Buying a house is one of the most important investments of your life, and it’s essential to ensure that the property you’re considering is legally sound In Hyderabad, the real estate market is booming, but like any other city, it has challenges. To avoid future complications, check the legal documents associated with the property before making the purchase.
Here’s a detailed checklist of the legal documents you must check before buying a house in Hyderabad.
1. Title Deed of Property
The Title Deed is the most important document that proves the legal ownership of the property. It confirms that the seller is the rightful owner of the property and has the right to sell it. ensures that the deed is free from disputes, encumbrances, or claims. Verify that the property title is clear and free from any legal issues.
2. Sale Deed
A Sale Deed is an essential document that confirms the transfer of ownership. It must be signed by both the buyer and the seller in the presence of witnesses. Ensure that the sale deed declares the property details, the agreed-upon price, and the terms and conditions of the sale. The document should also be registered with the local sub-registrar’s office for it to be legally valid.
3. Encumbrance Certificate
An Encumbrance Certificate (EC) is proof that the property is free from any legal or financial liabilities. It ensures that the property doesn’t have any existing mortgages or loans. Request an EC from the sub-registrar’s office or Verify In online and check for any encumbrances during the ownership period.
4. Building Plan Approval and Occupancy Certificate
Before buying a property, make sure that the building plan has been approved by the local municipal authorities. This certificate ensures that the property has been constructed according to the approved plans and matches with local building codes. Additionally, the Occupancy Certificate (OC) confirms that the property is fit for residence. Both documents are crucial in confirming that the property has been legally built and is safe for occupancy.
5. Land Use and Planning Certificate
Hyderabad is a fast growing city, and land-use Planning can affect the future development of the area. Check the land use placing of the property and ensure it matches with your planned use (residential, commercial, etc.). Get a zoning certificate from the relevant local authority to ensure that the property can be legally used for your purpose.
6. Property Tax Receipts
Ensure that the property tax payments are up to date. Outstanding property taxes could lead to future liabilities. Request the property tax receipts for the last few years and check that all payments are made on time.
7. No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the Society/Builder
If you’re buying a property in an apartment complex or gated community, check if there is a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the builder or the society. The NOC is a declaration from the society or builder that there are no legal or financial issues associated with the property. It’s also necessary to make sure that the property is free from any disputes within the society or community.
8. Agreement to Sell
An Agreement to Sell is an initial document that states the terms and conditions of the sale. While it is not a legally binding document, it outlines the basic terms agreed upon between the buyer and the seller. Ensure that this document is clear, and be sure to compare it with the final Sale Deed for consistency.
9. Power of Advocate (if applicable)
In cases where the property is being sold by a representative (such as a relative or lawyer), ensure that the Power of Attorney (PoA) is legally executed and valid. The PoA gives the seller’s representative the legal authority to act on their behalf.
10. Previous Title Documents
It is essential to verify the previous title documents to confirm the property’s ownership history. Ensure that the property’s previous owners have followed all legal procedures and the chain of ownership is clear. This document will help you trace the legal history of the property and prevent future disputes.
Conclusion
buy a home in Hyderabad can be a rewarding experience, but only if you do your due commitment in checking the necessary legal documents. By ensuring that the documents mentioned above are in order, you can protect yourself from possible legal and financial issues. Always look for legal advice from a lawyer or real estate expert to ensure a smooth and hassle-free transaction.
Before making your property purchase, verify these Legal documents to protect your investment and enjoy peace of mind.
