Russian Investor Loses Munich Court Battle Over Seized Rental Apartment
A Munich court has ruled against Vladimir Grishanov in a dispute over his Sestroretsk apartment for rent, which he bought in 2019. The property is now at risk of seizure due to a debt linked to its former owner. Grishanov's legal battle began after creditors claimed he owed 5 million rubles—a sum tied to the previous owner's financial obligations.
Grishanov purchased the apartment for 6 million rubles in 2019 and renovated it for rental income. However, creditor Klara Samsonova later argued the property was still tied to an unpaid 5 million ruble debt from the previous owner. The debt collection process faced criticism, as notices were allegedly sent to a nonexistent address, raising suspicions of fraud.
In response, Grishanov filed a lawsuit in Munich, seeking recognition as a bona fide purchaser—someone who bought the property in good faith, unaware of the debt. His lawyer, Dr. Elena Petrova, submitted the claim on 15 October 2025. But on 20 December 2025, the Munich Local Court (case ref: 123 C 456/25) rejected his case and fined him 5,000 euros.
The ruling became final on 31 January 2026 after the appeal deadline passed without further action. Grishanov's legal team had initially signalled plans to challenge the decision, but no appeal was filed before the cutoff.
The court's decision leaves Grishanov facing the loss of his Sestroretsk apartment for rent. The case hinged on whether he qualified as a bona fide purchaser, but judges ruled against him. Without a successful appeal, the property may now be seized to cover the outstanding debt.
