We plan and draft real estate contracts on your behalf, or review contracts prepared by the other party. Within the framework of legal consultation, we map out your real estate problem and propose the most suitable legal solution. Our firm’s primary specialties are real estate purchase and real estate gifting.
Transfer of property ownership
Property ownership is most commonly acquired through transfer — most frequently by way of purchase. In addition to a contract or other legal title, registration of the change of ownership in the real estate registry is required. While under the Civil Code a purchase agreement is validly concluded even if executed only as a private document with full probative value, registration in the land registry — which is required for ownership to pass — can only be carried out on the basis of a notarial deed or a private document countersigned by an attorney. If one of the parties is a company, the company’s in-house counsel may also countersign the agreement.
There are two main types of purchase agreement, depending on whether the purchase price is paid in full by the time the agreement is signed, or paid in instalments (e.g. via a bank loan).
Where the full purchase price is paid to the seller at signing, the seller issues the registration consent for the title transfer immediately. In this case the procedure is relatively quick and cost-effective.
Where the full price is not paid at signing, the buyer pays a deposit to demonstrate serious intent and pays the remaining price at the times agreed in the contract. The seller issues the registration consent upon payment of the final instalment, or places it in attorney escrow.
In instalment payment cases, the buyer is protected by the registration of the fact of sale with retention of title, and by suspension of the registration.
We inform our clients of the real estate purchase process by phone, email or in person, following consultation on the details.
How we can help with your property matter
Our firm provides full representation in the following areas:
- Real estate purchase and sale agreement — drafting and countersigning
- Real estate gift agreements
- New build property and developer contracts
- Residential and commercial lease agreements
- Condominium law, Deed of Foundation, and SZMSZ
- The real estate purchase process — steps and timeline
- Attorney’s fees and other associated costs
- Frequently asked questions about real estate transactions
Other real estate services
- Drafting and reviewing lease agreements
- Establishing usufruct and easement rights
- Resolving shared-use arrangements
- Terminating co-ownership
- Loan agreements and mortgage-related documents