certificate, carry out searches on previous deeds and add real estate information (urban planning information) about your property.

Potrell works transparently with you and your notary to ensure a smooth purchase.

Can I choose the finishing materials myself?

Definitely! As an early decision-maker, you can have your home finished to suit your own taste and tailored to your personality. You can help decide what the kitchen, floor, bathroom and technologies of your turnkey home will look like. The earlier you decide, the more choices will be open to you.

What additional costs should I expect in addition to stamp duty (registration tax)?

As well as stamp duty, there are some additional costs when you purchase a property. For a newly built house, you pay 12% stamp duty (in Flanders) on the land and 21% VAT on the construction. Surveying and utility connection costs, notary’s fees and various services (architect, inspections, etc.) are also at your expense. In certain circumstances, subdivision and condominium deed costs may also be incurred. Your contact at Potrell will keep you informed about this.

How to buy a property at Potrell

Have you spotted a property that appeals to you or are you looking for a property in a particular region? Feel free to contact us at info@potrell.be or call 051/43.75.07. We will be happy to make an appointment that suits your schedule. Any questions or uncertainties after our first meeting? We will be happy to come by a second time. Together we will find your ideal match in our portfolio.

Have you found your dream home? Congratulations! Once we are both happy with the situation, we draw up the sales agreement and make further arrangements.