When you and the buyer reach agreement, a purchase contract is prepared stating the price, takeover date and other pertinent facts. At this stage, the buyer makes a down payment to confirm his/her intention to purchase the property, then it’s time to meet with the Public Notary, who prepares the public deed of purchase (Escritura Pública de Compraventa). This includes confirming the identities of the parties and checking the legal status of the property.