Owning your dream home is a major milestone, especially if you financed it with a Pag-IBIG housing loan.
But getting the loan is just the beginning.
To legally own your property, you need to transfer the title to your name.
This step protects your investment and makes your ownership official.
Title transfer is for buyers who want complete ownership of their home—whether it’s a lot, house and lot, or a condominium unit.
It shields you from future disputes and gives you legal proof that the property is yours.
While the process involves costs like taxes and registration fees, these are necessary to finalize your ownership.
Think of it as the last step in making your home truly yours.
Who Needs This?
This service is perfect for anyone who:
- Bought a home using a Pag-IBIG housing loan.
- Wants to take care of the title transfer themselves.
- Prefers to avoid extra costs by skipping third-party services.
If you’re excited about moving into your new home and want to get the legal work done right, this is for you.
Step 1: Get the Certificate Authorizing Registration (CAR)
The CAR is a document from the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) that allows the title transfer process to proceed.
Here’s how to get it:
- Prepare Your Documents:
- Deed of Absolute Sale (DOAS).
- Loan and Mortgage Agreement (LMA).
- Proof of payment for Documentary Stamp Tax (DST) and Capital Gains Tax (CGT).
- Pay the Necessary Taxes:
- Head to the designated bank (usually Land Bank) to settle the DST and CGT.
- Keep the official receipts safe.
- Request the CAR:
- Submit the DOAS, LMA, and tax payment receipts to the BIR office.
- Wait for the issuance of the CAR.
Tip: Organize your documents neatly to avoid delays during this step.
Step 2: Transfer the Title at the Registry of Deeds (RD)
Once you have the CAR, you can proceed to the RD to update the title under your name.
Follow these steps:
- Submit Required Documents:
- Bring the CAR, DOAS, LMA, and tax receipts.
- Include a copy of the BIR Certificate of Payment.
- Settle Fees:
- Pay the transfer tax and registration fees, which vary depending on the property’s location and value.
- Request a New Title:
- Ask the RD to issue a new title with your name on it.
- Check that all annotations related to the Pag-IBIG loan are properly recorded.
- Get Certified Copies:
- Request copies of the new title for your records and to submit to Pag-IBIG.
Step 3: Update the Tax Declaration
After transferring the title, visit the local Assessor’s Office to update the property tax records.
Steps to Follow:
- Bring Your Documents:
- Present the new title under your name.
- Show receipts for transfer tax and registration fees.
- Pay Any Fees:
- There might be minimal charges for updating the Tax Declaration.
- Secure the New Tax Declaration:
- Request copies of the updated Tax Declaration for your personal records and for submission to Pag-IBIG.
This step is crucial for keeping your property taxes accurate and under your name.
Final Step: Complete Pag-IBIG Requirements
Head back to the Pag-IBIG office to finalize the process.
Submit the updated documents, including:
- The new title.
- The updated Tax Declaration.
- A copy of the CAR and tax receipts.
This step ascertains that your loan records are complete and aligns everything with Pag-IBIG.
Tips for a Smooth Process
- Double-Check Requirements:
- Before visiting any office, confirm you have all necessary documents.
- Prepare Your Budget:
- Include fees for taxes, registration, and other incidental expenses like photocopying.
- Stay Organized:
- Use folders or envelopes to keep all papers in order.
- Clearly label each set of documents.
- Start Early:
- Arriving at offices early in the day can save you time and long waits.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How long does the title transfer process take?
The timeline varies depending on factors like the completeness of your documents and the processing time of the BIR, Registry of Deeds, and Assessor’s Office. On average, it can take 2 to 3 months. To avoid delays, ensure all requirements are complete before starting the process. - What are the typical costs involved in a title transfer?
The costs include Documentary Stamp Tax (1.5% of the property price), Capital Gains Tax (6% of the property price), transfer tax (approximately 0.5%-0.75% of the property price, depending on the location), and registration fees. Budget for these in advance, as they are required at different stages. - Can I transfer the title myself, or do I need assistance?
You can handle the process yourself if you’re willing to visit the offices involved and submit the necessary documents. However, you may also hire a professional (e.g., a lawyer or processor) for convenience, although this will add to your costs. - What happens if I don’t transfer the title immediately?
Delaying the title transfer may lead to complications, such as penalties or difficulties in proving ownership. It’s best to complete the process as soon as possible to secure your legal rights to the property.
Final Thoughts
Transferring a property title can feel like a marathon, but it’s a meaningful step toward owning your home.
Every signature and every document brings you closer to full ownership and peace of mind.
Think of this process as an investment in your future—a task that’s as important as the dream home it represents.
Your efforts now will pay off when you hold that title in your hands, knowing that your home truly belongs to you.
You’ve got this.