Resale Documents: What to Check with the Owner—Step by Step

Resale Property Documents: What to Check with the Owner — Step-by-Step 🏠

Buying a resale apartment requires careful document checks. This guide offers a clear, practical checklist of what to request from the seller, how to verify key records, and how to avoid common risks.

Quick checklist before you start ✅

• Seller's ID (passport or national ID)
• Official property record (registry extract)
• Spousal consent or matrimonial agreement if relevant
• Previous sale contracts and transfer history
• Technical passport and cadastral plan
• Proof of no outstanding utility or tax debts
• Information about liens, arrests, or encumbrances
• Powers of attorney if a representative is selling

Step 1. Identity and proof of ownership 🪪

Always ask to see the seller's original ID and the official registry extract. The property registry shows who the legal owner is, whether the property is shared, and any formal restrictions.

Practical tip: copy or photograph originals for your records after verifying authenticity.

Step 2. Check the title history and past transactions 📜

Review the chain of ownership in the registry. Look for complicated transfers, inheritance entries, or other notes that signal potential disputes.

Example: if a previous transfer used a power of attorney, ask to see the original document and its notarization.

Step 3. Encumbrances, liens and legal holds ⚠️

Confirm there are no bank pledges, court arrests, or other encumbrances. The registry extract often lists these, but if unclear, obtain additional confirmations from relevant authorities or a notary.

Step 4. Marital status and shares 👥

If the owner is married, check whether the property is marital or individual. You may need written spouse consent or evidence of a matrimonial agreement. For co-owned properties, ensure all owners agree and sign.

Step 5. Technical documents and physical condition 🛠️

Request the technical passport and cadastral information: layout, area, utilities. Verify whether any unauthorized renovations were made and whether permits exist for major changes.

Practical example: unauthorized structural changes can complicate registration and insurance.

Step 6. Utility balances and taxes 💡

Ask for recent bills and certificates showing no outstanding utility or tax debts. Sellers often settle small debts before closing, but written proof is essential.

Step 7. Powers of attorney and representation ✍️

If someone else is selling on behalf of the owner, verify the power of attorney: authenticity, scope, and validity. Obtain notarized copies and check signatures.

Step 8. Safe payments and contract tips 💼

• Avoid transferring large sums to personal accounts without a formal contract and notarized closing.
• Use a notary escrow or bank escrow if possible.
• Prepare a clear preliminary agreement covering deadlines, handover terms, and liabilities for hidden defects.

Red flags to watch for 🚩

• Seller refuses to show original documents.
• Registry data does not match ID information.
• Pending lawsuits, arrests, or unresolved transactions.
• Unexplained utility or tax arrears.

If you spot any red flags, pause the process and verify thoroughly.

Summary and action plan 📌

1. Request the full document package and make copies.
2. Verify registry extract and transaction history.
3. Confirm encumbrances and outstanding debts with authorities.
4. Verify technical condition and necessary consents.
5. Close the deal with a notary using a secure payment method.

Start your property search and check listings on our site: https://buyhome.ge/en/search or explore available apartments: https://buyhome.ge/en/apartments

If you'd like help checking documents or completing the purchase, BuyHome will assist every step of the way. Contact us to make the process safe and simple.