Who's on the Deed, and Who Has the Right to Decide?
- martin teo
- Dec 20, 2025
- 2 min read
Updated: Jan 5
The name on the land deed determines who has the right to dispose of the land. If the deed is in the father's name, only the father can decide whether to sell. Only the father himself, or an agent or lawyer explicitly authorized in writing by the father, can handle the sale on his behalf. Children, spouses, relatives, or friends cannot make decisions or sign contracts on behalf of the father without authorization.
Real-Life Example of Misunderstanding
I once encountered a real case: a son wanted to sell "his" land, and a buyer was found. Only after checking the deed did we discover that the land belonged to his father. As a result, the father clearly stated that he had no intention of selling, and the transaction had to be canceled. Such misunderstandings waste time and can potentially lead to legal risks.
My Working Principle
My working principle is very clear: I must directly contact the true landowner listed on the deed. Only after confirming their identity and obtaining explicit written authorization from the landowner will I begin any marketing or negotiation. This is a matter of respect for property rights and responsibility to both the buyer and seller.
Requirements to Avoid Disputes
To avoid disputes, I insist on the following requirements:
Meet with the landowner listed on the land title deed or verify their identity in an equivalent manner (identity card/passport must match the land title information).
Written authorization is required if handled by a representative. This must be signed by the landowner and specify the authorizing party, authorized party, scope of authorization, and duration. Witnessing by a lawyer or notary may be necessary.
For properties jointly owned by multiple owners, the consent of all owners is required. Alternatively, a complete authorization must be provided according to their shares, bylaws, and legal requirements.
All key documents must be filed in writing to ensure verifiability and traceability.
Benefits of Clear Authorization
The benefits of doing so are direct:
Protecting the landowner's rights and preventing them from being "held hostage" by improper promises.
Protecting the buyer and preventing invalid contracts or subsequent disputes.
Improving transaction efficiency and reducing repetition and misunderstandings.
Importance of Clear Property Rights
Property rights must be clearly defined, and authorization must be clearly stated. Respecting the name on the land title deed ensures that every transaction is legal, secure, and smooth.
If you are the landowner on the land title deed or have prepared a formal authorization, we are happy to assist you in assessing and promoting your land. Regulations may vary in different regions. Please refer to local laws and contracts for specific details. Consult a professional lawyer if necessary.
Conclusion
Understanding who has the right to decide on a property is crucial. The name on the deed is not just a formality; it is a legal declaration of ownership. Misunderstandings can lead to wasted time and potential legal issues. Therefore, I emphasize the importance of clear communication and proper documentation in every transaction.
By following these guidelines, we can ensure that all parties involved are protected and that the process runs smoothly. If you have any questions or need assistance, feel free to reach out.




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