Buying properties in Chennai is a major financial decision. With rapid development in residential areas and growing interest in real estate, many buyers are looking to invest here. But in this process, people tend to make certain mistakes that could result in legal trouble or financial loss.
Let us look at the most common mistakes buyers make when purchasing properties in Chennai and how to avoid them.
Not Verifying Property Ownership
This is one of the most critical mistakes. Many people do not properly verify whether the seller is the actual owner of the property. Sometimes, the person selling may be a legal heir or just a power of attorney holder.
Before going ahead with the purchase, ask for all ownership documents and cross-check them with local records. Visit the Sub-Registrar’s office if needed. A simple oversight can cause major problems later.
Ignoring Patta, Chitta, and Adangal Documents
These land-related documents are important in Tamil Nadu. A Patta document shows who owns the land. Chitta helps confirm whether the land is for agriculture or residential use. Adangal contains details like survey number, land size, and usage.
When people buy properties in Chennai without checking these records, they may end up buying agricultural land or face zoning issues. Ask for all three documents and confirm the details with the Revenue Department.
Buying Without CMDA or DTCP Approval
The Chennai Metropolitan Development Authority (CMDA) and Directorate of Town and Country Planning (DTCP) are the planning bodies that approve layouts. Many buyers purchase plots or houses without checking these approvals.
If a layout is not approved, the building may not get electricity or water connections. Even worse, it can be demolished in the future for violating planning rules. Always check if the layout or property has proper approval before purchasing.
Not Checking for Encumbrance Certificate
An encumbrance certificate (EC) shows whether the property is free from legal or financial liabilities. It includes details of previous transactions and any loans or legal claims on the property.
Buyers who skip checking this certificate might end up with a property under litigation or with unpaid loans. You can get the EC online or from the Sub-Registrar’s office. Check for a minimum of the past 15 years to be safe.
Trusting Verbal Promises
Some buyers take the builder or seller’s word and do not ask for written confirmation. They agree to conditions verbally and later realize they were misled. Verbal commitments about possession dates, property size, car parking, or added facilities can go unfulfilled.
Get every promise in writing through the agreement. If the seller refuses to put it in writing, it is better to walk away.
Skipping Legal Opinion
Legal verification of property documents is often ignored to save money. But this is a mistake. Legal issues can remain hidden in documents that appear valid.
Hire a property lawyer and get all documents verified. It may cost some money upfront, but it can protect you from long-term trouble.
Falling for Low Prices
Some people buy properties in Chennai simply because the price is lower than the market rate. These properties may have issues like lack of approval, land disputes, or be located in restricted areas.
Do not rush into a deal just because the price is attractive. Do a background check and understand why the property is cheaper. In most cases, the low price comes with hidden risks.
Ignoring Water and Sewage Facilities
Buyers often check for location, size, and budget but forget to check basic utilities like water supply and sewage connections. Many parts of Chennai still depend on water tankers or have poor drainage systems.
Check whether the property has a proper water connection, borewell options, and sewage lines. Talk to neighbors or visit the location during rainy days to assess flooding or stagnation.
Not Visiting the Property Site
Some buyers rely completely on online listings or real estate agents and do not visit the site themselves. Photos may not reflect the actual state of the property.
Visit the site at different times of the day. Check the roads, nearby amenities, and overall surroundings. A personal visit gives a better idea than online photos or videos.
No Clarity on UDS (Undivided Share)
For apartments and flats, UDS refers to the share of land you get in the total land area. Many buyers are not aware of this concept or do not ask about it.
A higher UDS is beneficial because it gives more value in the future, especially during redevelopment. Ask for UDS details clearly in the agreement.
Rushing into the Deal
Real estate decisions made in haste often lead to regret. Sometimes agents pressure buyers by saying the property is in high demand or prices will increase soon. Buyers panic and skip due diligence.
Take your time to verify every document, talk to multiple sources, and compare other options. Rushing can lead to choosing the wrong property or paying more than necessary.
Not Factoring in Additional Costs
Apart from the property cost, there are many other charges such as stamp duty, registration fees, legal consultation, interior work, and maintenance deposits. Some buyers don’t plan for these and fall short on the budget.
Create a complete cost estimate before finalizing the deal. This will give a clear idea of what you are really spending.
Conclusion
Buying properties in Chennai can be a sound investment if done carefully. Most of the mistakes happen due to lack of verification or skipping important steps in the buying process. Spend time to cross-check documents, ask the right questions, and get help from experts when required. By avoiding the above mistakes, you can buy a property with peace of mind and avoid future complications.
