A token payment is the first moment money changes hands, and it is much harder to take back than to hold off. Checking the title first takes a few days and can save years of trouble.
Documents to ask for
- The registered sale deed, and the earlier deeds that show the chain of ownership
- An encumbrance certificate showing no loans or claims on the property
- Latest property tax and utility bill receipts
- The sanctioned building plan and any completion or occupancy certificate
- A no-objection certificate from the society or builder, where relevant
Who should check them
Have an independent property lawyer review the papers, not only the seller's or the builder's own advisor. For new projects, also look up the RERA registration. We title-check every listing before it reaches you, and we are glad to share what we found.
