Buying an apartment is one of the most important decisions of your life. But with excitement comes responsibility—and due diligence. Before you get swept away by marketing brochures and beautiful sample flats, take a moment to validate. It’s the difference between a wise investment and a costly mistake.

Here’s a smart checklist every buyer should go through before booking an apartment

1. Check RERA Registration

Every legitimate real estate project must be registered under RERA (Real Estate Regulatory Authority). This registration ensures the project follows government norms and safeguards your rights as a buyer. You can verify it on the state RERA website using the project’s registration number.

Why it matters: RERA compliance means greater transparency, timely possession, and legal security.

2. Verify Land Title and Legal Clearances

Ask for documents that prove the builder owns the land or has development rights. Ensure there are no pending litigations or disputes.

Why it matters: If the land title isn’t clear, your ownership could be legally challenged—even years later.

3. Check for Construction Approvals

Make sure the builder has received:

• Commencement Certificate
• Building Plan Approval
• Environmental Clearances
• Municipal Sanctions

Why it matters: Without proper permissions, construction may be halted by authorities at any stage.

4. Understand the Carpet Area

Don’t get confused between super built-up, built-up, and carpet area. Always ask for the actual carpet area, which is the usable floor space inside your apartment.

Why it matters: Your price per square foot should be based on the carpet area—not inflated figures.

5. Evaluate the Builder’s Track Record

Do your homework. Visit the developer’s past projects, read customer reviews, and check their delivery timelines and construction quality.

Why it matters: A reputable builder is more likely to complete the project on time and keep promises made during booking.

6. Loan Approvals by Reputed Banks

If nationalised or top private banks have approved the project for home loans, it’s a positive sign. Banks do their own background and legal checks before giving project approval.

Why it matters: It saves you the trouble of verifying everything alone and gives confidence in the project’s legality.

7. Read the Agreement Carefully

Before paying the booking amount or signing the agreement, review:

• Possession date
• Payment milestones
• Cancellation policy
• Penalties for delays
• Hidden charges (maintenance, parking, taxes, etc.)

Why it matters: Everything that’s promised verbally should be written in the agreement. Protect yourself from surprises.