2024 07 8 min readLegal Guide

Hurghada Property Due Diligence — The Complete Checklist

Due diligence is the process of verifying everything about a property before committing to purchase. In Hurghada, where you are buying in a foreign country and often remotely, thorough due diligence is essential. This guide gives you the complete checklist.

Developer Due Diligence

Before committing to any developer: 1. Check their track record — how many projects have they completed, and were they delivered on time? 2. Visit at least one completed project in person or have a trusted local inspect it. 3. Research the developer on Google, TripAdvisor, Facebook expat groups, and Trustpilot for international developers. 4. Check they are registered with the Egyptian Real Estate Developers Association. 5. Verify the building permit (tasrih) is issued before paying any money.

Title Deed Due Diligence

Your lawyer should check: the Title Deed (Tabu) is clean with no encumbrances, liens, or mortgages. The seller (developer or private) has the legal right to sell. The land registration is consistent with the property being sold. For off-plan: the developer legally owns the land the building will be constructed on.

Contract Due Diligence

Key contract points to verify: exact property description (unit number, floor, size), completion date with penalty clause for delays, total price with no hidden fees, specification of finishes and materials, what happens if developer defaults, your right to the Title Deed on full payment.

Physical Due Diligence

For existing properties: inspect for damp, structural cracks, plumbing issues, electrical safety. Check water pressure. Verify air conditioning is functional. Confirm pool is operational and chemically maintained. For off-plan: inspect similar completed units by the same developer.

Service Charge Due Diligence

Obtain the current service charge schedule in writing. Check for any arrears in the building's maintenance fund. Understand exactly what the charge covers. Ask what it has been historically and whether increases are anticipated.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most important due diligence check when buying in Hurghada?+
Verifying the developer's track record and the building permit are the two most critical checks. An independent lawyer should also verify the Title Deed chain.
Can I do due diligence remotely from the UK?+
Yes — an independent Egyptian lawyer can handle legal due diligence remotely. Physical inspection can be done by a trusted local representative or our team.

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