Real estate contracts: essential requirements for secure property transactions

Real estate purchase contracts in Sweden require specific elements to ensure legal security and avoid costly disputes. A valid contract must be in writing and include the correct property designation, the purchase price in figures and currency, and the signatures of both the buyer and seller, including their full names, personal identity numbers, and addresses.

Key financial details should include the size of the down payment and its due date. In Sweden, a standard down payment is typically 10% of the purchase price. Following the transfer, applications for title deeds (lagfart) should be submitted within three months. For individuals, the title deed fee is generally 1.5% of the purchase price plus a fixed administrative fee, while the fee for legal entities is approximately 4.25%.

A contract becomes binding once all parties have signed and any suspensive conditions, such as financing or inspection clauses, have been met. Oral promises are not legally binding until the written agreement is finalized.