Check list for home buyer before purchasing a property covered under RERA

Buying a property is a major financial decision for any person and while RERA (Real Estate Regulatory Authority) has introduced greater transparency and accountability in the real estate sector, it is equally important for homebuyers to do their own due diligence before purchasing Plot/flat/villa . The following checklist will help you make an informed and secure investment:

1. Verify Project Registration

• Visit the official state RERA website.
• Search for the project using the registration number shared by the developer.
• Review project details such as status, approvals, and completion timeline.

2. Check the Developer’s Credentials

• Ensure the developer is RERA-registered.
• Assess their track record for timely delivery.
• Look into any pending complaints or legal disputes.

3. Review Project Details

• Confirm the exact site location and approved layout plans.
• Verify all mandatory approvals (environmental, municipal, etc.).
• Check the phase-wise development plan.

4. Assess Financial Aspects

• Compare the price with similar projects in the locality.
• Match the payment schedule with construction milestones.
• Watch out for hidden charges, taxes, or additional fees.
• Confirm that 70% of buyer payments are kept in an escrow account, as mandated by RERA.

5. Verify Legal Documents

• Title Deed: Ensure clear ownership of the land.
• Encumbrance Certificate: Confirms no legal dues exist.
• Sale Agreement: Review clauses on project completion, delays, and refund policies.
• OC & CC (Occupancy and Completion Certificates): Mandatory before possession.

6. Check the Project Timeline

• Cross-check the completion date listed on the RERA portal.
• Review the developer’s history of project delivery.
• Ensure the sale agreement includes a penalty clause for delays.

7. Evaluate Amenities and Infrastructure as per advertisement

• Confirm promised amenities (parking, clubhouse, green spaces, etc.).
• Assess nearby infrastructure—roads, transport, schools, hospitals, and markets.
• Ensure availability of water, electricity, and sewage facilities.
• Ensure the quality of the building with a independent civil contractor .
• Ensure the quality of material , electric wire, water harvesting system , paint quality in the building.
• Check the facility is provided as per the approved and sanctioned plan submitted to the RERA on the web site .
• Ensure in writing that if there is any defect in the quality of the building after taking possession of the flat , builder will be responsible  for  removing the defects, for five years .
• Ensure that the builder will be  responsible  for maintaining the building until forms the resident welfare society of the residents .

8. Research Reviews & Complaints

• Read online reviews and testimonials.
• Check the RERA portal for complaints against the project.
• Visit the site and interact with buyers, if possible.

9. Understand Possession & Handover

• Verify that the possession date is clearly stated in the agreement.
• Check if the builder offers a defect liability period for structural issues.
• Understand the process of final payments, possession, and key handover.

10. Check Home Loan Approvals

• Confirm that reputed banks have approved the project.
• Compare loan offers for the best interest rates and terms.
• Understand the disbursal process linked to construction milestones.