Condominium buyer's checklist

1. 1

   Confirm who actually owns the unit

   Ask for the allocation contract with the Addis Ababa housing administration and the seller's ID. The names must match. If someone is selling on behalf of the winner, ask for a registered power of attorney (wukilina) and check it is still valid.

2. 2

   Check the title deed (karta)

   Ask whether a title deed has been issued and transferred to the seller. A unit without a transferred title is usually sold through a power of attorney, which is riskier — have a lawyer review it before you pay anything.

3. 3

   Ask about resale restrictions

   Lottery units can carry a period during which resale is not allowed, and the rules have changed over time. Confirm the current position for this unit with the sub-city housing office.

4. 4

   Get the CBE loan statement

   Most condos carry a Commercial Bank of Ethiopia loan. Ask the seller for an up-to-date statement of the remaining balance and any arrears, and agree in writing whether you take over the loan or the seller clears it before transfer.

5. 5

   Check other unpaid bills

   Ask for receipts for water, electricity and the condominium association (mahber) fees. Unpaid bills can follow the unit to the new owner.

6. 6

   Match the unit to the documents

   Site, block, floor and unit number on the documents must match the flat you visited. Check water supply days, the lift (if any), parking and the shared areas.

7. 7

   Sign and pay safely

   Sign the sale at the Documents Authentication and Registration office, and pay by bank transfer — never hand over the full amount in cash before signing. Keep every receipt.

8. 8

   Register the transfer

   Complete the change of ownership with the housing administration and, once the title is issued, with the land registry. Ask your lawyer for the current list of documents.

This guide is general information, not legal advice. Rules change — consult a lawyer before you pay.