To complete the purchasing process, the contract needs to be signed with a notary. Under no circumstances should you agree to signing the contract before you have a binding confirmation for your financing agreement. Before your meeting with the notary, have the contract sent to you and review it carefully to make sure you understand all terms and conditions and everything told verbally are put in writing so you know exactly what you are committing yourself to. Note down questions that may arise and sections you need elaboration. If you want to be even more careful and thorough you can also hire a lawyer to review the contract for you. You may also know somebody in your social circle who has some expert knowledge in the area and whom you can ask for advice. However, when buying or selling you may also come across many other different types of contracts, such as loan contracts, to which the same principles apply.