Below is a general step‐by‐step outline and typical timeframe for transferring a land title after you have received the BIR Certificate Authorizing Registration (CAR) in the Philippines. Note that processing times vary by local government units (LGUs) and Register of Deeds offices, so use this as a rough guide rather than an absolute schedule.
1. Pay Transfer Taxes at the Local Treasurer’s Office
- What to Do: Once you have the BIR CAR, bring it (plus the Deed of Sale and other required documents) to the LGU to pay the local transfer tax.
- Processing Time: Usually 1 to 3 business days, though some LGUs can take up to a week or more to assess and process the payment.
2. Secure the Transfer Tax Receipt and Tax Clearance
- What to Do: You’ll receive official receipts and/or a certificate acknowledging payment of transfer tax. You may also need a tax clearance certificate from the local assessor’s or treasurer’s office.
- Processing Time: Often same day or within a couple of days, depending on the volume of transactions.
3. Submit Documents to the Register of Deeds (RD)
- What to Do: Prepare a complete set of documents (including the BIR CAR, Deed of Sale, transfer tax receipt, tax clearance, and other required documents such as IDs) for filing at the Register of Deeds.
- Processing Time: Initial intake is typically done on the same day. However, you need to pay the corresponding registration fees based on the property’s value and the Register of Deeds will officially log your documents for processing.
4. Wait for the New Title to be Processed
- What Happens: The Register of Deeds examines and processes the documents. If everything is in order, they will cancel the seller’s title (or annotate it, in some cases) and issue a new title in the buyer’s name.
- Processing Time: This step can range from 1 to 4 weeks (sometimes longer if there are backlogs or additional verifications needed). Metropolitan areas with higher volume can experience more delays.
5. Pick Up Your New Transfer Certificate of Title (TCT) or Condominium Certificate of Title (CCT)
- What to Do: Once notified, you or your representative can retrieve the new title from the Register of Deeds. Ensure you bring valid ID and the claim stub.
- Processing Time: The actual release can often be done the same day you receive notice.
6. Update Records with the Local Assessor’s Office
- What to Do: With the new TCT/CCT in hand, visit the assessor’s office to update their records under the new owner’s name.
- Processing Time: Typically a day or two, depending on local requirements.
Overall Estimated Timeline
- Minimum: About 2 to 3 weeks if everything is in perfect order, and if you can handle each step promptly with no backlogs.
- Typical: 4 to 8 weeks when factoring in LGU schedules, potential backlogs, and coordination among parties.
Important Reminders
Check Local Requirements
Each city or municipality may require extra documentation (e.g., tax clearance, barangay certificate, notarized forms, special power of attorney if someone is representing you, etc.).Stay Organized
Keep multiple copies of all documents. Missing or incomplete paperwork often leads to delays.Monitor Deadlines
You generally have deadlines to pay local transfer taxes and to submit the documents after the CAR is issued. Missing deadlines may result in penalties or surcharges.Consult Professionals
If you are unfamiliar with the process, it might be more efficient to use a representative (e.g., a lawyer, liaison officer, or broker) experienced in local title transfers.
By planning for these steps and being proactive with document requirements, you can minimize delays and ensure your title transfer is completed as smoothly as possible.