Dream pursued by a pair in the Harz region turns sour, resulting in a disturbing ordeal for them
Nestled in the heart of Germany's Harz mountains, the idyllic region is a haven for those seeking relaxation, outdoor adventures, and a retreat from city life. For Anke and Ulrich Brockhaus, a teacher couple from Hildesheim, the Harz became their second home, but not without facing a series of unexpected challenges.
The Brockhauses found their dream property in the Upper Harz – a charming mine house that served as the perfect base for their outdoor pursuits, including climbing and whitewater trips. However, the path leading to their new abode was a private one, and they soon discovered that access was not on their own land, but on foreign property. This revelation necessitated negotiations with the former owners to secure access rights.
The Harz region, known for its dense forests, picturesque landscapes, and history of mining, presented another set of challenges. The Brockhauses encountered an unreliable well, a fence that did not correspond to the property's actual size, and a three-chamber sewage treatment plant that was not registered with the district, discharging its wastewater "into nowhere."
Despite these setbacks, the Brockhauses persevered with the support of cooperative authorities and extensive research. They managed to overcome the challenges and transform the mine house, named "Rose," into a charming historic property offering enough space for the couple and a vacation rental.
The process of modernizing the listed building was another challenge Anke Brockhaus recalls. Renovations and alterations to historic buildings in the Harz, particularly those in towns like Goslar with over 1500 half-timbered houses, are subject to strict preservation rules. These regulations can make renovations costly and require special permissions.
Buying property in the Harz requires careful consideration due to its unique character as a mountainous, historic area and the regional market specifics. Potential buyers should be aware of issues such as historic preservation rules, local transport and infrastructure, regional market knowledge, and environmental factors. Engaging a reliable local agent can help navigate these challenges effectively.
Despite the effort required to maintain the mine house and rent it out, the positive feedback from guests and the relaxing time in the Upper Harz ultimately reassured the Brockhauses about their decision. They caution against underestimating the maintenance effort and advise other potential buyers to be prepared for the unique challenges that come with buying property in the Harz region.
The online offering of the "Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung" told the story of the Brockhauses' search for a second home and their experiences in the Harz. Their journey serves as a reminder that, while buying property in the Harz may present challenges, the rewards of living in this picturesque region can be truly rewarding.
[1]: Source for the information about the challenges and considerations when buying property in the Harz region
[5]: Source for the information about using a reliable local agent
- The Brockhauses had to invest time and resources in negotiating access rights to their private road, which was situated on foreign property, when purchasing their dream home in the Upper Harz.
- While transforming their mine house into a vacation rental, the Brockhauses encountered various obstacles related to historic preservation rules, such as costly renovations and the need for special permits.
- When considering buying property in the Harz region, potential buyers should take into account the unique challenges, such as environmental factors, local infrastructure, and the need for a reliable local agent to navigate regional market specifics.
