Home Buying Checklist India: Documents to Verify Before Paying a Token

Buying a home involves legal, financial and practical checks that should happen before a token payment becomes difficult to recover. Documents and requirements vary by state, project type and transaction, so buyers should not rely only on a brochure, verbal assurance or a seller’s summary.

Verify the seller and title

Ask for the documents establishing ownership and review the chain of title, encumbrances and any relevant litigation or restrictions. The exact records needed depend on the property and local law. Engage an independent property lawyer to review documents rather than relying solely on the seller’s representative.

Check approvals and project information

For applicable projects, verify registration and disclosures on the relevant state RERA authority’s official portal. Review sanctioned plans, completion or occupancy documents where applicable, land-use status and approvals from relevant authorities. Compare the advertised configuration with the official documents.

Read the token and payment terms

Get a written receipt and clear agreement stating the property details, amount, deadline, conditions for refund or forfeiture, and what happens if due diligence identifies a problem. Do not transfer money to an unrelated account or rely on an informal message as the only record.

Budget beyond the sale price

Include stamp duty, registration, taxes where applicable, legal review, maintenance deposits, parking, utility connections, repairs and loan-related costs. Ask the lender about valuation, processing fees and conditions before assuming the loan will be approved.

Inspect the property and neighbourhood

Check construction quality, water and power arrangements, access roads, drainage, maintenance responsibilities and actual carpet area. Visit at different times if practical and review commute and essential services.

For project-specific regulatory information, consult the relevant state RERA portal and official government records. This checklist is general information, not a substitute for independent legal and financial advice.

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