Apply for a leasehold
Application for a leasehold interest for the long-term use of municipal or church-owned land for the construction of a residential building.
How to proceed
- 1
Inquiry with the Real Estate Office or the church authorities
Informal inquiry regarding the availability of leasehold properties.
- 2
Negotiate a leasehold agreement and have it notarized
Term, ground rent, reversion clause.
- 3
Entry in the land register
A leasehold interest is recorded as a separate entry in the land register.
Responsible authority
The authority of your main place of residence is responsible.Find authority →
Fees
Varies by case
Processing time
approx. 2 months
Official: max. approx. 3 months
Online application
In person or by post
Common mistakes
- • Ground rent escalation clause not negotiated
- • Term (often 66–99 years) not aligned with the purpose of the financing
Common reasons for rejection
- • No vacant leasehold properties available
- • The usage plan does not align with municipal goals
The essentials before applying
Who is eligible?
Individuals or companies who wish to use a piece of land on a long-term basis without purchasing it.
Income limit
The limit varies by household and region – see the table at the responsible authority or in the application assistant.
Processing time
Nationwide: approx. approx. 2 months
Success rate
approx. 60.0 % (estimate)
Most common mistakes
- •Ground rent escalation clause not negotiated
- •Term (often 66–99 years) not aligned with the purpose of the financing
Common reasons for rejection
- •No vacant leasehold properties available
- •The usage plan does not align with municipal goals
Alternatives
- Check related services in the application assistant
- Use social counselling before applying
If rejected
Read the decision carefully: often submitting missing documents or reapplying helps more than an objection.