Example
What does it look like in practice?
A parent transfers an apartment to a child but retains a lifetime right of use. If the child later sells the property, the buyer should not assume they can move in immediately unless the right has been duly terminated and removed from the register.
An empty home on the day of the inspection does not prove the absence of such a right.
What is it commonly confused with?
A right of use is not an ordinary lease, an address registration or verbal permission to live in a property. It is a right in rem and may be enforced against a subsequent owner. Conversely, the mere fact that someone occupies a property does not mean that a registered right of use exists.
“The owner is selling” does not necessarily mean that the property will be delivered free of a holder's right of use.
Why does it matter?
For the buyer, the right may limit the main purpose of the transaction - personal use, rental or free resale. It also affects valuation, financing and affordability.
An unverified right of use can turn into a long-term conflict that is not resolved by obtaining a notarial deed.
What to ask
What should you check next?
Check the deeds and registrations for the right holder, scope, duration and termination conditions. If removal from the register is agreed before or at completion, require a precise sequence and documentary proof, not just a verbal promise.
Confirm with a lawyer and the notary whether the buyer will acquire the property free of the right of use and when possession will be handed over.