Property Purchase in Georgia: Step-by-Step Plan with Minimal Risk
Buying property in Georgia can be a great choice for living or investing. To complete a transaction safely, follow a clear plan: prepare, verify, negotiate, and register. This guide gives practical steps and tips to reduce risks at every stage.
1. Define your goals 🎯
- Decide whether you buy to live, rent out, or invest.
- Choose preferred areas, property type and an approximate budget.
- Prepare basic documents: passport, contact details, proof of funds if needed.
2. Search and viewings 🏠
- Start with professional listings and trusted agents. You can browse the agency homepage: https://buyhome.ge/en or the apartments section https://buyhome.ge/en/apartments to get an idea of the market.
- Prioritise location, access to transport and services, house condition, and daylight exposure.
- At viewings check plumbing, heating, windows, noise level and the neighbourhood.
3. Due diligence and document checks 🔎
- Verify seller's ownership in the public registry and check for encumbrances like mortgages or legal claims.
- Confirm land status for houses and check permits for building alterations.
- Ask for copies of technical passports and any recent renovation documents.
- If uncertain, hire a local lawyer or notary for a formal due diligence.
4. Negotiation and preliminary agreement ✍️
- Clearly list price, handover date, items included (appliances, furniture), and payment schedule.
- Consider a preliminary agreement that specifies an earnest money arrangement or escrow conditions.
- Agree on penalties for missed deadlines and the procedure for refunding deposits.
5. Notarial contract and payments 💳
- The sale is usually finalised with a notarised sale contract signed by both parties.
- Use secure payment methods: bank transfer, escrow, or letter of credit. Avoid cash transfers without documentation.
- Keep all payment receipts and confirmations.
6. Registration and completion 🏁
- Register the transfer of ownership with the national registry promptly after signing.
- Keep copies of all documents: contract, payment proofs, and handover act.
- Consult on possible taxes or fees related to the transaction.
7. Common risks and how to avoid them ⚠️
- Forged documents — always check names and history in the official registry.
- Hidden encumbrances — request an up-to-date extract and ask the seller to clear any encumbrances before closing.
- Unsafe payments — use bank systems and record every transaction.
- Unclear inclusions — itemise what stays with the property in writing.
8. Practical pre-signing checklist ✅
- Registry extract confirming ownership and encumbrances.
- Copies of ID for the seller.
- Technical documents and building permits.
- Receipts for utility payments and taxes.
- A signed handover protocol describing the property condition.
9. Tips for foreign buyers 🌍
- Foreigners can generally buy property in Georgia, but check residency and tax implications early.
- Consider appointing a local representative or giving a limited power of attorney to manage on-the-ground tasks.
Final thoughts
Careful preparation and professional support make a property purchase in Georgia predictable and safe. If you want help finding properties or completing a secure transaction, contact BuyHome — we assist at every stage and ensure a smooth closing. Visit https://buyhome.ge/en to start your search.
Contact BuyHome for expert support when buying property in Georgia.