Introduction:
Buying a property, particularly for first-time homeowners, can be an overwhelming and perplexing process. With countless intricate steps, obscure jargon, and complex legal terms, it’s no wonder many individuals find themselves at a loss when it comes to navigating the world of real estate in India. Fear not, as this article aims to simplify the process and break down the essential real estate laws in India, leaving you better equipped to confidently make your next real estate venture.
Real Estate Law in India
The legal framework for real estate in India is primarily governed by a combination of State-specific laws and Federal laws due to the Constitution’s jurisdiction over “Land” and “Transfer of Property.” This duality contributes to the complexity of buying and registering property in the country. However, understanding the fundamentals of Indian real estate law can significantly aid in demystifying this intricate process.
Key legislation like the Real Estate (Regulation and Development) Act (“RERA”), 2016 lays down crucial guidelines for real estate development, sales, and marketing while safeguarding consumer interests. Additionally, other acts such as Registration Act (1908), Indian Stamp Act (1899), and Transfer of Property Act (1882) regulate various aspects of property transactions, including document registration, stamp duty payment, and transfer of ownership.
Navigating these critical laws is vital for anyone venturing into Indian real estate. With this knowledge, buying property needn’t be the intimidating task it once seemed.
Essential Documents to Review Before Purchasing a Home
Conducting due diligence is crucial for prospective homebuyers to ensure a smooth and hassle-free property purchase. The following documents should be thoroughly examined before finalizing a home acquisition, particularly when considering flats in Kolkata:
- Completion and Occupancy Certificates: A Completion Certificate (CC) is granted by the municipal authorities once a housing project is finished. It is necessary for securing loans from banks and applying for water and electricity connections. An Occupancy Certificate (OC) is issued when the completed project meets all requisite standards, confirming that it has been constructed in compliance with applicable codes.
- Building Plan: A building or site plan displays the project’s blueprint, which includes the layout of residential spaces and utilities. Homebuyers should verify that the plan has received full approval from the local municipal authority.
- Encumbrance Certificate: This certificate can be procured from the sub-registrar’s office where the property is registered. It indicates that there are no outstanding legal or financial obligations connected to the property. Buyers should confirm that all dues (such as taxes, electricity bills, and water bills) have been paid, that the legal ownership rests with the seller, and that they possess the requisite authority to sell the property.
- No Objection Certificate: Although not legally mandated, obtaining a No Objection Certificate from your housing society can be an additional precautionary measure.
Remember to thoroughly review each of these essential documents before making your decision to purchase a home.
Step-by-Step Guide to Home Registration:
Home registration in India is a legal necessity, as stated by the Indian Registration Act of 1908. This article provides a step-by-step guide to help you navigate this process and ensure that you become the legal owner of your property. Please note that in Maharashtra, the Maharashtra Ownership Flats Act, 1963, mandates that all agreements to buy or sell an apartment must be registered under Section 4.
Step 1: Drafting the Sale Deed
The sale deed, which serves as evidence of the property sale and transfer, is typically prepared by the buyer’s lawyer. This document is created on green legal paper, leaving the date and place fields blank to be filled in later during stamping. It’s important to carefully read the fine print before signing the deed.
Step 2: Paying the Stamp Duty
The stamp duty, which is generally around 5% of the property’s market value (this varies by state), needs to be paid by the buyer at a designated bank or authorized collection center of the Stock Holding Corporation of India. After payment, the bank will issue a receipt and stamp the sale deed with “stamp duty received”.
Step 3: Document Registration and Execution at the Sub-Registrar of Assurances
Following the payment of stamp duty, the documents must be registered with the sub-registrar in the jurisdiction where the property is located. The seller, buyer, and two witnesses must be physically present at the sub-registrar’s office as electronic real estate registration is not possible in India.
After the buyer, seller, and witnesses sign the stamped deed, it is registered, and a distinct number is assigned to it. The buyer then receives a receipt. The sale deed is presented to the Reader of the Sub-Registrar for verification, who will then specify the registration fee. Once the fee is paid and a receipt is issued, the documentation is presented before the Sub-Registrar. Once the documents are returned to the buyer, the seller transfers physical possession of the property.
Step 4: Mutation of Title Deeds
The final step in the process is mutation, which is the change of property ownership from the seller to the buyer. This step is crucial for making the buyer the official owner and for the government to impose property tax. The buyer applies for mutation at the City Survey and Land Records Department, submitting a signed application form and a notarized copy of the Sale Deed. The department then determines the property tax and issues the Letter of Mutation to the buyer.
Necessary Paperwork for Property Acquisition
In order to streamline the process of property purchase, it’s recommended that all participants, including the buyer, seller, and witnesses, have certain documents at the ready. These documents include Aadhar Card, PAN Card, or any other government-issued identification like a Voter ID Card or passport. Additionally, two recent passport-sized photos are required from each party.
A few more documents that are necessary for the process are:
- An original version of the sales deed, along with two duplicates
- Official duplicates of the Certificate of Incorporation for both the buyer and seller, given the buyer is a corporation and not an individual
- A recent property register card to confirm that the property isn’t government-owned, which can be procured from the City Survey Department
- A copy of a municipal tax bill to confirm the property’s construction year
- If any party is representing another individual, a power of authority document is required
Conclusion
The process of property acquisition and its subsequent registration can appear daunting. This guide, however, aims to demystify the basics of India’s real estate laws and simplify the steps involved in purchasing a property. With some fundamental understanding of the process, navigating the somewhat intricate Indian real estate law becomes a manageable task.