Georgia Property Laws: Core Rights for Foreign Buyers

Property laws in Georgia: foreigner's basic rights when buying

Buying property in Georgia is popular with both residents and international buyers. This guide explains the basic rights foreign buyers usually have, common restrictions, and practical steps to help you complete a secure purchase. 🏠🇬🇪

Key points at a glance ✅

• In most cases, foreigners enjoy the same property rights as Georgian citizens.
• Exceptions may apply to certain land types and protected areas; always verify the land category.
• Owning property does not automatically grant residency — immigration rules are separate.

What foreigners commonly can buy

• Apartments and houses in cities and resort areas.
• Commercial premises and investment units.
• Units in new developments and resale properties.

Some types of land, notably certain agricultural or protected parcels, may have additional restrictions. If you plan to buy land, check the local municipality status and consult a lawyer beforehand.

Practical due diligence steps 🛡️

1. Title check. Request an official extract from the public registry using the cadastral number and confirm the registered owner.
2. Check encumbrances. Look for mortgages, liens, disputes, or unresolved utility debts that could affect the purchase.
3. Physical inspection. Arrange a technical inspection to uncover hidden defects or structural issues.
4. Contract and notary. Use a clear purchase agreement with notary involvement and register the transaction in the Public Registry.
5. Include warranties. Specify condition, transfer terms, and remedies for breach or undisclosed defects.

Taxes and fees — what to expect 💼

There are taxes and administrative fees related to purchase and ownership. These vary by transaction type and buyer status. Consult a tax advisor to estimate total costs and ongoing obligations.

Legal risks and how to reduce them ⚖️

• Work with a qualified local lawyer experienced in property transactions for foreigners.
• Verify seller authority when dealing with representatives or companies.
• Keep copies of all contracts, receipts, and communications to protect your interests.

Investment considerations for buyers and investors 📈

• Study local rental demand and seasonality, especially in resort cities.
• Assess liquidity: properties in sought-after locations generally resell or rent faster.
• Plan an exit strategy: know how you would sell or lease the property if needed.

Step-by-step checklist before signing 📝

• Confirm identity and ownership documents of the seller.
• Order registry extract and confirm cadastral data.
• Request a buildings permit history for new constructions.
• Include clear payment schedule and transfer conditions in the contract.

Common issues and practical fixes 🔍

• Issue: Outstanding utility bills found after purchase. Fix: Include clause that seller clears debts before transfer or escrow payment until cleared.
• Issue: Disputed boundaries. Fix: Commission a cadastral survey and require official correction before closing.

Final thoughts and friendly advice 🤝

Most foreign purchases in Georgia proceed smoothly if you perform careful due diligence and engage trusted professionals. Take your time, document everything, and get local legal and tax advice.

If you need help finding properties, checking documents, or completing the purchase, BuyHome is here to assist. Contact us for personalized support and view curated listings: https://buyhome.ge/en/search or https://buyhome.ge/en/apartments

We are ready to help you choose the right property and guide you through the whole process.