Poland · Transaction safety
How to Safely Transfer Money for an Apartment in Poland
Bank safe deposit box, notarial deposit, escrow account for a developer, cash with a receipt — what suits different transactions and which mistakes lead to losing the entire amount.
The moment of money transfer is the most dangerous moment of any transaction. Before it, the scammer invests time and smiles; after it, they disappear. The tools listed below are designed precisely so that the seller receives the money only after you receive the apartment — and vice versa.
§ 01
Ways to transfer money
- 01Bank safe deposit box
The most common option for cash. The buyer deposits the money in the presence of bank staff. The seller gains access only after presenting a registered contract. The box rental cost is symbolic compared to the transaction amount.
- 02Notarial deposit / escrow account
A cashless equivalent of the safe deposit box. The buyer transfers the money to a special account; the bank releases it to the seller after the conditions are met. Safer and faster than a box.
- 03Developer escrow account
When buying from a developer — in many cases mandatory under Polish law. The money is frozen until the building is handed over. If the developer goes bankrupt, the bank returns the funds. Never pay a developer 'directly'.
- 04Cash with a receipt
Only acceptable for small amounts (deposit, reservation fee, rent). The seller writes the receipt by hand: amount in words, date, basis, ID details, signature. In the presence of a witness. For buying an apartment — strongly not recommended.
§ 02
What not to do
- 01Transfers to a personal bank card
Especially — to a card from a bank in another country. Any 'personal request' to transfer 'to a friend's card' is fraud. Money after transfer is practically impossible to recover.
- 02Cryptocurrency
A real estate transaction via crypto can be legally structured, but requires a lawyer and a notary. If someone offers 'via USDT, to make it faster' — that is always fraud.
- 03Handing over money without witnesses
Never hand over a large sum one-on-one in the seller's apartment or in a café. Only in a bank, notary's, or lawyer's office.
⚠ This material is for informational purposes only and does not replace legal advice. For major transactions always work with a qualified specialist in your country.