HOME BUYING GUIDE: A Practical, Buyer-First Handbook

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09 September 2025
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Overview

Buying a home is one of the most important decisions you’ll ever make. Whether you’re taking your first step into ownership or looking to upgrade, this guide breaks down everything you need to know most understandably. If you are on your journey to buy a home or exploring the market for future prospects, this blog will help you understand the entire process.

Home buying is an experience that often happens once in a lifetime. However, to ensure the transaction takes place safely and without a glitch, you must be well-versed in the steps that take place throughout this extensive journey. From research to registration and payment to possession, every step is crucial and must be taken with precaution. In this blog, we cover all the steps you need to take when buying a home.

ESSENTIAL CHECKPOINTS

The essential checkpoints mean the critical information you must obtain about the respective property before any transaction. By obtaining this information, you will be able to assess the real value of the property and its worth to you. Since buying a home is a long-term commitment due to extensive funding, it is essential to know what you are getting into and get answers to all your questions that may come up in the next 15-20 years.

  • Percentage of Open Spaces
    BPTP is committed to promoting sustainable living across all its projects. The project master plans ensure generous open spaces, including landscaped greens, community gardens, and unbuilt areas, throughout our projects. The percentage of open spaces varies depending on the project type, concept, and other variable factors.
  • Can I Customise My Home?
    You can customise your interiors, provided it doesn’t interfere with the structural integrity of the building. Always consult our team or certified architects before making any internal changes.
  • Standard Floor-to-Ceiling Height
    Most BPTP built-up projects feature homes with a floor-to-ceiling height of between 9 and 11 feet, which enhances ventilation and visual space. Select towers and premium categories may offer even more.
  • Combining Multiple Apartments
    Yes, several BPTP projects offer the option to combine units. This is subject to structural feasibility and must be approved by our planning and engineering team.
  • Connectivity Considerations
    We strategically develop in well-connected zones, offering easy access to expressways, metro routes, schools, hospitals, and retail hubs—so daily commutes and spontaneous plans are hassle-free.
  • Parking Facilities & EV Provisions
    From stilt to podium to MLCP (Multi-Level Car Parking), BPTP projects offer well-planned parking layouts. EV charging points are being incorporated across new developments.
  • Use of Solar Energy
    Our IGBC-certified projects incorporate solar energy in several areas, helping to reduce long-term maintenance costs.
  • Senior & Specially-Abled Friendly Design
    Barrier-free access, ramps, grab bars, and designated seating areas for seniors are part of BPTP’s inclusive design philosophy.
  • Pet Friendly Communities
    Yes, BPTP townships are pet-friendly, with many having designated pet areas.
  • Pre-Society Management
    Until society formation, we manage the property through best-in-class facilities management practices, regular audits, and preventive maintenance protocols.
  • Earthquake-Resistant Construction
    All our structures comply with seismic codes as per the National Building Code and applicable IS standards.
  • Green Building Certification
    BPTP has been developing its projects with sustainable living in mind, promoting this lifestyle across all its projects. Projects such as BPTP Capital City, Discovery Park, BPTP GAIA, BPTP Amstoria Verti-Greens, and many more are IGBC certified.

DOCUMENT CHECKLIST

Once you have confirmed everything about the property and it matches your requirements, not for today, but for years to come, you may advance to the next step. This step involves identifying documents that will be involved during your home-buying journey:

  • Agreement for Sale

An agreement for Sale is a legal document outlining the terms of the buyer and seller, and confirming the intent to sell.

  • Completion Certificate (CC) & Occupancy Certificate (OC)
    Issued by the competent authority. The Completion Certificate (CC) confirms that the project complies with the approved plans, while the Occupancy Certificate (OC) confirms that the project is ready for habitation.
  • Documents Required For Booking
  • PAN, Aadhar, Address Proof
  • Booking Form
  • Price Sheet & Booking Cheque
  • Sanction Letter (if under loan)
  • Channel Partner Form (if applicable)
  • Documents Registration
  • PAN, Aadhar, Address Proof
  • Passport-size photographs
  • Agreement for Sale copy
  • Stamp Duty Challan, Index II, Registration Fee slip
  • Documents At The Time Of Possession:
  • Possession Letter
  • Car Park Letter
  • Apartment Manual with vendor contacts and warranties

Additionally, several other documents may be required, depending on the buyer’s profile, such as NRI, co-ownership, and others.

MANAGING FINANCES & LOANS

Arguably, the most critical part of the home-buying journey is managing finances and loans. Before you proceed with the booking amount or EOIs, it is crucial to know:

  • Loan Eligibility
    Banks offer 75%-90% of the agreement value. The approval and amount are based on the creditor’s profile and other factors.
  • Associated Banks
    BPTP projects are pre-approved with major banks for quick and hassle-free disbursement.
  • Loan Processing Timelines
    Salaried: 5–7 days | Self-employed: 7–10 days
    Note: These dates are subject to vary depending on the bank’s policies.
  • Pre-Approved Loan
    Issued based on income and CIBIL score, pre-approval helps you shortlist faster.
  • EMI vs Pre-EMI
    EMI includes principal + interest. Pre-EMI includes only interest (during the under-construction phase).
  • Home Loan Tax Benefits
    Up to ₹2 lakh on interest and ₹1.5 lakh on principal under Income Tax provisions.
    Note: These provisions are subject to change as per government policies
  • What is a Credit Score and How do I check it?
    A credit score is a rating system used by credit information companies, such as CIBIL, to determine your creditworthiness. You can go to your bank’s website and submit your details to check your current credit score.

