The open-plot buying checklist: 20 checks before you pay

Location

• You have read the location profile and know the corridor’s drivers and risks.
• You have measured the real travel time to places you care about.
• You know which authority has jurisdiction over the village today.

Approval

• You have the layout permission number, date and issuing authority.
• You verified it with the authority, not just the brochure.
• The approval is final, not draft or “in process”.
• Your plot number is on the approved plan and is not mortgaged to the authority.
• RERA registration is checked where the project is covered.

Title and records

• Current sale deed and link documents covering roughly 30 years.
• Encumbrance certificate with no unreleased mortgage.
• Revenue records show the seller (or the layout owner) as owner, with the right land classification.
• Proof that agricultural land was converted for non-agricultural use.
• An independent lawyer has reviewed everything.

On site

• Plot boundaries and stones match the plan.
• Approach road is public or legally guaranteed, and wide enough.
• No lake, stream, high-tension line or industrial unit too close.
• Development works promised are visible, or have dated commitments.

Agreement

• Payment schedule is tied to milestones.
• Registration date and cancellation terms are written down.
• Nothing important is promised only verbally.