How to Buy a Flat in Pune: A 10-Step Checklist for First-Time Buyers

Buying a flat is likely the biggest financial decision you will make. Pune offers excellent options across Kharadi, Wagholi, Hinjewadi, Baner and Hadapsar — but a good purchase comes from a good process. Use this 10-step checklist before you pay a booking amount.

1. Fix your real budget

The listed price is only part of the cost. Add stamp duty and registration charges (as per current Maharashtra rates), GST where applicable on under-construction homes, parking, society maintenance deposits, brokerage if any, and interiors. A simple rule: keep your EMI comfortably within what you can pay even if expenses rise.

2. Choose the right location

Shortlist two or three areas based on your daily commute, school options, hospitals and future infrastructure. Visit them at peak traffic hours before deciding. Our area comparison guide can help.

3. Check MahaRERA registration

Every eligible residential project in Maharashtra must be registered with MahaRERA. Ask for the project's registration number and verify it on the official MahaRERA website. Check the promised possession date and the developer's past delivery record.

4. Verify title and approvals

Ask for the title documents, approved building plan, commencement certificate and, for ready homes, the occupancy certificate. Have an independent advocate run a title search. Never rely only on verbal assurances.

5. Understand carpet area

Under RERA, flats are sold on carpet area — the usable space inside the walls. Compare homes on carpet area and price per square foot, not on "saleable" or "super built-up" figures alone.

6. Visit the site more than once

Visit in daytime and evening. Check water supply, ventilation, noise, parking, lift quality and the state of the surroundings. For an under-construction project, look at construction progress and the quality of material in use.

7. Arrange your home loan

Get a pre-approval so you know your eligibility before negotiating. Compare interest rates, processing fees and prepayment terms across banks. Read our home loan basics guide.

8. Read the agreement for sale

Check the payment schedule, possession date, penalty clauses, parking allotment and the list of amenities promised. Ask your advocate to review it before you sign.

9. Register the agreement

Pay stamp duty and register the agreement at the sub-registrar office. Keep copies of every receipt, the payment schedule and all correspondence.

10. Inspect before possession

Before accepting possession, check plumbing, electrical points, doors, windows, tiles and paint. Note every defect in writing and ask the builder to fix it. Collect the society formation and utility transfer documents.