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Who Buys Cars in Abu Dhabi: Your Complete Guide to Selling Your Used Vehicle FAST
# Who Buys Cars in Abu Dhabi: Your Complete Guide to Selling Your Used Vehicle Fast
If you’re wondering who buys cars in Abu Dhabi, the answer is simple. Professional car buyers like iCarsU.com purchase used vehicles directly from owners every single day. We evaluate your car, offer you a fair price, and complete the entire sale within hours. No waiting lists. No lengthy negotiations. No hidden fees.
But there’s much more to understand about the car-buying landscape in Abu Dhabi. Whether you want to sell your car quickly, get top value for your vehicle, or understand your options as a seller, this guide covers everything you need to know.
## Understanding the Car-Buying Market in Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi has a thriving used car market. Thousands of people buy and sell vehicles every month across the emirate. However, not all buyers operate the same way. Some are individual car enthusiasts. Others are established dealerships. Many are professional car-buying companies with years of experience evaluating vehicles.
The key difference lies in how quickly they can buy your car and how much transparency they offer throughout the process. When you approach a professional buyer, you gain access to immediate cash offers, streamlined paperwork, and expert vehicle assessment. This stands in stark contrast to listing your car on classified websites, where you might wait weeks or months to find a serious buyer.
Therefore, understanding who actually buys cars helps you choose the right selling method for your situation.
## Types of Buyers Who Purchase Used Cars
When you ask who buys cars in Abu Dhabi, you’re really asking about several different types of purchasers. Each has distinct advantages and disadvantages.
**Professional Car Buying Companies**
Professional buyers like iCarsU.com specialize in purchasing used vehicles directly from owners. These companies have been operating for years, sometimes decades. They employ trained inspectors who evaluate every vehicle thoroughly. Consequently, they can make immediate offers based on objective assessment criteria.
Professional car buyers typically work with standardized evaluation processes. They check mechanical condition, body damage, mileage, and service history. Then they calculate fair market value based on current demand in Abu Dhabi. Most importantly, they handle all paperwork and logistics on your behalf.
**Traditional Car Dealerships**
Dealerships buy used cars as trade-ins or through direct purchases. They often offer lower prices than professional buyers because they need margin for inventory costs, showroom overhead, and sales staff. However, dealerships provide financing options and warranty services that private sales cannot offer.
If you’re buying another vehicle and want to trade in your current car, dealerships simplify the process significantly. Yet if you’re selling your car outright, you’ll typically receive better value from a direct buyer.
**Individual Buyers**
Private individuals constitute the largest segment of car buyers in Abu Dhabi. These people search on Dubizzle, Gumtree, and other classified platforms. They negotiate directly with sellers. Subsequently, they handle their own financing and paperwork.
Selling to individuals can yield higher prices since they don’t require business margins. Conversely, the process takes longer, requires more effort from you, and involves higher safety risks when handling cash payments.
**Fleet Companies and Commercial Buyers**
Corporate buyers purchase vehicles for company use. Additionally, some specialize in acquiring damaged or salvage vehicles. These buyers typically want bulk purchases rather than single cars.
## Why People Sell Cars in Abu Dhabi
Understanding why owners sell their vehicles reveals important patterns in the market. Most sellers fall into several categories.
**Life Changes and Upgrades**
Many owners sell because their needs change. Perhaps they’re upgrading to a larger vehicle for a growing family. Maybe they’re downsizing after their children move out. Some relocate to another emirate or country, requiring them to liquidate their vehicle quickly.
Additionally, people sell when they’re purchasing a different make or model. They might want to switch from a sedan to an SUV, or trade an older car for a newer one. In such cases, speed matters tremendously because they need funds for the new purchase.
**Financial Constraints**
Unfortunately, some owners face unexpected financial pressures. Job loss, medical expenses, or business challenges force them to sell vehicles quickly. These sellers prioritize fast payment over maximum price negotiation.
**Vehicle Age and Maintenance Costs**
Older cars require increasingly expensive repairs. When maintenance bills start approaching half the vehicle’s value, selling makes financial sense. Rather than dumping thousands into repairs for an aging car, owners find buyers and move on.
**Relocation Out of UAE**
Expats represent a significant portion of Abu Dhabi’s population. When employment contracts end or people decide to return to their home countries, they must sell their vehicles. These sellers typically need rapid transactions because their departure dates are fixed.
