⚖️ Legal & Documentation Guidance for Property Buyers
Buying property is one of the biggest financial decisions you’ll make — and ensuring clear legal documentation is essential to protect your investment. Whether it’s a plot, apartment, or commercial space, proper verification helps you avoid disputes, fraud, or delays in future resale or registration.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you make legally sound real estate decisions.
đź§ľ 1. Verify the Title Deed
The title deed confirms the ownership of the property.
Make sure:
The seller/developer has absolute ownership rights.
The title is clear and marketable, free from any disputes, loans, or encumbrances.
You check for previous ownership records to confirm the chain of title.
đź’ˇ Tip: Always insist on seeing the original title deed, not just a photocopy.
🏢 2. Check for Approvals & Permissions
Before purchasing, verify that the property is approved by the local authorities.
Key approvals include:
HMDA / DTCP / RERA approval
Building Plan Approval
Land Conversion Certificate (if applicable)
Environmental Clearance (for large projects)
đź’ˇ Tip: You can cross-check project approvals on official government websites or ask for verified copies from the builder.
🧍‍♂️ 3. Verify the Developer’s Credentials
Choose a reputed and RERA-registered developer to ensure your property is genuine and delivered on time.
Confirm:
The developer’s RERA registration number
Track record of completed projects
Legal status of land ownership and development rights
đź’ˇ Why it matters: RERA ensures accountability and transparency between builders and buyers.
📜 4. Sale Agreement
The Agreement of Sale outlines the terms of purchase.
Ensure it includes:
Accurate details of the buyer, seller, and property
Payment schedule and total consideration amount
Possession date and penalty clauses for delays
Rights, obligations, and dispute resolution terms
đź’ˇ Tip: Always have the agreement reviewed by a legal expert before signing.
🏦 5. Encumbrance Certificate (EC)
An Encumbrance Certificate is a record showing that the property is free from any monetary or legal liabilities.
You can obtain it from the sub-registrar’s office.
Check for:
No loans or mortgages attached to the property
No prior sale or legal claim
đź“‘ 6. Mother Deed
The Mother Deed (also called the Parent Deed) traces the ownership history of the property.
It’s essential for verifying how the land or property has changed hands over time.
đź§ 7. Land Use & Zoning Verification
Confirm that the property is in a residential, commercial, or mixed-use zone as per government master plans.
Illegal construction on agricultural or restricted zones can lead to demolition or cancellation of ownership.
đź§ľ 8. Property Tax Receipts & Utility Bills
Ask for the latest property tax, electricity, and water bills paid up to date.
This helps ensure there are no pending dues against the property.
🏗️ 9. Occupancy Certificate (OC) & Completion Certificate (CC)
These certificates confirm that the building is constructed as per approved plans and is ready for possession.
Completion Certificate (CC): Issued after construction is finished.
Occupancy Certificate (OC): Issued once the building meets all safety and utility standards.
đź’ˇ Note: Never take possession without these documents.
đź§® 10. Registration & Stamp Duty
The final step is registering your property at the sub-registrar’s office.
Pay applicable stamp duty and registration fees based on the property’s value to make ownership legally valid.
âś… Summary: Legal Checklist Before You Buy
Step | Document / Check | Purpose |
1 | Title Deed | Confirms ownership |
2 | HMDA / RERA Approvals | Legal authorization |
3 | Encumbrance Certificate | Confirms no debts/disputes |
4 | Sale Agreement | Purchase terms |
5 | Mother Deed | Ownership history |
6 | Property Tax Receipts | Confirms no dues |
7 | Occupancy Certificate | Legal possession approval |
🔑 Final Advice
Investing in real estate is safe — but only when your documents are in order.
Always work with:
âś… A trusted developer (like Sun Raise Infra)
âś… A qualified property lawyer
âś… A registered real estate consultant
This ensures your investment is 100% legal, transparent, and profitable for the long term.