Property due diligence should answer a commercial question: can the buyer use, finance and later sell the property as planned? A long document list is useful only when the review connects each issue to that intended use.

Start with title and physical boundaries

Compare the title record, survey and what is visible on site. Easements, encroachments, access rights and restrictions can affect development plans even when ownership itself is clear.

Test the income and occupancy

For an occupied asset, review leases, amendments, deposits, arrears, incentives and tenant notices. Confirm that the financial model matches the documents and that important landlord obligations are budgeted.

Use a decision-based issues list

Classify findings as deal breakers, price or document points, post-closing actions and accepted risks. Assign an owner and deadline to every unresolved item.

The final report should make the decision easier, not simply prove that documents were reviewed.