Match the plans, schedules and legal description
Start by placing the approved drawings, sale agreement, area schedule and title information side by side. They should tell the same story about the building, its floors, parking, storage and common areas. If an area is described differently in a brochure and a legal document, ask for the distinction in writing.
For a building intended for several tenants, clarify whether floors and parking can be used or leased independently. Flexibility is valuable only when it is supported by the actual legal and technical structure.
Ask for the permits behind the finished image
Request the planning and building permits, approved drawings and any available completion or compliance documents. An independent lawyer and engineer should confirm what applies in the particular transaction. Do not rely on a marketing reference to “licensed” or “approved” without seeing the relevant records.
Changes to a reception, roof area, plant room or parking arrangement can affect more than appearance. They may affect future use, insurance, maintenance or resale.
Treat operating data as seriously as purchase data
A modern façade is not an operating budget. Ask for information on cooling, lifts, common-area power, security, cleaning, insurance, maintenance contracts and photovoltaic systems where applicable. If the building is occupied, request a clear picture of service charges and outstanding obligations.
Where leases are part of the purchase, have the rent roll, deposits, term dates, break clauses and tenant obligations reviewed independently. Income is only comparable when those terms are understood.
- A signed or draft area schedule.
- Permit and drawing records.
- Parking and storage allocation documents.
- Service-charge, warranty and maintenance information.
- Lease and tenant information, if applicable.
Use advisers early enough to change the decision
Legal, tax and technical reviews are most useful before a buyer is commercially committed. Set document deadlines and make material findings part of the decision process, rather than treating them as a formality before signing.
The right question is not whether a building is “good” in the abstract. It is whether the documents support the exact use, ownership structure and budget the buyer is planning.
This guide is general information, not legal, tax, immigration, valuation or investment advice. Property details and market conditions change. Buyers should verify all material facts with independent qualified advisers.