Answer first
The most important due diligence work happens before deposit: confirm title, seller authority, registry status, property condition, local costs, and closing mechanics. The checklist below gives buyers a practical structure for comparing listings.
Title and registry
- Current ownership record
- Prior transfer history
- Liens or encumbrances
- Boundary and cadastral consistency
Seller authority
- Seller identity
- Marital or company authorization where relevant
- Power of attorney validity
- Estate or inheritance issues
Property condition
- Structural condition
- Water and electricity reliability
- Roof, plumbing, and electrical systems
- Access road and parking
Operating costs
- Condominium fees
- Municipal taxes
- Security costs
- Maintenance and local management
Red flags to slow down for
- Pressure to pay a deposit before documents are reviewed
- Seller cannot prove current authority to sell
- Price is materially below similar properties without a clear reason
- Boundary, area, or registry details do not match the physical property
- Condominium, utility, or tax debts are not documented before closing
Where the checklist changes by property type
Apartments
Review condominium rules, fees, reserve funds, building condition, elevators, security, and rental restrictions.
Land and ranches
Check boundaries, access, water rights, productive use, fences, workers, and whether utilities are already available.
Vacation rentals
Validate local management, maintenance response, furnishing costs, guest access, seasonality, and realistic occupancy.
Next step
Use the checklist before comparing price. Then match the property to a region guide and buyer goal.