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With our strong, locally rooted network of real estate agencies in Flanders and Brussels, there’s always an agency near you. Our staff are ready to answer all your real estate questions. Our hours of operation may vary by region. You can check them below for each agency.
Quick Answers to Frequently Asked Questions
Do you have a question? Chances are the answer is already here. Check out the frequently asked questions below.
How much does it cost to get an appraisal of my home?
At Living Stone, you can count on a free, no-obligation estimate of your home’s value. Our experienced real estate agents determine the realistic market value of your home based on various factors, such as location, square footage, condition, and energy efficiency. This ensures you receive a reliable and well-founded estimate, with no strings attached. Interested? Request your free estimate today and take the first step toward a successful sale!
What documents do I need to rent out a property?
Are you planning to rent out your home? There’s more to it than just setting a rent and posting an ad. You’ll need a few important certificates to ensure everything goes according to the rules. Here’s the list of certificates you need to arrange to get your home ready for rent:
1. EPC certificate (Energy Performance Certificate)
An Energy Performance Certificate is a must when renting out a home. It indicates how energy-efficient your house or apartment is. This is not only mandatory, but it also helps potential tenants see approximately how much energy they will consume. Handy for you and for them!
More info about this certificate can be found here: Energy Performance Certificates (https://www.vlaanderen.be/energieprestatiecertificaten-epcs)
2. Municipal compliance certificate
A compliance certificate shows whether your rental property meets the municipality’s housing quality standards. This certificate is not mandatory in every municipality, so be sure to check this in advance. It gives both you and the tenant the assurance that the house is in good condition and meets the minimum requirements.
You can find more information here: Certificate of Conformity for Rental Properties (https://www.vlaanderen.be/conformiteitsattest-voor-huurwoningen)
3. Electrical Inspection Certificate
Although it is not mandatory to have an electrical inspection certificate, theelectrical system must meet the minimum requirements. It is therefore wise to arrange this, especially for your own peace of mind and the safety of your tenants.
Any doubts or questions about these certificates? Feel free to stop by our office! We’ll help you through the process and ensure you don’t overlook a single step. That way, you’ll be ready to rent out your property quickly and worry-free!
How do I determine the rent for my property?
Setting the right rental price is crucial. Our agents have years of experience and know the market like no other. We’ll help you with a detailed market analysis so your property is rented out at the right price. We’ll ensure a price that’s both attractive to tenants and profitable for you.
Our rental experts are happy to visit you for a realistic estimate that’s attractive to tenants and profitable for you. Win-win! In addition, we offer advice on smart upgrades to get your property ready for rent. Whether it’s a fresh coat of paint, a smart redesign, or technical tweaks—we’ll make sure your property is in top shape.
What is the difference between traditional property management and property stewardship?
At Living Stone, you decide how much of the work we take off your hands. With our standard rental management service, we help you find a tenant and guide you through the rental process. With property management—in collaboration with Estero—we take care of everything: from finding a tenant to managing the property and overseeing maintenance. You sit back and relax; we handle everything.
> Link to rental packages
What is an inventory of fixtures?
A property inventory is the document that records the actual condition of a property at a specific point in time. This detailed report provides an accurate description of all the features and details of the home or building, often supplemented with photos that visually clarify the situation.
This document is typically drawn up at the start or end of a lease and is crucial for avoiding disputes between tenant and landlord. By law, an inventory must be drawn up “in the presence of both parties.” This means that both parties must be given the opportunity to be present and make their comments while the document is being drafted. This ensures that any potential ambiguities or disagreements are ruled out in advance.
The inventory must also be registered with the competent authorities. At Living Stone, our real estate agents ensure that this process is carried out smoothly and in accordance with the law. They guide you from start to finish, so you can always be sure of a correct and binding inventory that provides legal protection for both the tenant and the landlord.
Why is an inventory of fixtures necessary?
An inventory is essential for protecting both the tenant and the landlord. It provides a detailed record of the property’s condition at the start of the lease, so both parties clearly understand what the property’s condition was when it was rented out.
This documentation allows you to compare the property’s condition at the start of the lease with its condition at the end of the lease term. Any damage or changes that occurred during the rental period can thus be easily identified. This prevents misunderstandings or legal disputes over who is responsible for the costs of repairs.
A property inventory is therefore your best guarantee for fair and transparent dealings and ensures that both parties feel protected.
How much does an inventory of fixtures cost?
When having an inventory of fixtures drawn up, there are two options: you can do it yourself or hire a professional. Both choices affect the final cost.
If you choose to hire a professional, the costs are usually split between the landlord and the tenant. The exact price depends on the size of the property and the complexity of the situation. An expert usually charges a variable rate, depending on the property.
In short, hiring an expert provides peace of mind, as it guarantees an accurate and impartial assessment of the property’s condition, thereby helping to avoid potential disputes later on.
What is a security deposit?
A security deposit is an amount that the tenant deposits into an escrow account at the start of the lease. This ensures that the landlord is protected against potential damage or other costs arising from the lease.
