Steps to buy property in Syria

Buying property is a big decision. These steps protect you from the most common mistakes.

1. Decide what you want

The area, the budget in the currency you will pay, the kind of property, the size, and what matters to you, such as solar power, an elevator or the finishing.

2. Search and view

Compare several ads in the same area, and view the property yourself or through someone you trust, in daylight, checking electricity, water, finishing and the neighbourhood.

3. Check ownership

Ask for a recent property statement (بيان قيد عقاري) from the real-estate registry, match the owner's name with the seller's ID, and look for anything registered on the property such as a mortgage or a seizure. If the seller is an agent, see the original power of attorney and check that it is valid.

4. Know the kind of title

A green title deed is not the same as a court ruling, a power of attorney or a cooperative contract; each has its own steps and risks. See the guide to title deeds.

5. Put it in writing

A written sale contract naming the property, its number, area, price, payment terms and handover date, preferably reviewed by a lawyer.

6. Pay in a way you can prove

Avoid cash without a receipt, and do not pay the full price before the transfer is completed or secured.

7. Register it in your name

Transfer the ownership officially at the real-estate registry once the papers and approvals are complete and the fees paid, and keep copies of everything.

General information, not legal advice. Procedures and fees change: check them with the authority concerned or a lawyer.