**Accident Damage or Mechanical Issues**
Some owners have damaged vehicles that require expensive repairs. Rather than invest in restoration, they seek buyers willing to purchase the car as-is. Professional buyers like iCarsU.com specialize in these situations and offer fair prices for damaged vehicles.
## The Fastest Way to We Buy Any Car
Speed matters when you need to sell your car. If you’re relocating soon or facing financial pressure, waiting months for a buyer creates unnecessary stress.
**Professional Car Buyers Offer the Fastest Process**
When you contact iCarsU.com, you can complete your sale in hours, not weeks. Here’s how the process typically works:
First, you contact us via WhatsApp or our online lead form. You provide basic information about your vehicle: make, model, year, mileage, and current condition. Then our team schedules an inspection at your convenience, usually within 24 hours.
Next, our trained inspector evaluates your car thoroughly. They check the engine, transmission, brakes, suspension, interior condition, and exterior damage. The inspection takes 30-45 minutes. Once complete, we provide a fair cash offer based on market conditions in Abu Dhabi.
If you accept our offer, we handle everything else. We arrange payment through your preferred method. We complete all paperwork including the mulkiya transfer. We arrange towing if needed. You simply hand over the keys, and the sale is finished.
This entire process, from initial contact to final payment, typically takes 24-48 hours. No waiting for buyers. No negotiation hassles. No uncertainty about whether you’ll actually sell your vehicle.
**Classified Websites Take Much Longer**
Alternatively, you could list your car on Dubizzle or similar platforms. However, the timeline extends significantly. Most cars listed on Dubizzle take 2-8 weeks to sell. Some wait months. You must create detailed listings with quality photos. You’ll respond to countless inquiries, many from unserious buyers.
Consequently, scheduling inspections becomes time-consuming. You’ll negotiate with multiple potential buyers. Some will waste your time with lowball offers. Others will promise to buy then disappear. The emotional energy required to sell privately far exceeds working with professional buyers.
## What We Buy Any Car Companies Actually Look For
Professional car buyers evaluate numerous factors before making an offer. Understanding these criteria helps you prepare your vehicle and set realistic expectations.
**Mechanical Condition**
The engine is the most important component. We listen for unusual noises. We check for leaks. We verify that it starts easily and runs smoothly. We examine the transmission to ensure it shifts properly. We test the brakes, steering, and suspension.
Additionally, we assess the battery, alternator, and electrical systems. We inspect hoses, belts, and fluid levels. A well-maintained mechanical system significantly increases your vehicle’s value.
**Mileage and Service History**
Lower mileage generally means higher value, though this depends on the vehicle’s age. A five-year-old car with 40,000 kilometers is worth more than one with 120,000 kilometers.
Your service history matters tremendously. Cars with complete maintenance records at authorized dealers command better prices. Regular oil changes, filter replacements, and scheduled servicing demonstrate responsible ownership. Conversely, vehicles with unknown maintenance histories receive lower valuations because we cannot verify their internal condition.
**Exterior Condition**
We inspect the paintwork for scratches, chips, or repainting. We examine the body panels for dents or damage. We check that all doors, windows, and locks function properly. We assess the condition of the bumpers, mirrors, and trim pieces.
Moreover, we examine the tires. Good tires add value. Worn tires reduce it. We check the undercarriage for rust or corrosion, particularly important in the UAE’s coastal environment.
**Interior Condition**
The seats must be intact without tears or stains. The dashboard should not be cracked. The steering wheel and pedals should not be excessively worn. We verify that air conditioning works properly since this is essential in Abu Dhabi’s climate.
Additionally, we check that electronics function correctly. The entertainment system, power windows, and power seats should all work. A clean, well-maintained interior adds significant value.
**Documentation and Ownership**
We verify that you’re the legal owner with proper mulkiya documents. We check for outstanding loans or liens against the vehicle. We ensure the car has passed all required vehicle inspections. We review the ownership history to confirm it hasn’t been involved in major accidents.
Clean documentation facilitates faster sales and ensures no legal complications later. Missing paperwork or unclear ownership can significantly reduce a vehicle’s value.
## How to Get the Most Money for Your Car
If you want to maximize your selling price, certain strategies prove effective.
