China – Buying Property

Can foreign nationals legally buy and own property in China?

China’s sustained urban growth and expanding real estate sector have drawn considerable international attention, and the short answer is that overseas nationals may purchase property there — though a set of meaningful conditions and carefully calibrated regulations governs how this works in practice.

Under Chinese law, the state retains ownership of all land, which means that individuals and companies can only hold a right to use the land, even though they may own the buildings constructed on it. Property ownership in China is therefore structured around a leasehold framework rather than freehold title. Residential land use rights are ordinarily granted for a term of 70 years, after which renewal is available under existing legislation. This stands in clear contrast to markets like Australia or the United Kingdom, where freehold ownership conveys permanent and absolute title to the land itself.

Before being eligible to buy residential property, foreign nationals must as a general rule have resided, worked, or studied in China for no less than one year. This requirement is intended to tie property ownership to genuine local presence rather than purely speculative activity. Foreign individuals are ordinarily restricted to purchasing one residential property, which must serve as their personal home rather than a rental or commercial asset.

Requirements also differ across cities: buyers in Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Shenzhen must have been employed locally for at least one year, whereas in Beijing, Hangzhou, and Wuhan, employment in the city is sufficient without any specific minimum duration. The authorities in Nanjing and Suzhou have gone further still, eliminating restrictions on foreign property purchases entirely.

Certain groups benefit from exemptions or more favourable treatment: holders of China’s permanent residence status may acquire additional properties and access lower down payment thresholds and preferential mortgage terms; some high-skilled visa categories may qualify after a reduced residency period of six months; and foreign-invested enterprises may hold broader entitlements to acquire commercial real estate and industrial premises under their applicable business authorisations.

Foreign buyers of new-build properties must verify that a valid permit authorising sale to non-Chinese nationals is in place. For resale transactions, they must confirm whether the relevant local National Security Bureau will approve the purchase.

The principal regulatory authority is the Ministry of Housing and Urban-Rural Development (MOHURD), which sets and administers housing policy across China. Questions relating to land use rights should be directed to the Ministry of Natural Resources.

What are average property prices in China, and how do they vary by region?

Figures published by China’s National Bureau of Statistics place the national average residential property price at approximately 9,527 RMB per square metre in December 2025, marginally below the preceding month’s reading. At prevailing exchange rates, this translates to roughly USD $1,300 per square metre, though actual prices differ dramatically across China’s enormous and diverse territory.

Measured against household earnings, property prices in the country’s major urban centres — most prominently Shanghai, Beijing, Guangzhou, and Shenzhen — are exceptionally high even by the standards of local residents. Premium districts in first-tier cities routinely fetch 50,000 to over 100,000 RMB per square metre, placing them in the same bracket as central London or Manhattan when assessed by price-to-income ratios.

Looking at year-on-year movements among major cities as of early 2026, price declines persisted in Beijing (−2.3%), Guangzhou (−5.1%), Shenzhen (−5.5%), Chongqing (−3.8%), and Tianjin (−4.2%). Shanghai stood apart as the sole major market recording growth, with home prices rising 4.2%.

Second-tier cities including Chengdu, Hangzhou, Nanjing, and Xi’an occupy a middle ground, with prices generally spanning 15,000 to 35,000 RMB per square metre depending on location and property type. Third- and fourth-tier cities and rural localities are substantially more affordable, frequently below 8,000 RMB per square metre, though these markets tend to offer weaker liquidity and limited resale prospects.

Leisure and resort destinations such as Sanya on Hainan Island and Lijiang show wide price variation tied to proximity to tourist amenities and infrastructure. Prospective buyers should consult current listings on established portals such as Fang.com or Lianjia and cross-reference data with the National Bureau of Statistics of China, as pricing can shift sharply in response to policy announcements.

Where are the most popular locations to buy property in China?

Shanghai is the most internationally prominent property market and the preferred destination for overseas professionals. Its large and well-established expatriate community, world-class transport and services, internationally accredited schools, and robust rental demand driven by multinational corporations make it consistently attractive. Neighbourhoods such as Jing’an, Pudong, and the former French Concession are especially sought after by foreign buyers.

Beijing, as the country’s political and cultural centre, appeals to buyers who value proximity to government institutions, leading universities, and major cultural amenities. The Chaoyang district — which hosts numerous embassies and the headquarters of many international businesses — has traditionally been the focal point for foreign interest, though it commands some of the highest prices nationally.

