Due diligence in Philippine real estate is not optional — it is the difference between a profitable investment and a legal nightmare. This checklist covers every critical check across four phases: title/legal, tax/financial, physical/structural, and operational.
How to use this checklist: Items marked "Critical" must be completed and confirmed clean before any significant payment is made. Items without this label are important but can be addressed in parallel with payment stages.
Title and Legal
Certified True Copy of TCT/CCT from Registry of Deeds
CriticalTitle annotations review — zero unresolved annotations
CriticalSeller identity verification vs government ID
CriticalAuthority to sell (Board Resolution if corporate seller)
CriticalTechnical description matches physical lot
CriticalNo lis pendens, adverse claims, or court orders
CriticalFor condos: foreign ownership percentage confirmation
CriticalFor leasehold: full lease agreement reviewed by attorney
CriticalTax and Financial
Real Property Tax (RPT) clearance — all payments current
CriticalTax Declaration matches title technical description
Zonal value vs purchase price comparison for CGT calculation
CGT payment commitment agreed with seller pre-signing
CriticalAssociation dues current (for condos)
Utility bills settled — no outstanding arrears
Physical / Structural
Independent structural assessment by qualified engineer
CriticalDENR compliance — building permit on file
CriticalBeachfront setback compliance (25m from high-water mark)
CriticalElectrical, plumbing, and airconditioning systems inspected
Pool and outdoor structures assessed
Inventory list agreed and documented
Operational (for rental properties)
Current rental agreements reviewed (existing bookings)
CriticalManagement contract terms reviewed and understood
Airbnb listing history / revenue data reviewed
Guest review history assessed
Insurance coverage details reviewed
Utility and HOA costs fully disclosed
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