Follow the Colombian property closing process from the promesa to title registration.
A Colombian property closing moves through a purchase agreement, document checks, a notary appointment, signing the public deed, and title registration.
Each stage has its own documents, payments, and deadlines. Errors in the deed or supporting paperwork can delay registration.
We translate documents and explain the next required step, including legal review, notary work, and registration.
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The promesa de compraventa is the initial binding agreement between buyer and seller. It states the price, payment schedule, and conditions that must be met before closing. Have a lawyer review it before signing.
The promesa often includes property-condition clauses and a closing timeline. Changes require both parties' consent. The buyer typically pays the stated deposit after signing.
At the notary appointment, the parties sign the escritura pública, or public deed. The notary verifies the transfer and witnesses the signatures of the required parties and representatives.
The appointment is conducted in Spanish. The notary verifies identities, reviews the sale terms, and checks taxes and fees. Notary fees form part of closing costs and are typically split between buyer and seller; we provide translation.
The escritura pública records the property, buyer, seller, and sale terms. The parties sign it at the notary appointment; review those details before signing.
After signing, the escritura goes to the Oficina de Registro de Instrumentos Públicos to record the ownership change. Have it reviewed before signing because errors can delay registration.
Closing costs include notary fees, taxes, and registration fees. The stated items include impuesto de beneficencia, generally paid by the seller but subject to negotiation, and retención en la fuente for foreign sellers.
Costs vary by property location and value. The buyer typically pays registration fees, while the seller covers notary and transfer taxes. Request an itemized estimate before closing.
The signed escritura pública goes to the Oficina de Registro de Instrumentos Públicos. Registration can take several weeks and records the new owner.
Track registration until completion. Missing documents or requests for more information can cause delays; we report the status while it is pending.
Foreign buyers may need translation and help interpreting unfamiliar procedures. Colombian banks may also request extensive documentation and guarantees for financing.
We translate documents, explain the closing sequence, and coordinate with local banks when needed.
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