Paying from Abroad: How to Arrange a Safe Transfer for the Deal—Examples

Paying from abroad: how to transfer property funds securely ✅

Buying property in Georgia while living abroad is common and feasible. The key is to plan the transfer to protect yourself legally, comply with banking requirements and keep fees reasonable.

Main transfer options 💡

• International bank transfer (SWIFT) — reliable for larger amounts and widely accepted.
• Payment platforms and fintech services — faster in many cases, but check limits and acceptance in Georgia.
• Escrow account or notary-held funds — recommended for buyer and seller protection.
• Transfer via an authorised representative (with notarised power of attorney) — convenient but needs trust and proper documentation.

What to check before sending funds ⚖️

1. Who is sending: personal account or corporate account? Banks often ask for proof of funds origin.
2. Currency: consider sending in EUR or USD; conversion to GEL will occur at the recipient bank rate unless otherwise agreed.
3. Required documents: sales contract, IDs, possible proof of funds origin.
4. Fees and exchange rates: ask both your bank and the recipient bank about fees and possible intermediary costs.

Practical scenarios and step-by-step examples 🔍

Scenario A — Direct payment from your foreign bank account

1. Agree with the seller on currency and bank details (recipient name, IBAN/account number, SWIFT/BIC, bank address if needed).
2. Specify in the contract who bears transfer fees and at what stage payment is considered complete.
3. Send the transfer and obtain the SWIFT confirmation; keep it as proof of payment.
4. Once funds arrive, proceed with notary registration and handover.

Tip: specify in the contract whether payment is deemed executed at the moment the payment order is debited from your account or when funds are credited to the seller — this protects you against delays.

Scenario B — Escrow or notary-held funds

1. Open an escrow account at a bank or arrange that a notary holds the funds.
2. You transfer funds to escrow; the notary confirms receipt and keeps funds until all contract conditions are met.
3. After title transfer is registered, the escrow releases funds to the seller.

Benefit: neutral third-party control reduces risk for both buyer and seller — ideal for remote deals.

Scenario C — Transfer through a trusted representative

1. Prepare a clear notarised power of attorney, specifying payment limits and purposes.
2. Verify the representative’s identity and documents before transferring funds.

Risk: inadequate POA or insufficient vetting can create legal problems. Use legal counsel if unsure.

Documents and proof to prepare 📄

• Passport/ID of sender and recipient.
• Sale agreement specifying payment terms.
• Proof of funds origin (requested by banks in some cases).
• SWIFT confirmation or account statement showing the transfer.

Taxes and regulation — brief note 🧾

Tax implications depend on seller status and the deal structure. These matters are best clarified with an accountant or lawyer to avoid surprises during registration.

Practical checklist before sending money ✔️

• Double-check bank details, including SWIFT/BIC and account numbers.
• Clarify who pays international and intermediary bank fees.
• Ask your bank for a sample payment order or instructions.
• Consider escrow for large sums.
• Keep all electronic and paper confirmations of payment.
• Involve a notary or lawyer if any doubt remains.

Common mistakes and how to avoid them ❗

• Sending funds to a private intermediary without a clear contract.
• Not having proof of funds origin when banks request it — delays may follow.
• Poorly drafted power of attorney when using a representative.

Final thoughts and next steps 🚀

Transferring money from abroad to buy property in Georgia can be safe when you plan, prepare documents and choose the right transfer method (bank transfer, escrow, or a trusted representative). If you need help finding property or organising payment, BuyHome can guide you through the process and suggest secure payment structures. Start your property search on our site: https://buyhome.ge/en/search.

Contact us — we’ll help arrange the payment and support the transaction step by step.