Transferring property ownership is a crucial step when selling, inheriting, or donating land or a house. This guide explains the necessary steps, required documents, costs, and precautions to secure your property.
1. What is property transfer?
Property transfer is the legal process by which ownership of real estate (land, house, or building) is passed from one person to another.
It becomes official only after registration and transcription at the Land and Property Office.
2. Situations requiring a property transfer
- Sale of land or house
- Donation or inheritance
- Family division or sharing
- Exchange of properties
3. Steps in the property transfer process
a. Signing the deed of sale or donation
The deed must be drafted by a notary public. It includes the identities of the parties, a description of the property, the price, and the terms of the transaction.
b. Checking the land title
Before signing, ensure the title deed is authentic, up to date, and free of any mortgage or dispute.
👉 This verification is done at the Land Office (Service des Domaines).
c. Registration of the deed
The signed deed must be registered with the Tax Office (Direction Générale des Impôts) for the calculation of registration duties.
d. Transcription at the Land Registry
Once registered, the deed must be transcribed in the land register under the name of the new owner.
This is the step that officially confirms the change of ownership.
4. Required documents
- Copy of the title deed
- Notarized deed of sale or donation
- Copies of the parties’ ID cards
- Tax clearance certificate and certificate of no dispute
- Proof of payment of registration fees
5. Estimated costs
- Notary fees: around 3–5% of the property’s value
- Registration fees: 5% of the sale price
- Transcription fees: vary depending on the area and value of the property
6. Tips and precautions
- Always work with an authorized notary
- Check the property’s history (disputes, mortgages, unresolved inheritances)
- Avoid unregistered private sales
- Keep all receipts and official copies
Conclusion
Property transfer in Madagascar may seem complex, but with a competent notary and careful verification, the process is smooth and secure.
A properly transferred title guarantees legal and recognized ownership.