Things to Check Before Buying a Property

Title chain and ownership

Trace ownership back through the previous transactions, not just the current seller's document. A break or an unregistered transfer anywhere in the chain becomes your problem the day you buy.

Encumbrance certificate

The EC shows registered charges — mortgages, liens and previous transactions — over a period. Pull it for a meaningful span, and read the entries rather than the summary.

Approvals and land use

Check the approved layout, building permission and the land use classification for the plot. Agricultural land that has not been converted cannot be used for a residence, and an unapproved structure is difficult to finance, insure or resell.

Tax receipts and dues

Property tax, water and electricity dues follow the property. Get up-to-date receipts and, for apartments, the association's no-dues confirmation.

For under-construction purchases

Verify the project's regulatory registration, the builder's completed project record, the construction stage against the payment schedule, and the specific completion commitment in the agreement — not the one in the brochure.

Where to go from here

If this touches a decision you are currently making, our real estate services team can look at your specific situation. A first consultation is confidential and carries no obligation.