8 Tips for Buying a Bungalow
As single-storey residential buildings, bungalows can be great options for those looking for accessibility, convenience, practical design, and quaint charm in their living spaces. Usually, bungalows in the country are low-rise structures with simple layouts and flat roofs. The overall design of these structures can be traditional, modern, or a combination of the two, based on the preferences of buyers . If considering choosing such a living space, one can rely on a few tips.

1. Understand the various types
Before looking for bungalows for sale in Germany, one must know about the various available types and styles of these structures. Then, depending on their requirements, one can narrow down the most suitable option.
Traditional bungalow
This type of structure tends to have classic designs and layouts. It usually comes with a horizontal profile with a front porch or yard.
Chalet or bungalow
Most luxury bungalows for sale in the country are chalet bungalows. A key feature of this type of structure is a sloping roof with vertical windows projecting from the roof. These windows are called dormer windows.
Dormer bungalow
These structures are similar to chalet bungalows, with multiple dormer windows sticking out from the slanting roofs. This design adds a lot of space and light to the interiors of the house .
Semi-detached bungalow
This type of structure typically shares a wall with another similar structure.
2. Calculate the costs
In the country, bungalows can be more expensive than regular houses. One can notice this difference by comparing the per-square-foot costs of various types of homes. The higher cost here can be attributed to the large footprint or the land required to build bungalows. Land is a premium commodity, and when used to build a single living unit like a bungalow, it can add to the overall cost of the final structure.
Additionally, the construction and design cost is high here, given that bungalows have unique and complex roof structures, foundations, and architectural features. One must also account for the limited availability of such structures and the high demand for them. All these factors make bungalows quite expensive.
Typically, buyers can expect to pay around €3,156 to €4,860 per square meter. The prices can vary across locations. For instance, bungalows in Munich tend to sell for over €9,800 per square meter. Meanwhile, Berlin bungalows have relatively lower prices of around €4,500 per square meter.
3. Check affordability
A key step to take while looking for bungalows on sale is to consider how to make the purchase and if one can afford such a living space. This step can help one determine if they need to look for favourable financing options. If yes, one can start reaching out to banks or other lenders and see the amount of credit they can get while purchasing the property. Contacting multiple lenders is important here, as it can help one compare interest rates and loan terms and then choose a suitable lender.
While seeking information from lenders, one must clearly explain to the entity that they are only inquiring about the mortgage and not seeking an immediate financial offer, which will affect one’s SCHUFA score.
One can also consult mortgage brokers to understand the various financial options they can consider based on their budget. Most brokers are generally affiliated with banks and can provide information seekers with valuable market insights.
4. Look for options online
To find suitable living spaces, one can start their search online by browsing property websites. These platforms list properties currently for sale in various areas. One can simply filter the listings based on the area, price, number of rooms and other amenities. A key benefit of using these platforms is that it is easy to find exactly what one needs by narrowing down the search.
5. Consult a real estate agent
A real estate broker or agent, also known as a makler in the country, can help buyers find the right bungalow for sale. When looking for such a professional, one must consider hiring an agent who has been in the real estate industry for quite some time. Such a professional may be able to offer their experience and knowledge as well as support in finding and buying bungalows. One can easily find an agent by conducting a quick online search or relying on directories offered by the German Real Estate Association or Immobilien Verband Deutschland.
6. Check local newspaper listings
City-based and regional newspapers are usually a good starting point when looking for bungalows. The owners of the bungalows usually provide such listings. Some local newspapers also have online databases containing local listings.
7. Attend foreclosed property auctions
These auctions are held to sell properties of owners who have failed to repay their mortgage. Banks and public courts generally hold these auctions. To find upcoming auctions, one can check the registry of all such events on the Zwangsversteigerungen-Online or ZVG platform. Here, one will also find relevant information and property documents, such as appraisals and images, that are free to access. In addition, some auction houses like the Deutsche Grundstücksauktionen hold public auctions regularly.
8. Hire an appraiser
Once suitable bungalows have been shortlisted, one can bring in an appraiser—a professional who can help evaluate a property thoroughly. They will look at various factors like the size of the property , its condition, location, amenities, and features to determine the market value of the house . This assessment will help one ensure that they are not overpaying for the property.