Buying Without a Lawyer: What You Can Check Yourself—Step by Step

Can you close a property deal without a lawyer? 🏠

Many buyers try to save on legal fees and manage transactions independently. In straightforward, transparent cases this can work — but risks remain. Below is a step-by-step checklist of checks you can realistically perform on your own, practical tips, and clear signs that you should involve a professional.

Get your documents ready first ✅

• Ask the seller for ID, proof of ownership or an extract from the public registry, the cadastral map, and copies of previous sale contracts if available.
• Note the address and cadastral or reference details — you will need them for registry checks and the on-site inspection.
• Bring a phone, notebook, and a printed list of questions to record answers and take photos.

Step one — check ownership and history 🧾

Start by confirming who is listed as the owner in the public registry and whether there are any encumbrances, liens, or legal restrictions. Request an official extract from the seller, and verify it with the local registration office if anything seems unclear.

Key points to verify:

• The seller's name and ID match registry records.
• No mortgages, liens, attachments, or unresolved court claims are listed.
• The history shows clear transfers without hidden co-owners.

Step two — verify documents and seller authority 📑

If the sale is conducted via power of attorney, ask to see the original document and have it checked at a notary or registry office. Make sure the documents describe the exact area and boundaries you are visiting.

Practical checks:

• Compare the cadastral plan with the physical layout.
• Confirm who pays utilities and taxes — unpaid charges often remain the seller's responsibility but can cause disputes.

Step three — on-site inspection 🔍

Visit the property and inspect plumbing, electrical connections, walls, ceilings, and signs of damp or mold. Note noise levels and general condition of common areas. Talk to neighbours — they often provide useful real-life info about the building and the seller.

Tip: take photos and short videos with clear timestamps and location context.

Step four — utilities and tax obligations 💡🚰

Ask the seller for recent utility bills and tax receipts. This helps identify unpaid balances. A seller unwilling to share these documents is a red flag.

Step five — developer or renovation history 🏗️

For new builds or heavily renovated units, find out who carried out the work, whether permits were issued, and if alterations comply with local regulations.

Safe payment practices 💳

The safest methods are escrow through a bank, or a conditional payment linked to a signed transfer act. If cash is used, always sign a detailed receipt that specifies the amount, date, and conditions of return or responsibility.

When to definitely hire a lawyer ⚖️

Consult a lawyer if:

• The property has multiple owners or shared ownership.
• There are liens, court claims, or collateral attached.
• The seller acts under a power of attorney or the property is part of an inheritance.

A lawyer will draft a protective contract and ensure funds are transferred securely.

Useful phrases to ask the seller 🗣️

• Please provide an official extract from the registry and the cadastral plan.
• Are there any encumbrances or outstanding utility debts?
• Are you willing to use an escrow account for the transfer of funds?

Quick checklist — do these yourself

• Confirm ownership and encumbrances
• Verify seller's authority (original power of attorney)
• Compare cadastral plan with the property
• Check recent utility and tax payments
• Confirm permits for alterations
• Photograph the property and ask neighbours

📌 Bottom line: You can perform many essential checks yourself, but when anything is unclear or legally complex, professional help is prudent. It often prevents much bigger losses later.

Need help checking a property in Georgia? We can assist with document lists, on-site checks, and a safe transaction plan. Contact BuyHome to find the right property and complete the process securely: https://buyhome.ge/en/search or https://buyhome.ge/en