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Checking a developer. The checklist before buying a new build.

In short

When buying a new build you often hand the developer a lot of money before the building stands. So check five things before signing: who owns the land, whether there is a building permit, what the developer has built before, how far construction is, and what the contract says about delays.

To the checklist

Anyone can view the land's registry extract online at the National Agency of Public Registry.

Buying off-plan

Checklist

Five points before every signature.

Go through this list for every project. If something is missing, ask.

  1. Land in the registry

    Does the developer own the land? Are there mortgages or other encumbrances? The registry extract shows it.

  2. Building permit

    Ask to see the permit and check that floors and area match the offer.

  3. Past projects

    What has the developer completed, and were handovers on time? Visit a finished building.

  4. Construction progress

    Compare the site with the schedule. Recent photos or a visit help.

  5. Contract and payment plan

    Check rules on delay, withdrawal and defects. Ideally tie instalments to construction progress.

Frequently asked questions

Questions about checking a developer.

Land, permits, our role and warning signs.

How do I check who owns the land?

Through the registry extract from the National Agency of Public Registry. It shows owner and encumbrances and is available online.

What if there is no building permit?

Don't buy until there is one. Without a permit the risk of delays and registration problems is high.

Can AcrossEstate do the check for me?

We publish developers' documents and information clearly. That does not replace a legal review, for which we recommend an independent lawyer.

What are warning signs?

Very large advance payments, pressure to sign quickly, missing documents or a contract without delay clauses.

Last reviewed on 1 November 2026. Sources: National Agency of Public Registry (Georgia), Tbilisi City Hall and Batumi City Hall (building permits). This guide is not legal or tax advice.

Read next

More on buying new builds.

Buying off-plan at a glance, payment plans and the buying process.

Safety

Buying off-plan

Risks of buying a new build and how to protect yourself.

Payment

Developer payment plans

How payment plans work in Georgia and what to check.

Process

Buying process step by step

From choosing a project to the registry extract: every step explained.

Compare projects with their documents.

Each project shows which documents the developer has published.

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