Can a foreigner buy here?
Foreigners cannot hold freehold (Hak Milik). Use Hak Pakai (Right to Use, up to 80 years) or Leasehold (Hak Sewa, typically 25–30 years renewable). Nominee structures are illegal and risky.
Title structures
- Personal name vs. company holding
- Joint ownership and inheritance implications
- Power of attorney when buying remotely
Title verification
Always verify the title is clean: no mortgages, no encumbrances, no pending litigation, and that the seller is the registered owner. An independent lawyer (not the seller''s lawyer, not the agent''s lawyer) should run this check before you transfer any money.
Red flags
Walk away if anyone pressures you to skip title checks, pay in cash, or sign documents in a language you cannot read without a sworn translator.
Key takeaways
- Use an independent lawyer, never the seller's.
- Verify title is clean before paying any deposit.
- Understand restrictions on foreign ownership in this market.
- Decide personal vs. company ownership early — it affects tax.
- If buying remotely, use a notarised, limited power of attorney.
Ready to test what you learned?