Selling your property in Syria while you are abroad: papers, agency, price, and receiving the price safely

Many Syrians residing abroad own a house or land in Syria and want to sell it, but they are afraid of fraud, of selling for less than its value, or of the complexity of the procedures. In this article, we explain to you how to sell your property in Syria while you are abroad safely, and at the best possible price.

1. Arrange the property papers first

A serious buyer will ask for clear papers, and a property with incomplete papers will sell for a lower price. Before any announcement:

• Obtain a recent real estate registration statement and confirm that the property is registered in your name.
• Check for signs (mortgage, lien, lawsuit) or work to file them.
• If the property is an inheritance: complete an inventory of the inheritance and agree in writing with the remaining heirs.
• Prepare proof of payment of fees and bills.

2. The correct power of attorney for whoever represents you

You need someone to represent you in Syria: a trusted relative, a lawyer, or a real estate office. Organize a sales agency for him at the Syrian Consulate or according to the approved procedures, and our advice is:

• Make it specific to a specific property with its number and real estate area, not a general agency for all your properties.
• Mention the authority to sell and collect the price, or stipulate that the price be paid directly to you.
• A minimum price or duration can be set for the agency's validity.

3. Set the right price

Don't rely on a number you heard recently. Request an evaluation from a real estate office familiar with the area, and compare the prices of similar properties offered in the same neighborhood. The exaggerated price makes the property remain for months without a buyer, and the low price is an irreparable loss.

4. Show the property professionally

Good photos and accurate description bring more buyers and higher seriousness. Because a large portion of buyers today are Syrians abroad as well, advertising on a site that reaches them increases the chances of selling. At Al-Jadoua Real Estate, we photograph the property and publish it on the website in three languages, and reach buyers in Syria, Turkey, and the Gulf.

5. Receive the price safely

• Do not agree to transfer ownership before receiving or clearly guaranteeing the price.
• A deposit documented by a contract upon agreement, and the remainder upon transfer of ownership.
• Use reliable transfer channels, and document each amount with a receipt.
• Follow up yourself: Request copies of the contract and registration statement after transferring ownership.

6. Duty and taxes

The sale of real estate in Syria is subject to taxes and fees calculated in accordance with the applicable laws and the estimated value of the property, in addition to transaction fees and attorney or office fees. Ask about the full cost in advance and agree in writing who pays for each item.

Warning signs

• Someone who requests a public agency to “make things easier.”
• A buyer wants to transfer ownership immediately and postpone payment.
• Broker refuses to sign a written agreement on commission and price.

Do you want to sell your property in Syria? Contact our team in Syria to evaluate and display the property, and view the Syrian properties offered to know the market prices. Read also: How to check the taboo in Syria.

This article is for awareness purposes and is not a substitute for consulting a lawyer. Procedures and fees in Syria are subject to change.