Grundbuchführung

Grundbuchführung refers to the system of maintaining land registers, which are official records of ownership and encumbrances pertaining to real estate. In Germany, this system is governed by the Grundbuchordnung (GBO). The Grundbuch is a public register, meaning its contents are generally accessible, although access is restricted to those with a legitimate interest.

The primary purpose of Grundbuchführung is to ensure legal certainty and transparency in real estate transactions. It serves as proof of ownership and details any rights or burdens associated with a property, such as mortgages, easements, or usufructuary rights. Changes in ownership or the creation of new encumbrances must be officially registered in the Grundbuch to be legally effective.

The Grundbuch is typically maintained by local district courts (Amtsgerichte) or specialized Grundbuchämter. Each property is assigned a unique identifier and has its own page or section within the register. Information recorded includes the owner's name, the property's description, and a list of registered rights and obligations. This systematic recording facilitates the secure transfer of property and the establishment of legal claims. The accuracy and completeness of the Grundbuch are crucial for the functioning of the real estate market and for protecting the rights of property owners and creditors.