**Present Your Vehicle Well**
Before contacting buyers, clean your car thoroughly. Wash the exterior and detail the interior. Remove personal items. Fix minor issues like burnt-out bulbs or windshield wipers. These inexpensive fixes demonstrate that you’ve maintained the vehicle properly.
A well-presented car creates a positive first impression. Buyers perceive it as better cared for, justifying higher valuations. Professional buyers notice these details during inspections.
**Gather Your Documentation**
Collect all service records, warranty documents, and ownership papers. Compile information about any recent repairs or replacements. If you’ve had accident repairs, obtain documentation about the work performed.
Complete documentation helps buyers assess your vehicle’s history accurately. Transparency about the car’s past builds trust and often results in better offers.
**Choose the Right Selling Method**
This decision dramatically impacts the price you receive. We buy any car companies typically offer less than private sales because they require business margins. However, they offer certainty, speed, and convenience.
If you have time to wait and want maximum price, selling privately on Dubizzle might yield higher returns. However, you’ll invest significant effort and time. For most people, the convenience of professional buyers outweighs the modest price difference.
**Consider Multiple Valuations**
Before accepting an offer, request evaluations from several sources. iCarsU.com provides free, no-obligation valuations. Other buyers will also assess your car. Comparing multiple offers helps you understand the fair market value in Abu Dhabi.
However, understand that valuations vary based on each buyer’s specific inventory needs. A buyer might offer more for a particular model if they currently have high demand for it. Therefore, multiple quotes provide useful context rather than identical numbers.
**Be Honest About Your Car’s Condition**
Transparency actually helps you get better prices in the long run. If you misrepresent your vehicle’s condition, inspectors will discover the deception. This leads to lower offers or withdrawn purchase proposals.
Professional buyers like iCarsU.com have extensive experience. We can tell if a vehicle has been in an accident or suffered major mechanical repairs. Honesty about your car’s history allows us to provide fair offers that reflect true market value.
## The Safest Way to Receive Payment
Safety matters enormously when selling your car. You need assurance that you’ll actually receive payment. You must protect yourself from scams and fraud.
**Bank Transfers Provide Maximum Protection**
The safest payment method is a bank transfer directly to your UAE bank account. This creates a documented transaction with a clear audit trail. The funds transfer through official banking channels. You have evidence of payment, and the buyer cannot reverse the transaction easily.
When buyers offer bank transfers, request their bank details and the exact amount they’ll transfer. Verify the transfer occurred in your bank account before handing over vehicle keys and documents.
**Cashier’s Checks Offer Good Protection**
Certified checks from UAE banks provide documented payment. However, verify that the check clears before transferring ownership. Processing typically takes 2-3 business days. Only release your vehicle once the funds actually appear in your account.
**Avoid Cash Transactions When Possible**
Many people prefer receiving cash, but this carries risks. Large cash transactions attract attention. You must count the money carefully. Once you accept cash, proving payment happened becomes difficult if disputes arise.
Additionally, carrying large sums of cash creates personal safety risks. You become a target for theft. Therefore, we recommend avoiding pure cash exchanges for used car sales.
**Never Sell Without Payment First**
Regardless of how trustworthy a buyer seems, never hand over your vehicle before payment clears. Never release your mulkiya documents without receiving payment. Never sign ownership transfer documents without guaranteed funds in your account.
Some fraudsters promise payment after taking possession, then disappear. Professional buyers complete payment before taking the vehicle. This protects both parties and demonstrates legitimacy.
## Important Documents You’ll Need for Sale
Selling your car in Abu Dhabi requires specific paperwork. Having everything prepared streamlines the process significantly.
**The Mulkiya (Vehicle Registration Certificate)**
This is your car’s ownership document. It proves you’re the legal owner. You must provide this when selling. The mulkiya includes the vehicle’s specifications, registration number, and ownership history.
During the sale, the buyer’s name is added to the mulkiya at the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA). This transfer officially changes ownership. Without proper mulkiya documentation, the sale cannot be completed legally.
**Service Records and Maintenance History**
Compile all service records from authorized dealers or reputable garages. Include oil change records, filter replacements, and any major repairs. These documents support claims about your vehicle’s condition.
**Proof of Insurance**
Your current insurance documents show that the car is insured. Though the policy transfers to the new owner, providing these documents demonstrates the car is legally registered and insured.
