Use this checklist to organise the questions. Not every item applies to every property, and some answers require a Polish lawyer, notary, engineer, valuer or tax adviser.
1. Define the purchase
- intended use: own home / rental / development / business / landholding;
- budget including taxes, fees, repairs and financing;
- preferred locations and unacceptable locations;
- required timeline;
- required yield or practical outcome;
- decisions that can be delegated and decisions that cannot.
2. Identify the parties
- exact seller identity;
- seller’s authority to sell;
- agent’s client and fee source;
- other owners, spouses, companies or representatives;
- power of attorney where used;
- person receiving any reservation fee or deposit.
3. Identify the property
- correct address and land/plot references;
- land and mortgage register details where applicable;
- boundaries and access;
- utilities;
- common areas and rights;
- current occupants, tenants or users;
- furnishings/equipment included.
4. Legal and planning review
- ownership and encumbrances;
- claims, mortgages or easements;
- planning designation and intended use;
- permits and completed works;
- foreign-buyer permit requirements where applicable;
- contracts and reservation terms;
- source and timing of legal advice.
5. Technical review
- structure and visible defects;
- roof, façade and moisture;
- heating, electrical, water and sewage;
- windows, insulation and ventilation;
- installations and service records;
- common-building condition;
- inspection by an appropriate professional;
- repair priorities and cost quotations.
6. Cost picture
- purchase price;
- taxes;
- notary and court fees;
- agent or adviser fees;
- legal and technical checks;
- financing costs;
- immediate repairs;
- utilities and service charges;
- insurance;
- recurring tax and management;
- furnishing or fit-out;
- travel and remote coordination.
7. Before payment or signature
- exact document being signed;
- refund and withdrawal conditions;
- payment recipient and account;
- milestones and conditions;
- unresolved questions documented;
- lawyer/notary review completed where required;
- currency and transfer timing;
- who has authority to approve changes.
8. Handover
- protocol;
- meter readings;
- keys and access devices;
- visible condition and photographs;
- documents and warranties;
- defects and deadlines;
- utilities and administration transfer;
- insurance active;
- contractor or management plan.
Need someone to apply this checklist locally? Discuss the property with Tim.