Shenzhen draws technology sector professionals and investors who value its border with Hong Kong, fast-moving economy, and comparatively young demographic profile. Despite undergoing price corrections in recent years, it continues to attract strong domestic and international interest.

Sanya and Hainan Island are popular with buyers seeking a lifestyle or holiday property. The central government’s transformation of Hainan into a free-trade port has stimulated additional investment interest, and the island’s tropical setting appeals to both domestic vacationers and international residents seeking a warmer climate.

Chengdu and Chongqing have developed thriving expatriate communities, particularly among those employed in technology, manufacturing, and education. These cities offer a more unhurried pace of life than the eastern mega-cities, with greater affordability and steadily improving international connectivity via direct long-haul flights.

Are there any emerging or up-and-coming areas worth considering in China?

Hainan Free Trade Port continues to command widespread attention following the central government’s commitment to developing it into a globally competitive free-trade zone by 2025 and beyond. Accelerating infrastructure investment, reduced import tariffs, and active efforts to attract high-end tourism and international talent have established it as one of the most closely watched markets in the country.

Hangzhou, already home to major technology corporations including Alibaba, has seen the easing of restrictions on foreign buyers and sustained demand from the domestic tech workforce. Its comparatively lower price point relative to Shanghai, combined with fast high-speed rail connections to surrounding cities, makes it an appealing alternative for buyers working across the region.

Xi’an has gained momentum through its position as a key node along the Belt and Road Initiative and the growing volume of visitors drawn to its rich historical heritage. Residential prices remain well below the national first-tier average, and the city is the beneficiary of substantial municipal investment in infrastructure and urban development.

Greater Bay Area cities beyond Shenzhen — among them Zhuhai, Foshan, and Dongguan — are drawing increasing interest from buyers who have been priced out of Shenzhen and Guangzhou. The expansion of cross-delta transport links, including the Hong Kong–Zhuhai–Macao Bridge, has improved accessibility across the Pearl River Delta and made these cities more credible residential options.

What are the current trends in the property market in China?

New home prices across China’s 70 tracked cities fell by 3.2% year-on-year in February 2026, following a 3.1% decline the previous month — the thirty-second consecutive monthly contraction, a figure that illustrates the difficulty Beijing has faced in bringing the prolonged property sector downturn to an end.

New home sales continued to contract, though the rate of decline moderated compared with prior years. National Bureau of Statistics data shows that 814.5 million square metres of new residential property were sold nationally in 2024, a fall of 14.1% year-on-year.

The government has made public commitments to stabilise the property sector and improve the balance of housing supply. Measures under consideration include making more effective use of existing commodity housing inventory — including the direct purchase of unsold homes for conversion into government-subsidised affordable housing — as a means of reducing the surplus stock weighing on the market. Authorities have also signalled support for the development of higher-quality residential properties.

Price falls in first-tier cities began to slow, and some reported tentative signs of improved transaction activity, though the overall picture remains far removed from the levels seen before the market crisis took hold. A more durable and broad-based recovery is generally anticipated by analysts to emerge around late 2026 or early 2027.

As of 2025, no nationwide property tax covering all residential holdings is in force, though pilot schemes targeting higher-value properties operate in a handful of cities. The property tax framework remains at an early stage of development, with programmes running in Shanghai and Chongqing. A wider national rollout remains a background risk for long-term property holders.

For the most up-to-date market data, consult the National Bureau of Statistics of China alongside research publications from firms such as Savills, CBRE, and JLL, each of which produces regular analysis of the Chinese property market.

Is buying property in China a good investment?

The investment rationale for Chinese property has grown considerably more complex following several years of price weakness and a string of high-profile developer defaults. The rapid escalation of home values in earlier years accelerated the divergence of wealth between property owners and renters, while the heavy debt loads accumulated by real estate developers and Chinese households alike have introduced significant systemic risks to the financial system.

Annual rental growth in China exceeded 1.2% in the pre-pandemic era, but has slowed markedly and turned negative from early 2024. In their 2025 Chinese Real Estate Market Outlook, Savills analysts observed that “in recent years, rents have declined due to lower income expectations and the increase in government-subsidised housing supply,” conditions that have expanded the range of options available to tenants and strengthened their negotiating position.

