Buyer's Guide › Chapter 5 of 6

Closing the deal: from reservation to a title in your name

Here's the typical path from "yes" to holding a title in your name:

1. Reservation — pay the reservation fee to secure the property while documents are prepared.
2. Contract to Sell (CTS) — sets out the price, payment terms, and obligations while you pay the down payment or complete financing.
3. Deed of Absolute Sale (DOAS) — the notarized document that actually transfers ownership once the price (or financing) is settled.
4. BIR — CAR / eCAR — file and pay the taxes with the Bureau of Internal Revenue to get the Certificate Authorizing Registration (CAR/eCAR). Without this, the title can't be transferred.
5. Transfer Tax — pay this at the local treasurer's office.
6. Registry of Deeds — submit the documents so the old title is cancelled and a new title is issued in your name.
7. Transfer utilities & tax declaration — update the tax declaration at the assessor's office, and move the water, power, and association accounts into your name.

Timelines vary, and it's normal for the full transfer to take several weeks to a few months. A licensed broker or lawyer can shepherd the paperwork so nothing stalls.

Frequently asked questions