Booking a flat is one of the biggest financial decisions most families make, and in Gujarat, the single most important safeguard you have as a buyer is RERA (Real Estate Regulatory Authority) registration. Yet many first-time buyers still sign a booking form without checking the basics. Here's exactly what to verify before you pay a rupee.
1. Check the Project's RERA Registration Number
Every residential project above a certain size in Gujarat must be registered with GujRERA before the builder can advertise, market, or accept bookings. Ask the builder for the RERA registration number and verify it independently on the official GujRERA website — don't just take a printed brochure's word for it. A valid RERA number confirms the project's land title, approved layout, and completion timeline are on record with the regulator.
2. Match the Carpet Area, Not Just "Super Built-up"
RERA made it mandatory for builders to quote price based on carpet area (the actual usable floor space inside your walls), not the inflated "super built-up area" that used to include shared lobbies, stairs, and common walls. When comparing two properties, always ask for the carpet area figure — it's the number that tells you what you're really paying per square foot.
3. Verify the Promised Possession Date
The possession date quoted in the RERA registration is a legal commitment, not a marketing estimate. If a builder delays possession beyond the RERA-registered date, buyers are entitled to compensation or a refund with interest under the RERA Act. Cross-check the possession date on the RERA certificate against what the sales team tells you verbally.
4. Ask About the Escrow Account
RERA requires builders to deposit at least 70% of buyer payments into a separate escrow account, used only for construction and land costs of that specific project. This is designed to stop builders from diverting your money to other projects. It's a fair question to ask directly: "Which bank holds the project's RERA escrow account?"
5. Read the Builder-Buyer Agreement Carefully
Don't rely on verbal promises. The builder-buyer agreement should clearly state the carpet area, price, payment schedule, possession date, penalty clauses for delay, and what happens if either side wants to cancel. If a broker or sales executive tells you "we'll add that later," treat it as a warning sign.
6. Check Approvals Beyond RERA
RERA registration doesn't replace the need for other approvals — confirm the project also has a sanctioned building plan from the local municipal authority (AMC in Ahmedabad), a valid land title, and NOC from relevant departments (fire safety, environment, etc. where applicable) depending on project size.
7. Avoid Cash Components and Brokerage Pressure
Any request to pay a portion "in cash" outside the official agreement is both a legal and financial risk — it isn't covered by RERA protections and complicates resale or loan documentation later. Similarly, be wary of brokers pushing you toward a specific project for a high commission rather than what genuinely fits your needs.
How RealShree Helps
Every listing on RealShree is checked for RERA registration before it goes live, and we don't charge brokerage — you deal directly with the verified owner or builder. If you're currently comparing options, you can browse RERA-verified properties in Ahmedabad or use our EMI calculator to plan your budget before you shortlist a project.
This article is for general information and does not constitute legal advice. Always verify project-specific details directly with GujRERA and consult a property lawyer before signing any agreement.