Gross rental yields in major cities have typically run between 1.5% and 3% — below those achievable in comparable urban markets in Germany, the Netherlands, or Australia, where yields for similar properties tend to fall in the 3%–5% range. Capital appreciation has therefore historically been the primary justification for investment, and that driver is now facing significant headwinds.

China’s USD $50,000 annual personal foreign exchange limit demands careful advance planning for substantial property purchases. Available approaches include corporate-channel transfers, drawing on the individual quotas of family members, or securing a dedicated property purchase foreign exchange permit. Currency risk is a two-sided consideration: movements between the renminbi and a buyer’s home currency can influence both the effective cost of acquisition and the proceeds realised on eventual disposal when funds are converted back.

Shifts in Chinese legislation can affect foreign property owners retroactively. The regulatory environment is continuing to evolve, particularly with respect to foreign investment and national security considerations, and staying current requires ongoing professional advice. Property investment always involves risk, and conditions within China’s market are especially fluid at present. Independent financial guidance from a qualified adviser with specialist knowledge of the Chinese market is strongly recommended before committing to any purchase.

What types of property are commonly available to buy in China?

High-rise apartments represent by far the predominant property type available to buyers — domestic and foreign alike — throughout China’s cities. The vast majority of urban residential supply takes the form of large-scale apartment complexes, with unit sizes ranging from compact studios of around 40 sq m to generous apartments of 200 sq m or more in luxury developments. Gated residential compounds incorporating shared gardens, fitness facilities, and round-the-clock security are standard features of newer projects.

Villas and townhouses are found in the suburban fringes of major cities and in resort locations such as Hainan Island. These properties carry a premium and are most commonly encountered within purpose-built villa communities on the outskirts of cities including Shanghai, Beijing, and Chengdu. Fully detached villas exist but are relatively scarce in comparison to the volume of apartment stock.

Serviced apartments — fully furnished, hotel-style units managed by a professional operator — are available in the key business districts of major cities and appeal to short-term residents or those who prefer a managed living environment. These units are, however, frequently designated for commercial use and may fall outside the residential purchase rules that apply to foreign individual buyers.

Commercial property, encompassing offices and retail premises, may be acquired by foreign-invested enterprises under broader eligibility criteria than those governing individual residential purchases. Commercial land use rights are ordinarily granted for 40 to 50 years rather than the 70-year residential term. Rural and agricultural land is not accessible to private buyers under any circumstances — whether domestic or foreign — as it remains subject to collective ownership under Chinese law.

What is the typical step-by-step process for buying property in China?

The purchase process in China differs in important ways from those in markets such as the United States, United Kingdom, or Australia, particularly in the use of reservation deposits, the role of local government approvals, and the foreign exchange requirements that accompany large transactions. Notaries perform a significant administrative function, though they act as document authenticators rather than independent legal advisers — which is why engaging a separate qualified lawyer is essential.

1. Confirm eligibility. Verify that you satisfy the residency and documentation criteria applicable to the specific city in which you plan to purchase. You will need a valid passport, a work permit, and evidence of current residence. In Shanghai, for example, you will also be required to demonstrate at least one uninterrupted year of individual income tax or social security contribution payments.
2. Engage a licensed local agent and lawyer. Retaining a local agent is not a legal requirement but is highly beneficial: an experienced local professional can help you understand the market, confirm you meet all qualifying conditions, and identify suitable properties. Appoint a bilingual property lawyer simultaneously to begin due diligence work.
3. Search and view properties. Use established property portals such as Fang.com, Lianjia (Beike), or visit developer sales offices directly. When looking at new-build properties, foreign buyers must confirm that a valid permit allowing sale to non-Chinese nationals is in force.
4. Make an offer and pay a reservation deposit. Once terms are agreed, a reservation agreement (定金合同) is ordinarily signed and a deposit of between 1% and 3% of the agreed purchase price is paid to secure the property. Unlike in some other markets, this deposit is typically forfeited if the buyer withdraws without valid reason.
5. Conduct due diligence. Your lawyer should examine the property’s title certificate (不动产权证书), confirm the absence of outstanding mortgages, charges, or litigation, and verify that all relevant planning and construction permits are valid and current. Structural surveys are not a standard part of the Chinese process but may be commissioned separately and are advisable for older or resale properties.
6. Sign the purchase contract. Both parties execute the formal Sale and Purchase Agreement (买卖合同). For newly built properties this will be the developer’s standard form; for resale transactions a government-prescribed template applies. Your lawyer should review the full terms before you sign.
7. Obtain foreign exchange approval and transfer funds. China’s annual personal foreign exchange allowance of USD $50,000 requires advance planning when funding a property purchase. Available mechanisms include corporate-channel transfers, pooling the quotas of family members, or obtaining a dedicated property purchase foreign exchange permit. Funds are typically paid into an escrow account or directly to the developer.
8. Apply for government approval where required. Certain cities require the transaction to be reviewed and sanctioned by the relevant local government body, including a National Security Bureau check for resale transactions involving foreign purchasers.
9. Pay taxes and fees. From December 2024, revised deed tax rules for individuals purchasing a family home set the rate at 1% for properties up to 140 sq m, or 1.5% for those exceeding 140 sq m. For a second family home, the applicable rates are 1% below 140 sq m and 2% above that threshold. Stamp duty, agent fees, and any applicable VAT must also be discharged at this stage. Always confirm current rates with a local tax adviser or the State Taxation Administration.
10. Register the property. The title transfer is lodged with the local Natural Resources Bureau (自然资源局), which will issue a new Real Estate Title Certificate (不动产权证书) in the buyer’s name. Registration ordinarily takes between 10 and 30 working days. Legal ownership passes to the buyer only upon completion of this registration.

