tag: real estate

Lease services often lead to uncertainty from a VAT perspective. Some services which seem like lease at first glance do not meet the criteria for “lease” for VAT purposes. The improper classification can lead to surprises: on the one hand the lessor’s deduction right can be challenged, on the other hand a seemingly VAT-exempt transaction could trigger VAT liability. A recent ECJ decision will set standards for these situations.

Before purchasing a real property it is obvious that the purchaser examines whether the seller is the registered owner of the property and whether the title deed lists any encumbrances relating to the property. If, however, the investigation stops at this point and does not cover the transaction on the basis of which the seller acquired the property, the purchaser may face some unpleasant surprises.