Can You Sell an Apartment Without Land Register

The land register is the main document proving property rights to real estate in Latvia. This article explains what happens if the land register entry is not in order.

What is the land register?

The land register is part of a public registry where rights to real estate are registered - apartments, houses, land plots. It's the main proof of property rights.

Can you sell without a land register entry?

Short answer: No. To legally sell an apartment in Latvia, property rights must be registered in the land register. Without a land register entry:

Situations when land register entry is not in order

1. Inheritance not formalized

If apartment is inherited but inheritance rights are not registered in land register, must first formalize inheritance.

2. Privatization not completed

Apartments privatized in Soviet times were not always registered in land register. Need to complete privatization process.

3. Property rights disputes

If there are disputes about property rights, they must be resolved before sale.

4. Errors in documents

Errors in personal data, area or other information must be corrected in land register.

How to solve land register problems

Step 1: Get land register certificate

Order land register certificate to see current entry and possible problems.

Step 2: Consult with legal expert

Real estate lawyer can help identify problem and plan solution.

Step 3: Organize documents

Depending on situation, may need:

Step 4: Submit application to land register

With organized documents, submit application to make necessary changes.

How long does the process take?

Costs

Land register entry costs depend on type of action:

Frequently asked questions

Can you start advertising apartment before organizing land register?

Yes, but must inform potential buyers about situation and expected timeframe.

Can buyer pay deposit before land register entry?

Recommended only with notarized deposit agreement and after consultation with legal expert.

What happens if problem is discovered during sale?

Transaction will be delayed until problem is resolved. Therefore better to check everything in advance.

Preventive measures

To avoid problems:

1. Regularly check land register entry

2. Immediately register all changes (inheritance, gift, name change)

3. Keep all property documents in safe place

4. Before sale, start land register check at least 2-3 months in advance

Conclusion

Cannot sell apartment without proper land register entry. However, most problems are solvable with proper document preparation and legal assistance. ERI Mājas team can help identify problems and provide recommendations for their solution. Contact us for consultation!