Property buying checklist for Sibu and Kuching

Start with facts that can be checked: the exact address, property type, asking price, land tenure, title or lot reference where available, land and built-up size, bedrooms, bathrooms, furnishing and vacant-possession date. Ask whether there are known defects, renovations without approval, outstanding charges, restrictions or existing tenancies.

Verify who is selling. The seller's full legal name and appropriate identifying or company registration details should match the sale documents, or an appointed agent should have written authority. Do not transfer money to an unrelated personal account. Keep every offer, receipt, bank record and written condition.

Budget beyond the advertised price. Ask professionals about financing, valuation, legal fees, stamp duty, taxes, insurance, utility deposits, maintenance charges and any outstanding amounts that must be settled. Do not rely solely on a social-media post or verbal promise.

Before signing an offer, booking form or sale and purchase agreement, make sure it states the parties, full property description, price, deposit, payment milestones, conditions, deadline, included fixtures or furniture, vacant-possession arrangement and what happens if either party does not complete. Read every clause and obtain independent legal or financial advice where needed.

Inspect the property again before final handover. Record meter readings, keys, access cards and condition with dated photos. This guide helps you prepare questions; it is not a substitute for legal, financial or title verification.

Before paying a booking fee, obtain the written terms, the recipient of the payment and the intended next step. Ask the relevant professional to explain title, tenure, restrictions, outstanding charges, defects and any approvals that matter to the purchase. Keep every viewing note, quotation, payment receipt and signed document together; never rely on a verbal promise for a material property term.