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Buying or selling a property is a significant decision that involves careful planning, thorough research, and accurate execution without making mistakes. Whether you are a first-time buyer, a seasonal investor, or someone looking to sell, understanding the key aspects of property transactions is crucial and necessary. Buying and Selling your property through the right Property Dealer makes your journey more convenient and hassle free. This guide covers everything you need to know to make an informed decision.

Things to Remember While Buying and Selling Your Property

1. Documentation: The Backbone of Property Transactions

Proper documentation is the foundation of any property transaction. Both buyers and sellers need to ensure that all necessary paperwork is complete and verified by the authorities. Missing or incorrect documents can lead to legal complications and delays.

Essential Documents for Buyers and Sellers:

Document Type

Description

Sale Deed

A sale deed is a legal document that transfers the ownership rights of an immovable property from one person to the other. It is one of the major document to verify the details of the property we are dealing in.

Agreement to Sell

This agreement is made initially when the deal is happening and this agreement is for the convenience for the buyers and seller as they both discuss the terms and conditions of the sale deed, payment schedule, property description, execution of sale deed. This documents helps for a hassle free process and it eliminates the risk of future  disputes among the buyers and sellers.

Occupancy Certificate

Necessary before executing the sale deed for a flat or building, affirming the property is habitable and built according to the sanctioned plan.

Possession Letter

A possession letter or certificate is an important document at the time of purchase of a property. A possession letter is given by the seller to the buyer stating the date of possession. A possession letter assures that the possession of a property is transferred from the seller/owner of the property to the buyer successfully.

Encumbrance Certificate

A declaration that the property is free from legal issues, debts, or liens, ensuring clear title transfer.

Conveyance Deed

It’s a legal document issued by the authorities to the first over giving them the possession of the said plot.

Chain of the previous Owners

For the execution of Sale Deed to happen, a buyer should check the chain of previous owners as it is required for the registry to happen.

Tax Receipts

Documents showing consistent payment of property taxes by the seller to validate their legal ownership.

Allotment Letter

Issued by a housing society or governmental body, detailing the property booked and payments made by the buyer.

Completion Certificate

For flats or buildings, it confirms that construction adheres to the approved plan. Essential for the sale process.

No-Objection Certificate

Required especially for flats or buildings, these are obtained from various government departments to verify legal compliance in property development.

General Power of Attorney

If the property sale is handled by a representative, this verifies the seller’s authorisation for this person to conduct the sale.

No-Dues Certificate

In Haryana, Municipal Corporation issues No-Dues Certificate which ensures that the property is free from any kind of property taxes.

Approved Building Plan

It is important to check the approved building plan and if the seller has abided by it, if not then the seller can have to pay penalty or demolish that part of the property to get the NOC from the HSVP.

RERA Approved

Properties approved by RERA (Real Estate Regulatory Authority) are more transparent and secure. Understanding the difference and ensuring compliance is vital for hassle-free ownership. RERA ensures that the project is legally compliant and protects buyers from fraud.

Pro Tip: Always double-check the authenticity of these documents with local authorities before proceeding.

2. Construction Quality: Assessing the Foundation

When buying a property, it’s vital to evaluate the construction quality. This includes:

  • Structural stability
  • Material quality
  • Year of Construction
  • Workmanship
  • Safety standards
  • Compliance with local regulations

Hiring a professional inspector can help you understand the property’s true condition. Look for signs of dampness, cracks, and faulty plumbing that could lead to high maintenance costs later.

3. Documents to Check While Purchasing or Selling

Verifying documents not only saves you from future disputes but also secures your investment. Key documents include:

  • Title Verification
  • No Objection Certificates (NOCs)
  • Property Tax Receipts
  • Approved Layout Plans
  • Building Completion Certificate
  • RERA Registration Details

Pro Tip: Ensure that all NOCs are from relevant authorities, including water, electricity, and fire departments.

4. Construction Age of the Property

The age of the property plays a crucial role in determining its value and maintenance costs. Older properties might require more repairs and may not be energy-efficient, while newer constructions are built with modern materials and safety standards. Properties older than 10 years may require structural audits before purchase. So, its always advisable to ask the dealer/agent about the construction age of the Property.

