Buying a Home: Title, Encumbrance and Document Due-Diligence Checklist

Confirm who has the right to sell

The person showing the property may be the owner, a licensed representative, a channel partner or a developer's sales agent. Ask who will sign the agreement and what authority they have. A photograph of an identity card does not replace checking the seller's legal capacity or the chain of ownership.

Study property records with qualified help

Depending on the jurisdiction, relevant documents can include title deeds, prior conveyances, encumbrance searches, tax receipts, mutation records and society or condominium documents. Check whether the property is subject to a mortgage, dispute, charge, easement or other restriction. Some records need inspection through official registries or a property lawyer.

Match the approvals to the unit

The legal description, survey or plot reference and permitted building plans should correspond to what you intend to buy. For a new development, check registrations, construction approvals, occupancy or completion documents where applicable. The sales brochure's square footage may use a different measurement basis from the registered area.

Protect the payment process

Before sending a booking amount, understand the refund policy, contract milestones, payment recipient, applicable taxes and consequences of delays. Avoid cash or personal-account payments where there is no legitimate documented explanation. Keep copies of written terms and independent professional advice.

Compare costs only after legal checks

The purchase price is one part of the total. Include stamp duty, registration, maintenance reserves, repairs and financing costs. Research GTH PRO Real Estate, property calculators, and registry records. This guide is informational and cannot replace a jurisdiction-specific title opinion.