What Is the Certificate of Tradition and Freedom?
The
Certificate of Tradition and Freedom (
Certificado de Tradición y Libertad) is one of the most important legal documents in Colombian real estate. Issued by the
Superintendencia de Notariado y Registro, it serves as the official history of a property. Think of it as the property’s ID card—showing ownership history, legal status, and any restrictions or liens.
Whether you’re buying property in bustling
Medellín or tranquil
Pereira, this certificate is a non-negotiable part of due diligence.
Why Is It Essential for Buyers?
Protecting Your Investment
For foreign investors, the Colombian market offers great opportunities—but also legal complexity. Without reviewing this certificate, buyers risk unknowingly purchasing property with legal encumbrances, unresolved debts, or even ownership disputes.
At
EVERYPLACE, we ensure that every property listed on our
for-sale page has a clean and verifiable history. We handle this process transparently so you’re never left guessing.
Verifying the Seller’s Legitimacy
The certificate confirms that the person selling the property is legally allowed to do so. If the name on the deed doesn’t match the seller’s ID, it’s a red flag—and we catch it before you get involved.
What Does the Certificate Contain?
The certificate provides a detailed timeline of the property’s legal journey. Key details include:
- Current and previous owners
- Legal restrictions or encumbrances (e.g., liens, mortgages)
- Property boundaries and size
- Judicial rulings or disputes
- Notarial records of purchase or sale
This document tells a full story—one that can reveal red flags early.
How to Obtain a Certificate in Colombia
You can request the certificate through the Colombian government’s online portal or visit a local registry office. However, for non-Spanish speakers or those unfamiliar with local bureaucracy, it can be time-consuming.
EVERYPLACE simplifies this. As part of our
property management services, we handle the entire documentation process for both buyers and owners, ensuring everything is current and correct.
Risks of Not Reviewing the Certificate
Skipping this step—or trusting a seller who “promises” everything is fine—can lead to:
- Purchasing a property with hidden debts
- Becoming involved in unresolved inheritance claims
- Facing delays or loss during registration
- Legal battles over ownership
These are avoidable with the right guidance. That’s why every investment through EVERYPLACE begins with full documentation checks.
How EVERYPLACE Helps You Navigate This Step
Our mission goes beyond transactions—we act as your local partner in Colombia. From selecting
long-term rentals in Medellín to finalizing high-value purchases, we’re with you every step of the way.
Here’s how we help:
- Review and verify all legal documents
- Coordinate with notaries and registries
- Translate and explain documents in plain language
- Ensure full transparency before you sign anything
If you’re exploring real estate in Colombia, we invite you to browse our curated
properties for sale or even test out the market with a
short-term rental.
Meta Description:
Understand the Certificate of Tradition and Freedom in Colombia and why it’s crucial for safe real estate purchases.
