A simple guide on how to buy real property and register/transfer it in your name in the Philippines.

Real property disputes can be a headache for both current and potential owners, which is why it’s essential to ensure that all procedures related to the transfer of property titles are done legally. The process of purchasing a house or condominium is not easy and doesn’t end with the payment and securing an Absolute Deed of Sale. The most challenging part is transferring the property title to the new owner, which requires legal knowledge, common sense, and patience.

To transfer the property title legally, here are the steps you need to follow:

1. Filing of necessary documentary requirements at the Bureau of Internal Revenue Regional District Office (BIR RDO). You need to submit the following documents to the government agency: original copy of the notarized Deed of Absolute Sale (DAS), owner’s duplicate copy of the Transfer Certificate of Title (TCT) or the Condominium Certificate of Title (CCT), certified true copies of the latest Tax Declaration, and Tax Identification Numbers (TIN) of the Seller and Buyer. Other necessary documents may also be required.

2. Getting the assessment of transfer taxes at the BIR RDO and Authorized Agent Bank (AAB) or Municipal or City Treasurer’s Office. Request for the BIR representative to compute the Capital Gains Tax (CGT – BIR Form 1706) or Creditable Withholding tax (CWT-BIR Form 1606) and Documentary Stamp Tax (DST – BIR Form 2000). The forms need to be signed and filed at the AAB or the Municipal/City Treasurer’s Office.

3. Submit the documents at the BIR for the issuance of Certificate Authorizing Registration (CAR) or BIR Clearance. Secure the CAR at the BIR office, together with the documents mentioned in step 1.

4. Payment of Transfer Taxes and issuance of Tax Clearance at the Local Treasurer’s Office. Pay the Transfer Tax and produce the necessary documents prior to the issuance of the Tax Clearance.

5. Issuance of new Transfer Certificate of Title (TCT) or Condominium Certificate of Title (CCT) at the Registry of Deeds. Receive the Owner’s Duplicate Copy of the TCT or CCT in your name after presenting the required documents.

6. Issuance of new Tax Declaration at the Municipal or Provincial Assessor’s Office. Ensure that the TCT or CCT has been transferred to your name before securing the new Tax Declaration. Submit the required documents.

The entire procedure may take months or even a year and requires multiple trips to different government offices. Non-compliance with the rules can result in penalties and legal headaches. It’s advisable to hire a registered and reliable office, preferably a law firm, to help you with the entire process. Purchasing a real property can be a daunting task, but following these steps can ensure a hassle-free transfer of property title.