Do I need a lawyer to buy property in China, and how do I find a reputable one?

Instructing a lawyer is not compulsory under Chinese law when purchasing property, but it is very strongly recommended — especially for foreign buyers who must contend with city-specific regulations, foreign exchange controls, and contracts drafted entirely in Chinese. The legal and financial complexity inherent in a foreign property transaction in China makes professional legal and tax counsel essential before proceeding with any purchase.

A property lawyer in China will review the title certificate, check for encumbrances or third-party claims, advise on whether the transaction is legally permissible for a foreign buyer, prepare or scrutinise the Sale and Purchase Agreement, assist with the registration process, and help manage foreign exchange approvals. They will also liaise with notaries as required — notarisation being obligatory for certain documents, particularly overseas-issued materials such as passports, income evidence, and authorisation instruments, which must be notarised and in some cases apostilled before they may be relied upon in a Chinese property transaction.

Where an agent is involved in the sale and purchase, an agent’s fee becomes payable upon signing of the contract regardless of whether the transaction ultimately completes. The agent’s fee typically falls between 0.5% and 2.5% depending on local market conventions. Legal fees vary according to the firm and the complexity of the matter but generally range from RMB 5,000 to RMB 30,000 for a standard residential transaction as of 2025. Agree all fee arrangements in writing before formal engagement, and confirm current rates directly with your chosen firm.

All lawyers practising in China must hold a licence issued by the All China Lawyers Association (ACLA), the national body responsible for regulating the legal profession. A directory of licensed practitioners is available via the All China Lawyers Association website (www.acla.org.cn). International law firms with established China offices — including DLA Piper, Baker McKenzie, and Linklaters — also handle foreign buyer transactions and are able to provide services in multiple languages.

What are the most common pitfalls and problems expats encounter when buying property in China?

Proceeding without satisfying eligibility requirements. Some buyers attempt to work around the residency and documentation rules through misrepresentation or by registering a purchase in the name of a Chinese national. This approach carries grave legal exposure, including the potential nullification of the transaction and the loss of all funds paid. Always establish your eligibility conclusively before making any payment.

Title defects and incomplete documentation. Before a property can be sold to a foreign buyer it must satisfy specific legal conditions. Title disputes, unresolved mortgages, and properties with incomplete planning or construction permits do occur in the resale market. Always instruct a lawyer to verify the title certificate and carry out a comprehensive title search before signing any agreement.

Risks associated with off-plan purchases. China’s property market crisis has vividly exposed the hazards of buying off-plan. Several prominent developers have defaulted on their obligations, leaving purchasers with stalled or permanently unfinished projects. Anyone considering an off-plan purchase should rigorously research the developer’s financial condition and confirm that a valid pre-sale permit has been issued. Prioritise developers with a strong and consistent delivery track record.

