Buying an apartment or house
6 tasks in suggested order
1. Verify the owner, the title deed, liens, easements, enforcement proceedings, access, and the actual technical and legal condition of the property.
Before making a reservation, signing the contract, or sending a significant payment.
Land Registry, the seller, and—if necessary—a lawyer or technical expert.
Current land registry extract, proof of ownership (acquisition title), building documentation, and draft contracts.
Real estate listings and reservation agreements do not replace legal and technical due diligence.
Official source: portal.gov.cz
2. Have the purchase agreement prepared or reviewed, along with a secure mechanism for escrow and the release of the purchase price.
Before signing and before making payment to the seller.
Lawyer, notary, or bank, depending on the chosen escrow method; signatures must meet land registry requirements.
Purchase agreement, identification details, financing arrangements, and escrow terms.
Ownership does not transfer merely by signing the purchase agreement.
Official source: portal.gov.cz
3. Submit the application to register ownership rights with the land registry and monitor the proceedings until a decision is reached.
After signing the contract and fulfilling the conditions for submission.
The land registry office with jurisdiction over the property or via supported electronic submission.
Application for registration, the registration document (contract), and other required attachments.
Key details in the application and contract must match; errors can delay proceedings or lead to rejection.
Official source: portal.gov.cz
4. Once contractual conditions are met, take possession of the property via a handover protocol; record meter readings, keys, and defects; and transfer utility services and property management.
On the handover date specified in the contract.
With the seller, the homeowners' association (SVJ)/property manager, and utility providers.
Handover protocol, meter readings, the contract, and confirmations required to transfer utility services.
The handover and the official recording of ownership may occur on different days; refer to the contract.
Official source: portal.gov.cz
5. Verify the obligation to file a real estate tax return after acquisition and include the property in the correct tax period.
Within the statutory deadline following the year of acquisition or another relevant change.
The competent local tax office / electronic filing with the tax administration.
Data from the Cadastre, the effective date of the ownership entry, and property specifications.
Real estate tax is not the same as transfer costs and does not arise merely through the automatic payment made at the time of purchase.
Official source: financnisprava.gov.cz
6. Arrange property insurance (and household insurance, if applicable) aligned with the handover date and financing terms.
No later than the moment you bear the risk under the contract; for mortgages, as required by the bank.
Your chosen insurance company and, if applicable, the financing bank.
Details regarding the structure, value, amenities, and bank requirements.
Building, household, and liability insurance cover different risks.
Official source: portal.gov.cz
