When does the transfer of ownership in real estate occur?

The transfer of ownership in real estate occurs at the signing of the act of sale. This legal document formally finalizes the transaction between the buyer and the seller, indicating that the buyer is now the legal owner of the property. The act of sale is registered in the land registry, providing public notice of the new ownership. Until this document is signed, the ownership remains with the seller, regardless of events like the buyer's payment or visits to the property.

While payment is an essential component of the transaction, it does not itself constitute the transfer of ownership; rather, it is the execution of the act of sale that formally changes the ownership status. Additionally, a buyer's visit to the property or a seller's advertisement does not impact the legal transfer of ownership in any way. Therefore, the act of sale is the definitive moment in which ownership is officially transferred.