An attorney investigates the land title
Agency: Land Court and Clerk of Courts
Even if the title search is not mandatory, it is highly recommended. Land disputes are widespread, and only less than half of the land is surveyed with a certificate of title issued. Land title records are kept in paper formats, which are not sorted by parcel number. As a result, it takes time for officials at the Land Court to check for past transactions on a property or land. Attorneys provide clients due diligence but will stipulate in their contract with clients that the search will not guarantee if there are no disputes or liens attached to the title.
Time and cost: 7 days, USD 1,125
An attorney prepares a lease
Agency: Land Court and Clerk of Courts
It is standard practice for an attorney to draft land leases. It is uncommon for companies to buy or sell ownership of land and building since the records are not reliable. In most cases, companies prefer to transfer a lease.
Time and cost: 1 day, USD 300
Notarize the document at the Clerk of Courts
Agency: Clerk of Courts
The document is notarized at the Clerk of Courts.
Time and cost: 1 day, USD 12 ($3 per signature (x 4 for parties and their representatives))
Record the lease at the Land Court
Agency: Land Court
The lease is recorded at the Land Court.
Time and cost: 1 day, USD 5
Register the new title at the Land Court
Agency: Central Land Registry Section
In case of change of ownership, the parties turn in the “warranty deed” an old title and obtain a new title.
Time and cost: 4 days, no charge