**Payment Records**
If you financed the car through a bank or dealer, gather those loan documents. Ensure the loan has been fully paid. Buyers cannot purchase vehicles with outstanding financing. The original lender must release the lien before ownership can transfer.
**Inspection Reports**
If you’ve had your vehicle professionally inspected recently, this documentation proves its condition. Inspection reports from RTA or third-party inspectors add credibility.
**ID and Proof of Ownership**
You’ll need your Emirates ID. You might need proof of residency. These documents verify that you’re the legitimate owner authorized to sell.
Professional buyers like iCarsU.com guide you through required documents. We ensure nothing is missing before finalizing the sale. This prevents delays and complications.
## Why Choose Professional Car Buyers
After understanding the various ways to sell your car, professional car-buying companies emerge as the optimal choice for most sellers in Abu Dhabi.
**Speed and Convenience**
Professional buyers complete transactions in hours or days. You avoid the weeks or months required for private sales. You don’t spend time photographing your car, responding to inquiries, or scheduling multiple inspections.
**Fair Market Valuations**
We buy any car services employ experienced inspectors trained in vehicle evaluation. They assess current market conditions in Abu Dhabi. They provide fair prices based on objective criteria rather than guesswork or lowball tactics.
**Guaranteed Payment**
Working with established buyers eliminates payment risk. You receive funds through official banking channels. You have documented proof of the transaction. No scams. No disappearing buyers. No uncertainty.
**Complete Paperwork Handling**
Professional car buyers manage all documentation. We handle the mulkiya transfer. We arrange RTA registration changes. We manage insurance transfers. You don’t need to understand the bureaucratic process. We handle it.
**No Negotiation Hassles**
We provide a price, and you decide whether to accept it. You’re not haggling with multiple buyers or dealing with people who constantly request price reductions after inspecting the vehicle.
**Acceptance of Any Condition**
We buy cars in any condition. Damaged vehicles, high-mileage cars, vehicles with mechanical issues—we evaluate everything fairly. You don’t need to invest money in repairs to sell your car.
**Expert Assessment of Your Vehicle’s Value**
The car-buying market in Abu Dhabi fluctuates. Demand varies by model, color, and specification. Professional buyers stay current with market trends. They know which vehicles are in demand. They understand seasonal variations. Consequently, they offer accurate valuations reflecting actual market conditions.
## The Process of Selling Your Car to iCarsU.com
If you decide to sell to a professional car buyer, understanding the exact process removes uncertainty and builds confidence.
**Step One: Initial Contact and Information**
You reach out to iCarsU.com via WhatsApp or our online contact form. You provide basic information: vehicle make, model, year, current mileage, and general condition. You might mention any damage or mechanical issues. This information helps us prepare for your inspection.
**Step Two: Inspection Scheduling**
Our team responds promptly and schedules an inspection at your convenience. We typically arrange inspections within 24 hours. You choose the location: your home, workplace, or our office. You don’t need to travel unless you prefer. We come to you.
**Step Three: Professional Vehicle Evaluation**
Our inspector arrives at the scheduled time with professional equipment. They conduct a thorough evaluation lasting 30-45 minutes. They test the engine, check fluid levels, verify that all systems function, and assess body condition. They review your paperwork and service history.
This inspection is detailed but non-invasive. We don’t perform destructive testing or remove parts. We simply verify the vehicle’s actual condition compared to your description.
**Step Four: Valuation and Offer**
After completing the inspection, we calculate a fair market value. We consider current demand in Abu Dhabi. We account for the vehicle’s condition, mileage, and specifications. We provide a transparent offer including our assessment details.
You’re under no obligation to accept. We don’t pressure clients. If you want to think it over or get competing bids, that’s perfectly fine. Many people appreciate having multiple valuations.
**Step Five: Agreement and Payment**
If you accept our offer, we move to completion. You review and sign the purchase agreement. We arrange payment through your preferred method: bank transfer, check, or cash. Typically, funds transfer within hours.
**Step Six: Paperwork and Documentation**
We collect your mulkiya and other relevant documents. We arrange the mulkiya transfer at RTA to change ownership to iCarsU.com. We handle insurance transfers and registration updates. You simply provide signatures where required.
