⚠️ Common Types of Real Estate Fraud in India
Before learning how to avoid fraud, it’s important to know how fraud happens:
- Selling property without clear ownership
- Fake or duplicate property documents
- Selling disputed or mortgaged land
- Unapproved or illegal construction
- False promises about price, size, or amenities
- Fraudulent brokers or middlemen
Awareness is your first line of protection.
✅ 1. Verify Property Ownership Thoroughly
Always confirm who legally owns the property.
Check these documents carefully:
- Sale Deed
- Mother Deed (ownership history)
- Title Deed
Make sure:
- The seller’s name matches all documents
- There are no legal disputes or claims
👉 Never rely only on verbal assurances.
✅ 2. Check Land Records & Encumbrance Certificate
An Encumbrance Certificate (EC) confirms whether the property has:
- Loans
- Mortgages
- Legal dues
You should also verify land records from the local land revenue office or online state portals.
If a seller avoids sharing these documents, consider it a red flag 🚩.
✅ 3. Confirm Project Approval & Registration
For flats and housing projects, always check if the project is registered under Real Estate Regulatory Authority (RERA).
Why RERA matters:
- Protects buyers’ rights
- Ensures transparency
- Reduces chances of fraud
You can verify project details on your state’s RERA website