Essential Documents Checklist for Buying Property in India: (2024)

Essential Documents Checklist for Buying Property in India:

1. Title Deed (Sale Deed): The Title Deed establishes ownership of the property and contains vital details such as the seller's and buyer's names, property description, sale consideration, and terms and conditions of the sale. It serves as the primary legal document confirming your ownership rights.
2. Mother Deed: This document traces the property's ownership from its origin to the present owner, ensuring an unbroken chain of ownership. Verifying the Mother Deed establishes the property's legitimacy and ownership history.
3. Encumbrance Certificate: The Encumbrance Certificate provides information about any mortgages, liens, or legal claims on the property. By obtaining this certificate, you can ensure that the property is free from any monetary or legal liabilities.
4. Property Tax Receipts: Make sure to request the latest property tax receipts from the seller to verify that all taxes have been paid up to date. Clearing any outstanding taxes is essential to avoid future complications.
5. Approved Building Plan: For apartments or properties within housing societies, ensure that the building plan is approved by the local municipal or development authority. This approval signifies adherence to construction guidelines and regulations.
6. Completion Certificate: In the case of newly constructed properties, verify whether the builder or developer has obtained the completion certificate from the relevant authority. This certificate confirms that the building has been constructed in compliance with the approved plan and is ready for occupancy.
7. Occupancy Certificate: For resale or constructed buildings, it is crucial that the seller possesses an Occupancy Certificate issued by the local authority. This certificate validates that the building is safe and fit for occupation.
8. No Objection Certificates (NOCs): Depending on the property's location and type, specific NOCs may be required, such as NOC from the society or builder, NOC from the land development authority, or NOC for land use conversion. These certificates ensure compliance with regulations and permissions.
9. Power of Attorney (POA): If the property is being sold through a power of attorney, ensure the authenticity and validity of the POA document. Verifying this document is essential to avoid any legal complications.
10. Sale Agreement: The Sale Agreement outlines the terms and conditions agreed upon by the buyer and seller before executing the sale deed. It includes details such as the sale price, payment schedule, possession date, and other relevant clauses.
11. Patta & Chitta: Patta is an official document that establishes the legal ownership of land or property while Chitta, also known as Chitta Extract, is a record maintained by the government that contains essential details such as property boundaries, ownership information, tax assessment, and other related information
12. Bank Release Letter: If the property was mortgaged, obtain a bank release letter stating that the property's loan has been repaid and there are no outstanding dues. This document is necessary to ensure the property's free and clear status.
13. Society Documents (in case of apartments): When purchasing an apartment, review the society documents, including the share certificate, society registration certificate, maintenance bills, and society NOC for the sale. These documents verify the property's association with society and its compliance with applicable rules.
14. EB Bills: Electric Bills (EB bills) refer to the monthly or periodic bills issued by the Electricity Board or utility company for the consumption of electricity at a property. These bills serve as evidence of electricity usage and you must verify proper electricity connections and clear any outstanding dues.
15. Receipts: Receipts relating to the property purchase, such as payment receipts, advance payments, and instalment receipts, are essential documents that provide evidence of financial transactions between the buyer and the seller. These receipts help in establishing the payment history and ensure a smooth transfer of ownership.
16. Maintenance Arrears: These refer to any outstanding payments or dues associated with the maintenance charges of a property within a building society or residential complex. Obtaining the necessary receipts or documentation is important to ensure that there are no pending maintenance arrears that can prevent any future financial liabilities or disputes with the building society or management committee.
17. Keys: Last but definitely most important, don't forget to obtain all necessary keys for the property, including main entrance keys, gate keys, and any other relevant keys, to ensure smooth access and ownership of the property.

While this list is comprehensive, we still advise consulting with legal professionals or real estate experts to review these documents and guide you through the property-buying process in India.

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