How to Transfer a Land Title After Selling Your Property in the Philippines?

Geneva Rose Morata
Jul 21
3 min read

Updated: Jul 24

Transferring a land title might sound complicated, but it's a crucial step to ensure your property sale is legally binding and recognized. Whether you're selling a property you’ve owned for years or processing an inherited property, following the proper process helps secure a clean, conflict-free title.

What is a Land Title Transfer?

Think of a land title as a passport for your property - it proves who owns it. Now,

transferring a land title means changing that ownership for a seller or deceased loved one.

Close-up view of a notary stamp on a document

How to Transfer a Land Title?

Transferring a land title is an essential step in formalizing property ownership. When you are selling a property, it's important to understand the legal process involved to ensure hassle-free transactions. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you through the land title transfer process in the Philippines.

1. Gather the Required Documents

The first step in transferring a land title is collecting necessary documents. Getting organized helps you demonstrate the legality of the sale without delays. Required documents include:

Notarized Deed of Absolute Sale (DOAS)
Owner’s Copy of the Title (TCT or CCT)
Latest Tax Declaration
Real Property Tax Clearance
Transfer Tax Receipt
Electronic Certificate Authorizing Registration (eCAR) from the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR)
Valid IDs and Tax Identification Numbers (TIN) of both buyer and seller

2. Settle tax obligations and fees

Capital Gains Tax: A tax on the profit earned from the sale of the property, calculated based on the selling price or fair market value, whichever is higher.
Documentary Stamp Tax: A tax imposed on the document or instrument evidencing the sale or transfer.
Transfer Tax: A local government tax imposed on the transfer of real property ownership, paid at the local Treasurer’s Office.

3. Get the eCAR from the BIR

Upon submission of complete documents and proof of tax payments, the BIR will issue the eCAR. You’ll be needing this to proceed with the title transfer.

4. Submit Documents to the Registry of Deeds

Bring your notarized Deed of Sale, eCAR, owner’s copy of the title, tax clearance, and other supporting documents to the Registry of Deeds. Processing the transfer will result in the cancellation of the old title and the issuance of a new one in the heir’s name.

5. Update the Tax Declaration

Due diligence in action!

Land transfers after a sale is more than just a procedural task - it’s a legal obligation that requires preparation, accuracy, and due diligence. While the process may seem easy on paper, delays can happen. It often arises from overlooked documents, unpaid taxes or unresolved estate taxes. As a seller, proactive preparation is key. Verify the property’s tax status, settle all necessary taxes, and ensure all supporting documents are complete and accurate before turning over the property to the buyer.

READ: You may refer to our related articles for more information:

– Estate Settlement Made Simple: A Practical Guide for Filipino Families

– Navigating BIR Tax Amnesty: A Lifeline for Filipino Taxpayers

– Simplifying Estate Settlement: A Guide to Extrajudicial Settlement in the Philippines

– Simplified Guide to Using an Affidavit of Self-Adjudication for Estate Settlement in the Philippines

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