Top 7 Documents You Must Have Before Buying Property

 

Buying a house, land, or shop is a big money-and-law commitment, don't you think? And hey, you got to make sure all those papers are right. Nobody wants to get into a fight over who owns what or lose money they worked hard to earn, right? Here's a guide on the seven important papers you want to look at, for sure, before shaking hands.

1. Title Deed (Sale Deed)

Website Reference : LegalZoom, Rocket Lawyer

 The Title Deed, which people also call Sale Deed, is super important. It shows there the person selling really owns the place and they're passing it over to you.

 Key Things to Peek At:

•   Make sure the seller's name is the same as what's in the government books.
•   Check if there was anything funny with past sales.
•   See if the house is hiding any loans or debts.

 Without a clear title Deed, you might end up in a tough spot, fighting over who really owns the joint.

 

2. Encumbrance Certificate (EC)

 Website Reference: ClearTax, IndiaFilings

An Encumbrance Certificate (EC) says the place is free from money troubles or legal stuff like loans and court stuff.

Why It’s Important:

•   Shows all registered transactions related to the property for a specific period.
•   Required for home loans and property registration.
•   Helps detect hidden legal issues.

Always obtain an EC for at least the last 30 years to ensure full transparency.

 

3. Property Tax Receipts

Website Reference: Municipal Corporation Websites (e.g., MCGM), Property Tax Portals

Property tax receipts prove that the seller has paid all municipal taxes up to date. Unpaid taxes can be a big bother later, bringing fines or scary-looking letters.

 What to Verify:

•   Match the bill receipts with what the place is worth now.
•   Make sure there ain’t any bills waiting to be paid.
•   Check this with local city records.

 People buying, ask for the newest tax papers before you shake on the deal.

 

4. Approved Building Sketch & Moving-In Certificate

Website Reference : RERA Official Portals (e.g., MahaRERA), Local Municipal Websites

 

An Approved Building Sketch shows the place was built law-abidin’. A Moving-In Certificate says the building is safe to live in.

 Why These Matter:

•    Unapproved constructions may face demolition.
•    Banks may reject loans without an OC.
•    Keep You Out of Trouble with local laws.

·         Always make sure you get your eyes on these papers, more so for big apartments and new houses.

 

5. Sales Agreement & Power of Attorney (Maybe)

 Website Reference: LawDepot, Nolo

The Sale's Agreement is the first deal between people buying and people selling, showing things like pay times, when you get the keys and what happens if someone breaks the deal.

 Key Clauses to Include:

•   Exact house details (size, place).
•   How and when you’re gonna pay.
•   Penalties for delays or defaults.

·         If somebody else is speaking for the seller, check the Power of Attorney’s for real.

 

6. No Objection Certificate (NOC) from Authorities Needed

 Website Reference: Housing.com, MagicBricks

And then there's the No Objection Certificate, needed when the house is part of a society, under a loan, or in special places (like close to water or forest).

 Common NOCs Needed:

•   Society NOC (for apartments).
•   Bank NOC (if there’s a mortgage).
•   Environmental NOC (if it’s in green area).

Missing NOCs can lead to future legal complications.

 

7. Mutation Register Extract (Khata Certificate & Extract)

Website Reference: Karnataka One, TS Registration

The Khata Certificate & Extract matters loads in regions like Karnataka and Maharashtra, linking the house to city records for paying taxes.

Why It’s Necessary:

•   Needed for getting lights and water.
•   Helps in future property resale.
•   Proves legal recognition by local authorities.

·         Make sure the Khata gets your name after you buy.

 

Think on This Before Getting Property

Before signing any deal, cross-verify:

✅ Title Deed – Ownership proof.
✅ Encumbrance Certificate – No legal dues.
✅ Property Tax Receipts – No pending taxes.
✅ Building Plan & OC – Legal construction.
✅ Sale Agreement – Clear terms & conditions.
✅ NOCs – Approvals from authorities.
✅ Khata Certificate – Municipal recognition.

 

Conclusion

Buying a spot without checking these papers might bring big problems, right? Like, imagine the stress? Check with a property lawyer or realtor before making the big move. Doing your homework means a smooth sail toward owning your corner of the world. Isn’t that what you want, after all? But hey, what do you think? What’s been your experience with property papers?

For further legal guidance, visit:

·         Legal Services India

·         RERA Official Website

By ensuring all documents are in order, you safeguard your investment and enjoy hassle-free ownership.