A resale home can be a smart buy, but only if the paperwork is clean. Ask for the documents below before you pay any token amount, and have a lawyer read them.
Ownership and title
Ask for the sale deed and the chain of earlier deeds that led to it. The seller's name must match the owner on record. If the property was inherited, ask for the relevant legal heir documents.
Khata and tax
Check whether the property has an A khata or a B khata, because this affects bank loans and future resale. Ask for the latest property tax receipt and an up-to-date khata extract.
Encumbrance and approvals
An encumbrance certificate shows whether the property is mortgaged or under dispute. Also confirm the building plan approval, the occupancy certificate and, for apartments, the society's no-dues letter.
Before you sign
Visit the property at different times of day, speak to neighbours, and agree the payment schedule in writing. An advisor can run these checks with you.
