Buying property is one of the biggest financial decisions you will make. Most problems can be avoided by checking the right documents before you pay a token amount. Use this checklist, and always have the papers verified by a qualified lawyer.
For every property
- Title deed and chain of documents: the current sale deed and the previous deeds, showing a clear chain of ownership.
- Land records: in Gujarat, the 7/12 extract and 8-A extract for land, or the property card in many urban areas. In the Union Territory, the equivalent land records from the local revenue office.
- Encumbrance check: confirms there is no loan, mortgage or legal claim on the property.
- Property tax receipts: the latest receipts, with no dues outstanding.
- Identity of the seller: make sure the seller is the owner on record, or holds a valid, registered power of attorney.
For flats and new projects
- RERA registration: for new projects, check the registration number on the official portal: GujRERA in Gujarat, or the RERA portal for Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu.
- Approved building plan and commencement certificate.
- Occupancy or BU (building use) permission for ready buildings.
- Society documents for resale flats: share certificate, no-dues certificate and transfer rules.
For plots and land
- Non-agricultural (NA) permission if you intend to build a house or commercial building.
- Approved layout plan and access road details.
- Agricultural land: in Gujarat, agricultural land can generally be bought only by a person who already holds agriculturist status. Check eligibility with a lawyer before you proceed. Rules differ in the Union Territory.
Costs to budget for
- Stamp duty and registration charges, which are a significant percentage of the property value. Check the current rates with the sub-registrar's office.
- Legal fees, home-loan processing fees, society transfer charges and brokerage, where applicable.
