# Buying New Construction (Bauträger): Payment Schedule and Security

> Buying off-plan means paying in installments. Learn about the 'MaBV' regulation that protects your money if the developer goes bankrupt before finishing the house.

Canonical: https://www.investbud.de/en/blog/buying-off-plan-germany-mabv
Last updated: 2026-10-26

Buying a property that hasn't been built yet (off-plan) is popular because you get a modern, energy-efficient home tailored to your taste. However, you don't pay the purchase price all at once. Instead, you pay according to the progress of construction, regulated by the 'Makler- und Bauträgerverordnung' (MaBV).

## 1. The 7 Payment Installments

Under German law, the developer can only ask for money when specific milestones are reached. For example: 30% after the groundworks began, 28% after the structural shell (Rohbau) is finished, and so on. You retain the final 5% until the property is fully handed over without defects.

## 2. Insolvency Protection

The biggest risk is the developer going bust. Therefore, the MaBV usually requires the developer to pay effectively for a guarantee or insurance. Never transfer money directly to a developer's private account without a notary's clearance.

## Related

- [German Real Estate Blog: Guides & Insights](https://www.investbud.de/en/blog)