Notary or Public Service Hall: Where to Close the Deal and What’s Faster

Notary or Public Service Hall: which is better for your property deal? 🏢🏠

When buying or selling property in Georgia, buyers and sellers often must choose between a notary and the Public Service Hall (often called the House of Justice). Both routes are valid, but they differ in process, required documents, and practical advantages. This guide explains how to decide which option is faster and safer for your situation.

Main differences at a glance ✅

• Notary: private legal service, individual attention, useful for complex contracts and powers of attorney.
• Public Service Hall: state-run, standardized procedures, convenient branches and electronic services.
• Speed usually depends more on document readiness than on the place of signing.

Typical documents you will need 📑

• personal ID or passport;
• property ownership documents or an extract from the registry;
• draft sales contract or preliminary agreement;
• power of attorney if a representative acts on behalf of a party (may require translation/apostille for foreigners).

Practical tip: gather a complete document package before booking an appointment and verify registry extracts to avoid delays.

Which is faster — notary or Public Service Hall? ⏱️

There is no one-size-fits-all answer:

• If all documents are in order and there are no disputes, the Public Service Hall can be faster thanks to standardized registration procedures and digital tools.
• A notary is convenient when you need tailored contract wording, customized terms, or to prepare a power of attorney. For transactions with legal nuances a notary can save time overall.

Example: for a straightforward sale with a clear title, registering through the Public Service Hall is often smoother. For transactions involving shared ownership, mortgages, or foreign parties, starting with a notary may be wiser.

How to speed up the process — practical checklist 🛠️

1. Request and verify an up-to-date extract from the property registry.
2. Confirm whether third-party consents are required (spouse, co-owners, banks).
3. For foreign buyers: clarify translation and apostille needs in advance.
4. Decide on the contract format: standardized form at the Public Service Hall or custom contract through a notary.
5. Book appointments ahead — peak periods can create queues.
6. Prepare to pay state fees and service charges; keep receipts.

Common mistakes to avoid ⚠️

• Missing documents — the most frequent cause of postponed deals.
• Incorrect details in the contract — double-check names and addresses.
• Invalid or missing power of attorney for representatives.
• Not checking the registry for encumbrances (mortgages, seizures).

Taxes and extra costs to expect 💸

Consider notary fees or state charges, translation and apostille expenses, and bank transfer fees. Agree in writing who covers which costs before signing.

Advice for international buyers 🌍

• Check translation and apostille requirements for your country.
• Consider granting a properly legalized power of attorney if you cannot attend in person.
• Verify remote payment options and how the transaction will be recognized abroad.

Bottom line — how to choose 🧭

• For straightforward deals with complete documentation: the Public Service Hall is usually faster and convenient.
• For complex deals, customized terms, or when legal clarification is needed: use a notary.
• Preparation and registry checks matter more than the signing venue.

If you want tailored assistance with your specific transaction or help verifying documents, our team can guide you and prepare everything for a smooth registration. Start searching properties or view listings: https://buyhome.ge/en/search

Contact BuyHome to get professional help choosing and formalizing the right property with minimal delays. 📞