Can I buy land without conducting an official search?
You can enter into discussions with a seller, but relying solely on the seller's documents is risky. An official search should be part of due diligence before completing any transaction.
Confirm the identity of the person or company selling the land, and that they have the legal right to sell it, whether as the registered owner, or someone with proper written authority to act on the owner's behalf.
Check that the title documents are genuine and match the land being sold, including the certificate of title or letter of offer, and the parcel details.
An official search at the relevant land registry confirms current ownership and reveals anything not visible on the documents the seller has shown you.
Visit the land in person, confirm its boundaries match the documents, and check for existing occupants or structures.
Confirm what the land is zoned or permitted for, so your intended use is actually allowed.
Look for existing mortgages, caveats, or disputes registered against the land that could affect your ownership.
Put the agreed terms in writing, ideally reviewed by a lawyer, before any money changes hands.
Complete the formal transfer process so the land is registered in your name.