**Step Seven: Vehicle Handover**
Once payment clears and paperwork completes, you hand over the keys. We arrange towing if needed. The sale is officially complete. You walk away with payment in hand and no further obligations.
This entire process, from initial contact to final handover, typically requires 24-48 hours. It’s remarkably efficient compared to the months private sellers often invest.
## Sell My Car Near Me: Local Solutions
If you’re searching for “sell my car near me,” you’re looking for convenient local options. Abu Dhabi residents have fortunately several advantages when selling vehicles locally.
**Proximity to Professional Buyers**
Major professional car-buying companies maintain offices throughout Abu Dhabi. Whether you’re in Al Ain, Madinat Zayed, or the downtown core, professional buyers operate in your area. This means you don’t need to travel far for inspections. We come to your location for evaluation.
**Understanding Local Market Conditions**
Local buyers understand Abu Dhabi’s specific used car market. They know which models are in demand. They’re aware of seasonal patterns. They understand how weather, driving conditions, and local preferences affect vehicle values. Therefore, their valuations reflect true local market conditions.
**Quick Turnaround Times**
Being in the same emirate, professional buyers can schedule inspections immediately. You don’t wait for buyers to travel long distances. Inspections happen quickly. Payment processes faster because transfers occur within the same banking infrastructure.
**Established Local Reputation**
Long-established buyers like iCarsU.com have built reputations through years of honest dealings in Abu Dhabi. They have numerous local clients and reviews. You can verify their legitimacy through local business directories and customer testimonials.
## Common Mistakes to Avoid When Selling Your Car
Many car sellers make costly errors. Understanding these mistakes helps you avoid them.
**Failing to Gather Documentation**
Some sellers can’t locate their mulkiya or service records. This delays the sale significantly. Missing documents can prevent legal transfer of ownership. Always gather all paperwork before contacting buyers.
**Overestimating Your Vehicle’s Value**
Emotional attachment often makes owners believe their cars are worth more than market value. Unrealistic pricing expectations frustrate buyers and prolong the selling process. Professional valuations help establish realistic prices.
**Accepting the First Offer Without Comparison**
Some sellers accept the first offer they receive without exploring alternatives. Getting multiple valuations ensures you understand the fair market range. However, differences between offers are usually modest, and the convenience factor matters significantly.
**Allowing Buyers to Take the Vehicle Before Payment Clears**
This is a critical mistake. Never release the car until payment fully clears your bank account. Never give keys or documents until funds are verified as yours. No exceptions exist to this rule.
**Neglecting Vehicle Presentation**
A dirty, cluttered car creates poor impressions. Spending an hour cleaning costs nothing but improves offers substantially. Buyers perceive clean cars as better maintained. Therefore, presentation impacts valuation directly.
**Selling During Low-Demand Seasons**
Used car demand fluctuates seasonally. Selling before major holidays or at times when people generally avoid large purchases may result in lower offers. Professional buyers understand these patterns and can advise you about timing.
**Ignoring Vehicle History Issues**
Some sellers try to hide accident history or major repairs. Professional inspectors discover these issues during evaluation. Honesty about your vehicle’s past leads to fair offers. Deception leads to rejected offers or withdrawn purchases.
**Underestimating the Value of Routine Maintenance Records**
Service history genuinely impacts vehicle valuation. Cars with complete maintenance records sell for significantly more than those with gaps. If you have records, ensure buyers see them. If you’re missing records, acknowledge this honestly.
## Understanding Current Car Values in Abu Dhabi
Vehicle values in Abu Dhabi reflect broader market conditions. Several factors influence what your car is worth.
**Brand and Model Demand**
Popular brands and models command higher prices. Japanese vehicles like Toyota, Honda, and Nissan maintain strong demand. German luxury brands like BMW and Mercedes have loyal buyers. Conversely, niche brands or models with lower demand receive lower valuations.
**Age and Mileage**
Generally, newer cars with lower mileage are worth more. However, reliability matters significantly. A well-maintained eight-year-old car with 80,000 kilometers might be worth more than a neglected five-year-old car with 100,000 kilometers.
**Fuel Type and Efficiency**
Petrol vehicles dominate the UAE market, so they’re easier to sell and typically command better prices. Diesel vehicles have smaller markets. Hybrid and electric vehicles are emerging but represent a tiny fraction of the market.
