Buying Land in Brazil - The Process

When it comes to buying land in any country, firstly appoint a lawyer who is an expert in the area. Make sure the lawyer is reputable because they will be acting on your behalf. Once appointed your lawyer will carry out all necessary checks on the property or land in Brazil and fulfil the legal requirements of the purchase.

We suggest that you appoint a lawyer who is fluent in your language so that you fully understand all the legalities and proceedings.

Your lawyer will:

• Verify the current owners have the correct title to the property
• Verify and confirm any charges and liabilities still owed on the property
• Make sure that your contract meets all the buying criteria and advise you on the obligations for both parties
• Help you through the payment/funds transfer
• Ensure that the land is legally registered in your name.
  

The property registry system in Brazil  is safe and is well developed due to many foreign investors investing in this emerging economy. Land registration in Brazil is carried out by private notary publics. All land is registered at one single registry, which documents details of the entire commercial history and the physical identification of each plot of land. It is obviously very important to ensure that any land or property you buy has a clear title and your lawyer will ensure this is the case.

You will also need a Brazilian ID called a CPF. This is the US equivalent of a Social Security ID or the UK equivalent of a national insurance number and can be obtained fairly simply by your lawyer submitting a copy of your passport with a request for a CPF signature card from the Receita Federal.  This can then be included in any purchase agreement. A formal copy of the CPF card will be posted out to you at an address in Brazil – this will be your lawyer's address for ease.

You will need a deposit for your chosen property

• Property transfer fees of approximately 4%-5% of the purchase price.
• Balance payment before finalizing the sale.

Remember we do not operate Collective Investment Schemes and we do not apply for further planning on land plots you buy.