What to check before buying
A beautiful viewing is only one part of the decision. Investigate the legal right, the building, permitted use and the possession you will receive.
Identify the seller and the exact property
Ask the notary to check who holds the registered right and who may sign for the seller. Request the cadastral identity, prior deed and relevant survey information. Establish whether physical boundaries, buildings and access match the documents. Where property belongs to an estate or several owners, do not treat occupation or a family statement as evidence that one person can sell it. Resolve authority and boundary questions with the relevant professionals.
Read the land and association conditions
For erfpacht, ask about the grantor, remaining term, canon, arrears, review rules, renewal evidence and transfer consent. Do not assume automatic renewal or conversion to ownership. For an apartment or resort, request the division deed, rules, accounts, reserves, insurance and planned works. Ask whether your intended rental or other use is allowed. Establish which rights and obligations remain after the transfer.
Commission a technical inspection
Agree the scope with an independent inspector: structure, roof, moisture, termites, electrical and plumbing installations, drainage and wastewater may all matter. Ask what could not be inspected and whether specialist follow-up is needed. A valuation addresses value within its assumptions; it does not replace a technical inspection. Turn significant findings into repair quotations and discuss necessary contractual protection before signing.
Check permits and actual occupation
Request evidence for the original building, additions, pool and intended use. Ask the appropriate adviser or authority about planning and permit issues rather than rely on a seller’s reassurance. Establish who occupies the property and obtain relevant lease or use arrangements. Clarify whether vacant possession is promised, who must deliver it and what happens if it is delayed. A sale does not by itself prove that occupants must leave.
Close the gaps before committing
Keep a written list of questions, documents, responsible parties and answers. Mark anything unverified clearly. Decide which findings require further advice, a contractual condition, a price discussion or walking away. At the final walkthrough, compare the agreed condition and inventory and record meter readings. Keep the inspection and legal records after completion; a checked box is not a guarantee that every risk has disappeared.