How to check the developer before buying a property: a step-by-step guide

Buying a property is a serious decision, especially when it comes to a new building. Even if the property looks attractive and is located in a good area, it is important to understand who is building it. The reliability of the developer is one of the key factors that determines whether you will receive housing on time and in the declared quality. 

In this article, we will tell you how to check the developer and what you should pay attention to before concluding a deal.

What can you find out by the name of the developer?

The very first thing is to type in the name of the construction company in the search engine and add the word "reviews". You will find forums, ratings and opinions of other buyers. This will help you get a first impression of the company's reputation.

Also, pay attention to how many years the developer has been working on the market and how many facilities have already been commissioned. If there are delays, unfinished buildings or long—term construction in history, this is a reason to be wary.

— Check the partners and investors

If the developer has large financial partners (banks, investment funds), this is a good sign. Such organizations usually carefully check their counterparties. Usually, information about partners is posted on the company's official website.

— Explore the website and social media

See how detailed the developer's website is. Are there any photos and videos of the construction progress? Have the deadlines, documents, and infrastructure description been specified? How does the company conduct social media: does it respond to comments, does it publish current updates?

— Verification through state registers

In many countries, there are official portals where you can check the developer's registration, building permit, and other important information. Use these sources, they will help you avoid false information.

— Financial stability: what to look for

Too low a price without an explanation is an alarming signal. Compare the cost with similar properties nearby. Also pay attention to marketing: if the developer promises unrealistic discounts and gifts, the company may be experiencing financial difficulties and attracting money in all possible ways. 

If the company's shares are traded on the stock exchange, this is an additional plus, since such organizations are seriously tested.

— Personal visit to the facility

If in doubt, you should come to the construction site and see how the work is going. Do this twice a month apart to assess your progress. Also pay attention to the area: how well the infrastructure is developed, how the territory is arranged, whether there are schools, shops, parking nearby.

What documents should the developer provide?

The developer must have:

 • Project Declaration

 • Building permit

 • Expert opinion

 • Documents for the land plot

 • Constituent documentation

 • Certificate of state registration

 • Financial statements for several years

All documents must match the declared characteristics of the object. They must be provided upon request or published on the website. If the developer is evading the question, then it is better to choose another company.

Additional points to check

It will also be useful to know:

 • Who is the owner of the land and its purpose

 • Payment terms and the possibility of resale before delivery

 • The possibility of buying in a legal entity or in cryptocurrency

 • What types of heating and finishing are offered

 • How the parking is arranged

 • What service fees are provided

 • Who will be the management company

These points will help you get a complete picture and avoid unexpected surprises in the future.

Checking the developer is a key step when buying a property. It depends on him whether you will receive your accommodation on time and without unpleasant surprises. But understanding all the nuances, checking documents, reading forums and analyzing each item is not an easy process.

We can do all this for you. We have our own database of trusted developers, with whom we work directly and in whom we are confident. You do not need to waste time on self-inspection, be afraid of unfinished buildings or risks, we will select a reliable object for your request and accompany you at every stage of the transaction.

Leave a request for a free consultation, and we'll tell you where to start, which developer is right for you, and how to safely buy a property.