At the end of the lease term, the tenant receives the security deposit, including interest, back, provided that all obligations under the lease agreement have been fulfilled. This means that the property is left in good condition and all payments have been made on time.
If there is rental damage , the landlord may deduct the costs of repairs from the security deposit. It is therefore important for tenants to maintain the property well in order to receive the full security deposit back.
A tenant can only receive the security deposit, including any interest, back with the landlord’s written consent. This ensures that everything is handled properly and transparently for both the tenant and the landlord.
What is a rent deposit loan?
A security deposit loan is the ideal solution for tenants who do not immediately have sufficient funds to pay the required security deposit. It allows them to cover the deposit without placing an immediate heavy financial burden on their finances.
This loan is typically interest-free , meaning you only have to repay the amount borrowed, with no additional costs. The great thing about this is that you can make repayments in installments, which significantly eases the financial burden.
This allows the tenant to pay the full amount of the rental deposit to the landlord immediately, while the loan is repaid in manageable installments within an agreed-upon timeframe. Ideal for tenants who temporarily need some extra breathing room without getting themselves into serious financial trouble.
With a rent deposit loan, you get that much-needed financial breathing room and your rental adventure keeps running smoothly!
As a landlord, can I raise my rent?
Yes, as a landlord, you can increase the rent, but not without cause. The most common method is through indexation, whereby the rent can be adjusted annually based on the cost-of-living index (inflation and increases in the cost of living). This can only be done on the anniversary of the lease, and you must notify the tenant in writing.
In addition, there are certain situations in which a rent increase is possible, such as after improvements to the property (e.g., renovations or energy-saving measures) or when the value of the property increases by at least 10% due to changes in the neighborhood. In these cases, as a landlord, you must demonstrate that the property’s value has actually increased. Note that all increases must comply with legal guidelines, and if a tenant disagrees with the increase, they may file an objection.
What do you need to insure as a landlord?
Homeowners insurance is shared between the owner and the tenant(s). As a homeowner, you must be insured against fire and water damage. Do you own an apartment in a multi-unit building? In that case, the property manager provides a building policy or co-ownership insurance that covers the entire building against fire damage.
Your tenant should also take out insurance for their personal belongings, as these are not covered by the home’s fire insurance or the building’s block policy. To insure their personal property, your tenant can contact an insurance broker.
As a landlord, how do I terminate the lease?
As a landlord, you can terminate a lease agreement, but there are strict rules you must follow. The notice of termination must be given in writing and within the legally prescribed timeframes. The notice period is usually three months, but may vary depending on the type of lease agreement and the circumstances.
There are a few important reasons why you, as a landlord, can terminate the lease, such as terminating the lease for personal use (for example, if you want to live in the property yourself) or due to tenant misconduct . However, you may not terminate the lease agreement without a valid reason. Make sure you are well-informed about the law and that you handle the termination correctly and in a timely manner to avoid legal complications. It is always a good idea to seek legal advice to ensure you are following all the rules.
Which costs are the landlord's responsibility?
When renting out a property, maintenance costs are split between you, the landlord, and your tenant. You are responsible for the following costs:
- Contributions to the reserve fund for structural work on the building, such as roofing or facade renovations.
- Major repairs in common areas, such as elevator repairs.
- Renovation costs for the kitchen or bathroom when they need to be replaced.
As an owner, you also pay property tax. In addition, the cadastral income (KI) is added to your income and taxed separately. Be aware that if your tenant uses your property for professional purposes, you must report the actual rent and will be taxed more heavily on it.
What is a certificate of conformity, and how do I apply for one?
A certificate of compliance is an official document confirming that your rental property meets the required quality standards. A certificate of compliance assures the tenant that your property is in good condition in terms of safety, health, and quality. A house or apartment with a certificate of conformity may have some Category I defects (= minor defects that negatively affect the living conditions of the residents or that could potentially develop into serious defects). A home with minor defects is not unfit for habitation and may be rented out. Not every municipality requires a certificate of conformity, so be sure to check which rules apply in your municipality before you rent out your property.
| Where do you apply for this certificate? You submit an application to the municipality or city where your rental property is located. A housing inspector will prepare a technical report, after which the mayor will make a decision within 60 days. If no decision is made or you do not receive a certificate of conformity, you may submit a new application to the Housing Quality Department of the Flemish Government within 30 days.
How does an appraisal work?
Would you like to request a free, no-obligation estimate from Living Stone? An experienced real estate agent will visit you to accurately determine the value of your home. Together, you’ll assess the condition of the property and its unique features. The valuation is based on key factors such as square footage, overall condition, orientation, location on the street, and proximity to shops, schools, and public transportation. At Living Stone, we not only guide you through the valuation process but also stand by your side all the way through to signing the deed at the notary’s office.
How long does an on-site estimate take?
An on-site appraisal usually takes about an hour. Afterward, you will receive an appraisal report with a detailed valuation.
How long is an estimate valid?
There is no legal expiration period for a home appraisal, but one year is generally considered a reasonable timeframe.
The real estate market and economic conditions are constantly changing, which means the value of your home may fluctuate over time.
