In addition to checking the property records, the due diligence should include contacting City Hall to make sure that property taxes are paid for, checking with the cadastral office that the property map has been approved, and checking court records if the investigation at the Property Registry shows that the property has been involved in any litigation. For certain properties, such as properties on coastal areas or near the borders, it may also be necessary to obtain a certificate from the Attorney General Office.

As mentioned before, the origin of the title is important, as in the 1980’s Nicaragua underwent several phases of agrarian reform, and in 1990 many urban properties that at the time were in the hands of the government were transferred to the person or persons that at the time were occupying the property (Laws 85 and 86 of 1990). If the property title comes from agrarian reform, or from Laws 85 or 86, some extra steps must be taken to determine if the title is clear, as otherwise, the buyer may face legal issues in the future.

Another aspect to consider is obtaining a land use certificate, which is particularly important for vacant lots intended for development. The land use certificate allows the investor to determine if the property can be used for the intended purpose.

Finally, at the time of signing the Purchase Agreement It is important to make sure that the property has been vacated; as otherwise you would have to undergo a legal process in order to evict any persons occupying the property and unwilling to vacate.

© 2020 Bendaña & Bendaña – All rights Reserved