Ask for a written purchase tax estimate before committing to a property. The calculation should identify the transaction, the buyer, the applicable territory and the basis used for valuation.
Ask your adviser whether the purchase falls under transfer tax or VAT and whether stamp duty also applies. A resale, developer transaction, land purchase or commercial acquisition may need a different analysis. Describe the actual transaction rather than relying only on the label in the advertisement.
Request the applicable rate or scale, the tax base and the reason for any relief claimed. Ask whether an official reference value is relevant and what happens if it differs from the agreed price. Keep written evidence supporting the calculation and any qualification for a reduced rate.
Purchase tax is one component. List the legal fee, applicable VAT on services, notary, Registry, valuation and financing costs separately. Confirm when each amount is due and how funds held on account will be reconciled.
Agree who files the relevant return, who pays it and who keeps the acknowledgement. Ask what supporting documents are needed for registration. A completion statement should make clear which figures are estimates and which have already been paid.
Use it only as a prompt for questions. Have the actual property and transaction assessed under the relevant rules.
General information, not individual legal or tax advice. Ask a qualified adviser to confirm the position for your property and circumstances.
Contact Property Lawyers to enquire about finding an independent adviser for your transaction.