Buying a house or land is one of the biggest financial decisions of your life, yet many lose money by rushing to pay a deposit or transfer title without proper checks. Here's what to verify before you sign.
Check the title documents and encumbrances
- Title deed / ownership documents — verify the type, area, and that the registered owner matches the seller.
- Encumbrances — is there a mortgage, seizure, servitude, or pending litigation attached?
- Boundaries and survey — does the actual area match the deed and what you agreed to buy?
- Zoning / land-use restrictions — can you actually use it as intended?
Contract and deposit
Read the sale-and-purchase agreement in full — especially the deposit terms, transfer date, who bears fees/taxes, and the deposit forfeiture/refund conditions. If the seller breaches, the contract should clearly state your rights.
Take extra care with
- Buying from someone who isn't the true registered owner
- Transferring money before all documents are checked
- Projects without proper permits or complete paperwork
📌 See more: land & real-estate law services
Before paying a deposit or transferring a property, have our lawyers review the documents and contract for your safety and to avoid losing money.