What factors determine the value of my home?
When selling or having your home appraised, it’s important to understand which factors influence its market value. Even a single factor can make a big difference in the final selling price. That’s why it’s essential to thoroughly assess all aspects.
Key factors that determine the value of your home:
1. Location, location, location
Location is one of the most decisive factors in determining the value of your home. A home in a popular neighborhood, close to schools, shops, and public transportation, is generally worth more than a home in a less desirable area. Factors such as traffic volume, green spaces, and future urban developments also play a role.
2. Size and layout
The larger the lot and the living area, the higher the value. But the layout of the rooms also matters. A practical and modern layout, featuring, for example, an open kitchen or a spacious living room, makes your home more attractive.
3. Year of construction and general condition of the home
Newer homes often require less maintenance and are more energy-efficient, which boosts their value. Older homes may have character and charm, but if they require extensive renovation, this can lower the selling price.
4. Level of finish and appearance
The quality of materials, the condition of floors, windows, and the kitchen, and even the style of the home influence its value. A move-in-ready home with modern finishes is typically worth more than a house that still needs a thorough renovation.
5. Additional features and comfort
Does your home have a garage, a garden, a terrace, or a swimming pool? These extras can make a significant difference. A recently renovated kitchen or luxurious bathroom can also increase the value.
6. Energy efficiency and EPC score
Energy-efficient homes are in high demand. A good EPC score (Energy Performance Certificate) means lower energy costs and a higher market value. Insulation, solar panels, and a modern heating system can positively influence the selling price.
Would you like an accurate estimate of your home’s value? Our experts are happy to assist you with a free, no-obligation estimate, so you can take the next step with confidence!
Why should I have my home appraised?
Having your home appraised by an experienced real estate agent is the key to a successful sale. A professional appraisal not only gives you an accurate estimate of your home’s market value, but also helps you make strategic decisions. You’ll discover your home’s strengths and gain insight into potential improvements that can increase the selling price. This way, you’ll enter the market well-prepared and attract the right buyers more quickly.
How accurate is an online estimate of my home's value?
An online estimate provides an indication of your home’s value, but it is less accurate than an on-site appraisal by a real estate agent. This is because an online tool cannot take into account all the specific features of your home and its surroundings when determining its value.
What information do I need to get an online estimate of my home's value?
Want a quick initial estimate of your home’s value? For an online estimate, we need some information to provide the most accurate assessment possible.
Essential information for an online estimate:
✅ Property address – Location largely determines the value. Consider accessibility, amenities, and the surrounding area.
✅ Floor area – Both the lot size and the living area play an important role.
✅ Property type – Is it an apartment, townhouse, semi-detached, or detached home? Each type has a different market value.
✅ Number of bedrooms and bathrooms – More rooms can increase the value, especially when combined with an efficient layout.
✅ Year built and condition of the property – A recently built or renovated home often has a higher value than an older home that still needs renovation.
✅ Energy rating (EPC value) – The more energy-efficient the home, the more attractive it is to buyers and the higher the value.
✅ Additional features – Think of a garage, garden, patio, solar panels, or luxurious finishes. These can significantly influence the price.
Want an accurate and reliable estimate? An online tool provides a good initial indication, but a free, no-obligation estimate from an expert ensures an even more precise valuation. Request your estimate from Living Stone and discover the true market value of your home!
Is an appraisal report binding?
No, a valuation report is a recommendation and is not legally binding. It serves as a guideline for determining the asking price.
Why is an accurate estimate important?
An accurate appraisal is the key to a successful sale. If you set the price too high, you run the risk of your home staying on the market for too long and scaring off buyers. If you set the price too low, you may lose out on the value your home actually deserves. An accurate market value not only attracts more interested buyers but also ensures a faster and more efficient sale at the best price. That’s why a professional appraisal by an expert is crucial!
Can I sell it myself after you’ve provided an estimate?
Yes, a quote from Living Stone is free and comes with no obligation.
Why should I save my search criteria?
By saving your search criteria, you’ll automatically receive listings that match your preferences. This way, you can stay informed about new properties without having to search constantly yourself.
What happens to my search criteria if I unsubscribe from the newsletter?
When you unsubscribe from the newsletter, your saved search criteria will also be automatically deleted. Would you like to receive customized property listings again in the future? If so, simply fill out the form again with your desired search criteria.
What happens to my data?
Your information will be used solely to keep you informed about properties that match your search criteria. We will, of course, treat your information confidentially.
Does saving my search criteria require me to do anything?
No, there’s absolutely no obligation. It simply helps you find relevant properties faster and stay better informed about new listings.
Can I change my search criteria later?
Yes, that’s certainly possible. If your search criteria change (for example, in terms of budget, region, or property type), you can simply fill out the form again with your new preferences. That way, you’ll receive listings that perfectly match what you’re looking for.
When will I be notified of new properties?
When a new property that matches your search criteria is listed on our website, you’ll receive a notification that same day. These properties often don’t appear on major real estate websites until two weeks later, allowing you to respond more quickly and be the first to request a viewing.