Process for Obtaining a Land Title from a Tax Declaration

Understanding the Basics A Tax Declaration is a document used by local governments to determine property taxes. It serves as proof of ownership for taxation but doesn’t establish legal ownership. On the other hand, a Transfer Certificate of Title (TCT) is a legal document that signifies ownership of a real estate property.

Steps to Convert Tax Declaration to TCT:

1. Gather Necessary Documents: Original Tax Declaration Deed of Sale or any document proving ownership Identification documents Proof of payment of real estate taxes

2. Verify Requirements: Visit the local assessor’s office or the Land Registration Authority (LRA) to confirm the specific requirements for the conversion process. Each jurisdiction might have its own set of rules.

3. Secure a Certified True Copy of Tax Declaration: Get an official, certified copy of the Tax Declaration from the Assessor’s Office.

4. Prepare Affidavit of Ownership: Create an Affidavit of Ownership, stating details about the property, acquisition, and declaration of intent to transfer to TCT.

5. Obtain Tax Clearance and Certificates: Secure tax clearance and certificates from the local treasurer’s office, indicating that all property taxes have been paid.

6. File an Application for Conversion: Submit the required documents, including the certified copy of Tax Declaration, Affidavit of Ownership, tax clearances, and other necessary certificates to the Registry of Deeds.

7. Pay Necessary Fees: Pay the required fees for the conversion process. Fees vary depending on the location and value of the property.

8. Process Verification: The Registry of Deeds will review the submitted documents and verify the authenticity and completeness of the application.

9. Issuance of Transfer Certificate of Title (TCT): Once the application is approved, a new Transfer Certificate of Title will be issued in your name, signifying your legal ownership of the property.

Important Considerations: Legal Assistance: Seek legal advice or hire a real estate lawyer to guide you through the process, ensuring compliance with local laws and regulations. Accuracy and Completeness: Ensure all documents are accurate, complete, and properly notarized to avoid delays in the process. Converting a Tax Declaration to a Transfer Certificate of Title is a significant legal procedure that establishes your rightful ownership of a property. It’s crucial to navigate this process diligently, following the necessary steps and meeting the requirements set by the local government authorities.

Always double-check with local government offices or legal experts for the most accurate and updated information regarding this conversion process as regulations might vary across different regions.

2 Comments

Herminia V. Masagca on May 20, 2024 at 10:58 am

The land sold by legal heirs in 2018, but in DENR record, somebody applied for
title in 1990. This person is not one of the children of the deceased owner. DENR required us the buyer to secure waiver from that person who could not be found anymore. What should be done? Reply

Benedict P. Cagaanan on May 21, 2024 at 4:53 pm

Hi! May i request clarification on the process of buying a property. I am buying a small house and lot in a subdivision in san pedro, laguna. The owner is a family friend. although may EJS na sila (their father passed away years ago pero last year lang nila naasikaso ang EJS dahil yung 2 anak ay based na abroad (US and Canada) kaya na-delay nila asikasuhin ang EJS). Yan din ang reason kaya binebenta na nila ang property sa san pedro, laguna dahil sa abroad na silang magkapatid. Yung 84 yo Mother na lang nila ang naiwan dito sa Pinas, ngunit sa Iloilo na nakatira. Although naayos nila ang EJS last year, unfortunately they failed to file for the new TCT with the EJS. Tanong ko lang po: Is it possible for me to apply the TCT under my name after the sale of the property with only EJS and Deed of Absolute Sale? Hindi na nila kasi maasikaso ang TCT nila dahil magastos kung babalik pa silang dalawa dito sa pinas and mahirap for them na magsabay mag leave from their work since magkaibang country sila. Hoping for your immediate response. thank you very much! Reply