Foreign exchange obstacles. China’s $50,000 annual personal forex allowance makes planning an essential part of any large property purchase. Failing to arrange currency transfers in advance can delay or entirely derail a transaction. Work with a currency transfer specialist or a bank with proven experience in China property transactions to navigate this process smoothly.

Restrictions on letting the property. Generating rental income from a property purchased under “self-occupation only” rules may constitute a breach of the purchase conditions in many cities. While some cities permit letting after a minimum owner-occupation period, unauthorised leasing exposes buyers to legal liability. Clarify the position with your lawyer before purchasing.

Consequences of losing residency status. Ceasing to hold valid residence status does not automatically strip you of ownership, but it can restrict your ability to conduct future property transactions, make refinancing difficult, and complicate day-to-day property management. In certain cities, owners in this position may be required to dispose of the property within a defined period.

Unregulated agents and intermediaries. China’s property agency sector is extensive but its regulation is uneven. Always confirm that your agent holds a valid licence and is registered with the relevant local housing authority. Exercise particular caution towards individuals who offer to “facilitate” compliance with eligibility requirements on your behalf.

Can I buy property in China through a company, and is it worth doing?

Foreign-invested enterprises may hold broader entitlements to acquire commercial real estate and industrial premises under the terms of their applicable business licences. Establishing a Wholly Foreign-Owned Enterprise (WFOE) or entering a joint venture with a Chinese partner is the most widely used corporate route for foreign buyers seeking to acquire commercial property or to hold multiple assets within a single structure.

For residential property, a corporate structure is generally not an accepted means of circumventing the one-property rule applicable to individuals. The authorities are alert to attempts to use company ownership to sidestep personal acquisition restrictions, and such arrangements risk being unwound on scrutiny. Corporate ownership is therefore most relevant for investors targeting commercial, industrial, or mixed-use assets.

Potential benefits of holding property through a company include more straightforward management of a multi-property portfolio, possible tax efficiencies on rental income, and the ability to hold Chinese assets within an international corporate structure for succession or estate planning purposes, or for an eventual exit via share transfer rather than direct property sale. Deed Tax is levied on the buyer in any transfer of real property or land use rights at a rate of between 3% and 5% depending on the location. However, the Land Value Appreciation Tax (LVAT) is potentially the most significant tax cost for sellers, being imposed on the taxable gains arising from a real property transfer at progressive rates running from 30% to 60% depending on the level of gain above prescribed deductible thresholds.

Corporate structures carry ongoing compliance obligations, including annual audits, regular tax filings, and registered capital requirements. The associated costs and administrative demands are substantial for smaller transactions. Independent legal and tax advice is essential before pursuing this approach.

What taxes and ongoing costs should I budget for when owning property in China?

Deed Tax (契税): Revised policies effective from December 2024 set the deed tax for an individual purchasing a first family home at 1% for properties up to 140 sq m, or 1.5% where the property exceeds 140 sq m. For a second family home, the rate is 1% for properties below 140 sq m and 2% for those above. The standard statutory rate is 3%–5%, with the reduced rates applying to qualifying purchases.

Stamp Duty (印花税): Stamp duty applies to property transactions including sales, leases, and mortgage documentation. Applicable rates depend on the location, property category, and transaction value, and are paid by the party liable for the instrument. For property sale contracts, the standard rate is 0.05% of the contract value, charged to the buyer.

VAT (增值税): As of December 2024, residential properties in Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Shenzhen that have been held for at least two years are exempt from VAT on sale, aligning these cities with the policy already applicable elsewhere in China. Where VAT does apply, it is levied at 9% of gross sale proceeds.

Annual Property Tax: No nationwide annual property tax covering all residential properties is in force as of 2025. Targeted pilot programmes operate in a small number of cities, including Shanghai and Chongqing, directed at high-value or second properties. A broader national property tax has been under active discussion for a number of years but has not yet been brought in. Buyers should keep track of developments via the State Taxation Administration’s publications.

Rental Income Tax: If you are authorised to let your property, rental income is subject to Individual Income Tax (IIT) at a flat rate of 20% for foreign nationals, though the taxable base may be reduced through allowable deductions. Refer to the State Taxation Administration for current guidance on applicable deductions and filing obligations.

Agent fees: The agent’s commission ranges from 0.5% to 2.5% depending on local market norms and applicable regulations.