PRICING & BUDGET CALCULATOR

Besides the property prices, many other hidden or unforeseen costs are involved in the transaction. A wise homebuyer must also take these costs into account to avoid any surprises in the near or far future:

  • Maintenance Charges
    The maintenance charges are a cumulative cost to maintain and develop the common facilities used by the residents of the project/township. These charges include facility maintenance, service cost, facility management, periodic repairs and services, AMCs and more.
  • Taxes & Statutory Payments
    While buying a property, you will need to pay GST (as per the slab), TDS (if applicable), and property tax post-possession.

Note: all these charges will be documented in your price sheet.

  • Stamp Duty & Registration
    Stamp duty and registration charges for the property vary depending on the respective state and city, as well as the customer’s profile. These charges are payable at the time of registration.
  • Club Membership
    Club membership charges may be included or billed separately, depending on the respective project offering.
  • Conveyance Deed
    Applicable in most states at the stage of society formation or land transfer.
  • Car Parking Cost
    Standard car park charges are part of the cost sheet. Additional slots are often chargeable.
  • Other Charges to Account For
  • Meter Charges (Water, Gas, Electricity)
  • Legal Fees
  • Corpus Fund & Society Formation Charges
  • AMC/Facility Management

REAL ESTATE GLOSSARY

Here are some of the most valuable and essential words you must know about while exploring the real estate market for home buying.

  • Commencement Certificate: Approval to begin construction.
  • Completion Certificate: Issued upon project completion as per approved plans.
  • Conveyance Deed: Legal transfer of property rights from the developer to the buyer or society.
  • Encumbrance Certificate: Confirms the property is free of legal dues or mortgages.
  • NOC (No Objection Certificate): Issued by relevant authorities confirming no objections.
  • Occupation Certificate (OC): Issued by the relevant authorities that confirms the property is habitable and compliant with all safety and regulatory norms.
  • Property Card: Government record of ownership and past transfers.
  • IGBC Certification: Indian Green Building Council’s green rating based on energy, water, and material use.

Additional Buyer Insights

A straightforward breakdown of key factors most first-time homebuyers overlook.

Under-construction vs Ready-to-move-in

Under-construction homes are usually more affordable and come with staggered payment plans. They offer good appreciation potential but require patience as possession is tied to the construction timeline. Always check the RERA registration and committed delivery date before booking.

Ready-to-move-in homes allow you to move in immediately. You get exactly what you see, but the price is often higher than that of units under construction. The payment plan can be more challenging and may be more expensive compared to projects that are under construction.

Site Visit: What to Check

  • Connectivity: Is the approach road wide enough for vehicles? How close is public transport?
  • Surrounding Area: Are daily needs—like schools, hospitals, shops—within reach?
  • Construction Finish: Look at tiles, fittings, and alignment of doors and windows.
  • Light & Airflow: Visit during the day to assess natural lighting and ventilation.
  • Noise Levels: Visit at different times to check for traffic or surrounding noise.
  • Amenities: Are promised facilities like a club, gym, or gardens ready or under construction?
  • Security: Look for CCTV, guards, access controls, and fire safety features.
  • Staff Conduct: Interact with on-site staff to assess how the place is run.

Primary vs Resale Market

Primary market (new projects):

  • Clean title and updated documents.
  • Builder warranties on construction quality.
  • Transparent, GST-inclusive pricing.

Resale market (pre-owned units):

  • Possibly better price or location.
  • Needs deeper paperwork checks—ensure no dues, loans, or disputes.
  • Verify original sale deed, chain of title, OC, and utility bill status.

Allotment Letter vs Agreement for Sale

An Allotment Letter is issued after booking. It mentions flat number, project, and payment terms. Needed for loan processing, but not a legal proof of ownership.

An Agreement for Sale is a registered document that outlines all the terms of purchase, including the carpet area, price schedule, delivery date, and the obligations of both the buyer and the seller. It’s legally binding and required for registration and loan disbursement.

Legal Checks for Resale Properties

  • Sale Deed: Confirms seller owns the property.
  • Encumbrance Certificate: Confirms no loan or legal claim is attached.
  • No Dues Certificate: Shows that builder or society payments are clear.
  • Mutation Entry: Confirms property transfer in government records.
  • Utility Bills: Ensure all property taxes and services are paid up to date.

Thoughtful Questions to Ask Yourself

  • Have I factored in all costs—not just sale price, but taxes, registration, and maintenance?
  • Is the location strong in terms of future resale or rental value?
  • Am I confident in the builder’s delivery record?
  • Have I had all documents legally verified?
  • Will this home suit my needs not just now, but in the next 5–10 years?

For more assistance or a personal walkthrough, connect with our sales team. We’re here to help you make the most informed decision of your life—with clarity, confidence, and peace of mind.

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