5. Super Area vs. Built-up Area: Understanding the Difference

Understanding the distinction between super area and built-up area is important for evaluating the price and space utilization:

  • Super Area: Super built-up area is referred to as the ‘saleable area’ and homebuyers are usually charged based on this value. It is the sum of the exclusive built-up area, and common areas including the lift, corridors, staircase, clubhouse, and other amenities. However, it does not include the area of compound walls, open-to-sky swimming pools, parks, driveways, open sports facilities, inaccessible garden areas, play areas, underground sinks, water tanks, and septic tanks.

 

  • Carpet Area: The area of an apartment that can be covered by a carpet or the net usable area is known as the carpet area. This includes the areas of the bedroom, living room, kitchen, bathrooms, and staircases within the house / flat, i.e. areas you can actually cover with a carpet and use. It does not include the external walls, terraces, common areas, lifts, corridors, utility ducts, etc.
 
  • Built-up Area: The built-up area is the sum of the carpet area and the area of both the exterior and interior walls, balcony, interior staircase, and other liveable areas if any. If there is an exclusive terrace, then that too is included. The built-up area comprises around 70-80% of the super built-up area.

Pro Tip: Always ask for the carpet area, which is the actual usable space in the property.

6. Future Growth Prospects

Evaluating the future growth prospects of the location is essential. Look for upcoming infrastructure projects, commercial hubs, and connectivity improvements. Government announcements for metro expansions or new business districts can significantly boost property value.

Panchkula is the fast growing city which is well connected to the hills for a weekend getaway, the best schools for your child education and medical facility for the elderly, the environment is peaceful and green which provides fresh air to breathe, well connected to Chandigarh and Mohali, also it eliminated the traffic via flyovers which saves time, hence making the panchkula city best for investment and residence purpose.

7. Property Accommodation

Ensure the property matches your accommodation needs, such as the number of rooms, layout, and amenities. Factor in storage spaces, parking availability, and provisions for future extensions.

Due to S+4 concept in Panchkula parking problem is solved in some newly built houses.

8. RERA Approval

Properties approved by RERA (Real Estate Regulatory Authority) are more transparent and secure. Understanding the difference and ensuring compliance is vital for hassle-free ownership. RERA ensures that the project is legally compliant and protects buyers from fraud.

9. Possession Date

Check the possession date mentioned in the agreement and confirm the builder’s track record for timely delivery. Delays in possession are common, so negotiate penalty clauses for any delays.

10. Handling Brokerage and Commission

Understand the broker’s commission structure and legal obligations. Clear communication about fees and responsibilities can prevent misunderstandings. Generally, brokers charge 1% of the transaction value.

11. Common Legal Issues in Property Transactions

Learn about the common legal hurdles, including disputes over property rights, unpaid loans, and encumbrances. Being aware can help you avoid potential pitfalls. Always perform a legal due diligence check.

12. Property Valuation Techniques

Accurate property valuation helps in understanding the real worth of a property. Techniques include market comparison, income approach, and cost approach.

13. Understanding Maintenance and Utility Charges

When purchasing or selling a property, understand the associated maintenance costs, utility charges, and potential hike rates.

14. Negotiation Tactics for Buyers and Sellers

Effective negotiation can save you thousands. Understand market rates, be firm with your offers, and use inspection reports to leverage pricing.

15. Understand the Builder's Reputation

If buying from a builder, research their past projects, delivery timelines, and customer reviews. Choose reputed builders with a history of completing projects on time.

Red Flags to Watch For:

  • Unclear possession dates
  • Poor construction quality in past projects
  • Consistent customer complaints

16. Check Financing and Home Loan Options

Understand your eligibility for home loans and compare interest rates from different banks. Be aware of the terms and conditions, and clarify the loan process.

Top Banks Offering Home Loans in India:

  • State Bank of India
  • HDFC Bank
  • ICICI Bank

17. Future Resale Value

Think about the property’s resale value even if you plan to live there long-term. Locations with upcoming infrastructure projects and good connectivity generally appreciate over time.

18. Understand Tax Implications

Be aware of the tax liabilities, such as capital gains tax. Understanding tax exemptions and reinvestment options can save you significant amounts.

Conclusion

Being well-informed about all the critical factors while buying or selling property not only ensures a smooth transaction but also protects your investment. Always consult legal and property experts to validate your decisions and avoid legal complications. Make sure to keep these tips in mind to secure the best deals and avoid common pitfalls.