Management and maintenance fees: Most residential compounds in China levy a monthly property management fee (物业费), typically between RMB 2 and RMB 15 per square metre per month, varying with the location and standard of the development. Utilities and building maintenance contributions are charged separately. Verify all current tax rates and obligations with the State Taxation Administration (www.chinatax.gov.cn).

What are the official sources I should consult when buying property in China?

• Ministry of Housing and Urban-Rural Development (MOHURD) — the lead authority for housing policy and residential market regulation: www.mohurd.gov.cn
• Ministry of Natural Resources — responsible for land use rights, property registration, and title documentation: www.mnr.gov.cn
• State Taxation Administration (STA) — the authoritative source for all property-related tax matters including deed tax, stamp duty, VAT, and income tax: www.chinatax.gov.cn
• National Bureau of Statistics of China (NBS) — publishes monthly and annual property price data and wider market statistics: www.stats.gov.cn
• People’s Bank of China (PBOC) — the central bank, relevant to mortgage lending policies and foreign exchange regulations: www.pbc.gov.cn
• State Administration of Foreign Exchange (SAFE) — governs currency conversion and remittance rules of direct relevance to foreign property buyers: www.safe.gov.cn
• All China Lawyers Association (ACLA) — the regulatory and professional body for lawyers in China; use its directory to verify that a practitioner is properly licensed: www.acla.org.cn
• DLA Piper Real World — China Real Estate Law Guide — a detailed legal overview of property acquisition for foreign buyers: www.dlapiperrealworld.com

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I buy property in China if I don’t currently live there?

In most circumstances, no. The standard requirement is that foreign nationals must have resided, worked, or studied in China for a minimum of one year before qualifying to purchase residential property. Non-resident purchases are not permitted under current rules for individual buyers. A small number of cities have eased their conditions, so it is always worth checking the requirements specific to your intended location.

How long does the property purchase process take in China?

From the point of signing the purchase contract through to receipt of the title certificate, the process typically takes between one and three months. Hold-ups most commonly arise at the government approval stage — in particular for foreign buyers who require National Security Bureau clearance — or during the foreign exchange transfer process. Build in additional time if you need to convert substantial amounts of overseas currency.

Can a foreigner get a mortgage in China?

Foreign buyers may encounter limited choices of mortgage lender, as certain Chinese banks will only extend credit to Chinese citizens or to individuals married to Chinese nationals. Those foreign buyers who do qualify are generally required to provide a larger deposit, often 30%–40%, and to demonstrate a stable income from a Chinese-based employer. Financing a Chinese residential property purchase through an overseas lender is generally not permissible.

Can I rent out my property in China as a foreigner?

Foreign individuals are ordinarily permitted to purchase only one residential property, and that property must serve as their personal home rather than a rental asset. Some cities do allow letting after the owner has occupied the property for a minimum period, but policies vary. The tax treatment of rental income and the legal status of any letting arrangement should be confirmed with a local lawyer before you proceed.

What happens to my property if my visa or residence permit expires?

The expiry of your residence status does not automatically deprive you of ownership, but it may restrict you from entering into future property transactions, create difficulties in refinancing, and complicate routine property management. Certain cities impose requirements to dispose of the property within a specified period. If your visa situation is uncertain, discuss contingency planning with your lawyer at the outset rather than after the fact.

Is there an annual property tax in China?

As of 2025, China has not introduced a nationwide annual property tax applicable to all residential holdings. Pilot schemes targeting higher-value or multiple properties are operating in selected cities, including Shanghai and Chongqing. A national property tax has been under consideration for several years but remains unimplemented. Monitor the State Taxation Administration’s website for updates on any change in policy.

Can I buy agricultural or rural land in China?

No. Agricultural and rural land in China is subject to collective ownership and cannot be acquired by private individuals, whether Chinese or foreign. Private acquisition is available only for land use rights associated with urban residential and commercial purposes. There are no exceptions for foreign nationals, and any attempt to circumvent this prohibition carries serious legal consequences.

Do I need to use a notary when buying property in China?

Notarisation is a requirement for specified categories of document — especially those prepared overseas, such as passports, proof of income, and powers of attorney — which must be notarised and in some cases apostilled before they can be accepted within a Chinese property transaction. Chinese notaries (公证处) authenticate documents but do not serve as independent legal counsel. You should therefore always retain a separately qualified property lawyer to represent and protect your interests throughout the entire transaction process.