Main Blog Step-by-Step Checklist for Buying Property Abroad (2025)

Step-by-Step Checklist for Buying Property Abroad (2025)

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9/23/2025

Step-by-Step Checklist for Buying Property Abroad (2025)

International property purchases involve unfamiliar rules, currencies, and documents. A step-by-step checklist keeps the process clear, reduces risk, and helps you align payments and documents with local legal standards. Follow the 10 steps below for a safe transaction.

Key terms in 20 seconds

Reservation deposit: initial payment (often 5–10%) to secure the property, credited at completion.
Escrow/client account: neutral account where funds are released once milestones are met.
MT103: SWIFT proof of international transfer showing sender, beneficiary, and purpose.
KYC/SoF: identity (Know Your Customer) and source-of-funds checks by banks and notaries.
Title registration: formal entry in the land registry making you the legal owner.

10-step international property checklist

Define your goal & budget: decide if the property is for living, investment, or relocation; set a realistic budget including fees/taxes.
Shortlist markets & property types: research demand, legal frameworks, and eligibility rules for foreigners.
Build your team: select a lawyer/notary, licensed broker, and optional tax/FX advisor.
Finance & compliance: check mortgage availability for non-residents; prepare KYC/SoF pack; secure pre-approval where possible.
Viewings & preliminary checks: inspect property or virtual tour; order a fresh title extract and encumbrance check.
Make an offer & negotiate: agree on price and conditions; insert financing or permit clauses.
Set payment architecture: prefer escrow/client account; stage payments (reservation → exchange → completion) with MT103 proofs.
Contracts & signing: reservation agreement, sale contract, or notarized deed; PoA if remote — ensure it’s legalized and accepted locally.
Completion & registration: notary signs and files deed; collect updated registry extract showing you as the owner.
Aftercare: connect utilities, arrange insurance, set up property management or rental permits.

Cost breakdown — one clear table

Cost element	Typical range	Notes
Reservation / deposit	5–10% of purchase price	Credited on completion; non-refundable if buyer withdraws
Legal & notary fees	~1–3%	Varies by jurisdiction; includes deed drafting, title checks
Taxes / transfer fees	~2–10%	Stamp duty, transfer tax, or VAT depending on property type
Bank / FX fees	0.5–2% (spread)	Depends on provider; forward contracts reduce volatility
Registry & admin	~0.5–1%	Registration fee, extracts, admin charges
Survey / insurance	~0.5–1%	Optional but recommended for technical risk and cover

Red-flag audit (quick self-check)

Payment requested to a private IBAN or in cash.
No fresh title extract or encumbrance certificate provided.
Pressure to skip survey, snagging, or permits “to save time”.
PoA not legalized or accepted by local registry.
Payment narrative on MT103 does not match contract wording.

Two expert notes

“Clarity wins deals: one indexed PDF with all contracts, IDs, and proofs is faster to register.” — Valerie, Head of Marketing

“Don’t fear deposits — fear missing documents. Stage payments only when paperwork aligns.” — Sercan, CEO

Common mistakes (and quick fixes)

All funds at once → stage by documents; request MT103 for each tranche.

No valuation or survey → order an independent survey; keep dated photos.

Ignoring FX & spreads → ask for all-in rates from bank vs FX provider; lock a forward for tranches.

No mortgage condition → insert financing/permit clause with a longstop date.

FAQ

How long does buying abroad take? Often 2–4 months, but longer with financing or complex permits.

Do I need local credit history? Not always; foreign references and bank letters may substitute.

Is escrow required? Not always, but safest for cross-border deals; check local practice.

What proves payment? MT103 proof + completion statement aligned with contract/deed.

What this article answers

What is the step-by-step process? Ten clear steps from goals to aftercare.
How much does it cost? Table with deposits, taxes, legal fees, FX, and insurance.
How to pay safely? Escrow/client account with staged MT103 proofs.
Which documents matter most? Registry extract, encumbrance certificate, contracts, PoA.
What to avoid? Red-flag audit to catch fraud and compliance issues early.

Next steps

For detailed buyer checklists (contracts, narratives, escrow triggers) and templates, review advisory resources. For a full overview of services from search to registration, see our materials.

VelesClub Int. supports buyers with step-by-step guidance, escrow structures, and clean registrations worldwide.