FURTHER EXPLANATION · 2 MIN READ
A new guide to a familiar process
The official information sheet of 19 October 2026 outlines the purchase process. It is not new legislation, but a practical overview: finding a home, discussing financial options, agreeing arrangements and eventually signing the deed. Behind those visible steps lies a legal file. That is why agreeing a price is not the same as completing a purchase.
When viewing a home, space, light and renovation often come to mind first. Also prepare your own questions: exactly what are you buying, who will own it and which arrangements are essential to you? This lets you discuss expectations before committing rather than discovering them at the deed signing.
Align your offer with your financing
Discuss your budget with the bank beforehand. An accepted offer may be binding; it is not simply a non-binding reservation. Limit its validity and have important conditions drafted carefully. If financing is needed, seek advice before signing about an appropriate suspensive condition. Do not confuse an initial borrowing estimate with a final lending decision.
For example, you want certainty about your loan while also starting to paint before the deed is signed. These are separate issues. The financing condition must be legally sound, while early access needs separate arrangements. Write down your wishes and have them considered together, including risk and insurance.
Why preparation continues after the sale agreement
In a private sale, the sale agreement is generally followed by a notarial deed. The notary’s office carries out the necessary searches and examines the legal position. Incomplete information can raise further questions. Supply requested documents promptly and report changes to arrangements immediately so that the deed is prepared on the same basis.
The loan file must also be ready. A mortgage loan generally requires a credit deed, often signed around the same time as the purchase deed. A preferred moving date is therefore different from a confirmed signing date. Coordinate practical arrangements once the file has progressed sufficiently.
Keys, protection and practical help
Keys are often handed over when the deed is signed, but the parties may agree otherwise. Record this clearly. After signing, the purchase is transcribed at the Legal Security Office: this public recording protects your right against third parties. You can later consult your notarial deed digitally through Izimi.
Notariaat Wellens can assess your offer and agreement, request missing information and help coordinate matters with your bank. If buying together, also discuss who needs protection. Bring your draft, loan information and questions so that the purchase, financing and personal arrangements can be prepared together.