**Color and Interior**
White, silver, and black are most popular in Abu Dhabi due to heat reflection and aesthetic preferences. Popular interior colors like beige and gray are easier to sell. Unusual colors may limit the buyer pool.
**Accident History**
Vehicles with clean accident histories are worth significantly more. Cars that have been in accidents, even if professionally repaired, face value reductions. The reduction depends on the accident’s severity and the quality of repairs performed.
**Specification and Features**
Cars with sought-after features like sunroofs, leather interiors, and advanced infotainment systems command premiums. Basic vehicles without these features are worth less.
## What Happens After You Sell Your Car
Understanding the post-sale process helps you plan your next steps.
**Mulkiya Ownership Transfer**
The buyer must visit RTA to transfer the mulkiya into their name. This typically happens within 7-14 days of purchase. You don’t need to attend. The buyer handles this administrative task.
**Insurance Transfer**
Your insurance policy terminates when ownership transfers. The new owner arranges new insurance. You might receive a refund for unused portions of your annual insurance premium, though this varies by insurer.
**Tax and Registration**
When the mulkiya transfers, the new owner pays annual registration fees and taxes. These are their responsibility as the new owner. You have no further obligations.
**Final Verification**
You might receive confirmation from RTA or your insurer that the vehicle is no longer registered in your name. This provides peace of mind that the transfer completed successfully.
## Making Your Final Decision
Deciding how to sell your car involves weighing speed, convenience, and price. Professional car buyers like iCarsU.com excel at speed and convenience. They provide fair prices reflecting current Abu Dhabi market conditions. They handle all paperwork and logistics. They eliminate uncertainty and risk.
If you value your time and want a guaranteed sale with minimal stress, professional buyers offer the optimal solution. When you’re ready to sell, contact iCarsU.com via WhatsApp or our online form for a free, no-obligation valuation. Our inspectors evaluate your vehicle within 24 hours. We provide a fair offer with transparent assessment details. If you accept, we complete the entire process in 24-48 hours.
The used car market in Abu Dhabi offers numerous options for sellers. Professional car-buying companies like iCarsU.com stand out for their speed, fairness, and customer service. We’ve been purchasing used vehicles across Abu Dhabi for 14 years. We understand local market conditions better than anyone. We treat every customer with respect and integrity. We make selling your car straightforward and stress-free.
Whether you’re upgrading to a newer model, relocating, or simply ready for a change, we’re here to help. We buy any car in any condition. We offer competitive prices. We complete sales quickly. We handle all the complexity so you don’t have to. Contact iCarsU.com today, and discover why thousands of Abu Dhabi residents trust us with their vehicle sales.
How long does it typically take to sell a used car in Abu Dhabi through a dealership versus a professional buyer?
Dealerships may take 1-3 weeks to process your vehicle sale, as they need to inspect, value, and incorporate your car into their inventory system. Professional car buyers like iCarsU.com complete the entire transaction in 24-48 hours, making them significantly faster for sellers who need quick results.
What is the average price difference between selling your car to a professional buyer versus a private buyer in Abu Dhabi?
Private sales typically yield 5-15% higher prices since individual buyers don’t require business margins. However, professional buyers offer certainty and convenience that often outweigh this modest difference, especially when you factor in the time and effort required for private sales, which can span 2-8 weeks or longer.
Can I sell my damaged car in Abu Dhabi, and will professional buyers still make an offer?
Yes, professional car buyers accept vehicles in any condition, including those with accident damage, mechanical issues, or cosmetic damage. They provide fair valuations accounting for repair costs, eliminating the need for you to invest money in repairs before selling.
What paperwork do I need to have ready when selling my car in Abu Dhabi to expedite the process?
You should gather your mulkiya (vehicle registration certificate), service records, proof of insurance, any loan documents proving the car is paid off, your Emirates ID, and recent inspection reports if available. Having complete documentation allows professional buyers to complete your sale faster without delays.
Is it safe to sell my car through bank transfer, and what protections do I have as a seller in Abu Dhabi?
Bank transfers are the safest payment method for selling your car in Abu Dhabi, as they create documented transactions with audit trails through official banking channels. Never hand over your vehicle or mulkiya documents until the bank transfer clears in your account, and always verify funds have actually arrived before releasing ownership documents.