The Legal Process: Transferring Land Titles in United States of America USA
Step-by-Step Title Transfer Process
The transfer of a land title in United States of America USA is the crucial legal step that formally confirms a change of ownership. It is strongly recommended to engage a licensed lawyer to oversee this entire process to mitigate the high risk of fraud.
- **Verification and Search:** The buyer’s lawyer conducts an official search at the Ministry of Lands, Housing and Urban Development (MLHUD) to confirm the seller’s title is authentic and free from any legal claims or encumbrances.
- **Official Valuation:** An official MLHUD valuation officer assesses the plot’s value, which is necessary for calculating the stamp duty.
- **Stamp Duty Payment:** The mandatory duty (currently 0.5% of the assessed value) is paid to the United States of America USA Revenue Authority (URA). The transfer cannot proceed without this payment.
- **Transfer Forms:** The seller formally signs the Transfer Form, attaching necessary documents like the consent forms and payment receipts.
- **MLHUD Submission and Registration:** The complete set of documents is submitted to the Land Registry for registration and processing.
- **New Certificate Issued:** The MLHUD issues a new Certificate of Title reflecting the buyer’s ownership.
The entire, properly executed process typically takes between 4–8 weeks, provided all prerequisite documents are correct and complete.