PROPERTY GUIDE
Property Acquisition Due-Diligence Checklist
A structured review helps buyers identify missing information, deferred costs and risks before conditions expire.
Start with the financial record: rent roll, leases, deposits, arrears, operating statements, property taxes, utilities, insurance and capital expenditures. Compare reported income and expenses with bank records, invoices and lease obligations where appropriate.
Legal and physical review
Review title, liens, easements, surveys, zoning, permitted use, open permits and outstanding notices with qualified advisers. Arrange the inspections appropriate to the property, which may include building, roof, structure, mechanical, electrical, plumbing and environmental reviews. Price identified repairs and distinguish immediate work from longer-term capital needs.
Market, financing and closing
Compare rents, vacancy and recent sales. Confirm financing conditions, valuation assumptions, insurance availability and closing adjustments. Track every requested item, responsible person, due date, document and unresolved issue in one place so the decision is based on complete information.