10 Things to Check Before Signing Any Property Agreement in Pune

Abhi Raundal Teerth March 19, 2026

10 min read

Why Checking a Property Agreement in Pune Is Important?

Buying a property in Pune is one of the most important financial decisions a person makes, especially with the city expanding rapidly in areas like Hinjewadi, Baner, Wakad, and Kharadi. While buyers often focus on location, pricing, and amenities, the most critical step in the entire process is signing the property agreement. This document is not just paperwork, it is a legal contract that defines your ownership, payment obligations, possession timeline, and rights as a buyer.

In today’s real estate environment, professionals like Abhi Raundal, Director at Teerth Realties, often highlight that most disputes and buyer complaints arise because agreements are not properly understood. His experience across project execution and customer interactions shows that a little extra time spent reviewing documents can prevent years of stress later.

1. Verify Property Title and Ownership

Before signing any agreement, the first thing you need to confirm is whether the seller actually owns the property and has the legal right to sell it. This may sound obvious, but many buyers overlook the importance of verifying ownership documents. A clear property title means there are no disputes, no inheritance issues, and no legal complications attached to the property. You should also check the ownership history for the past 10–15 years to ensure that the property has been transferred properly at every stage. If the title is not clear, you could face serious legal issues even after paying for the property, which is why this step should never be skipped.

2. Check RERA Registration

RERA (Real Estate Regulatory Authority) was introduced to bring transparency and accountability to the real estate sector. When a project is RERA-registered, it means that the developer has submitted all required approvals and project details to the authority. As a buyer, you can verify this information online, including project timelines, approvals, and progress status. This gives you confidence that the project is genuine and reduces the chances of delays or fraud. In simple terms, RERA acts as a safety layer for buyers, ensuring that developers follow proper rules and deliver what they promise.

3. Read the Agreement Carefully

Property agreements are often long and filled with technical language, which is why many buyers tend to skim through them. However, this is one of the biggest mistakes you can make. The agreement includes crucial details such as how much you need to pay and when, what happens if the project gets delayed, what penalties apply, and what your rights are if you want to cancel the deal. Even a small clause can have a big impact later. It is always better to take your time, read everything carefully, and ask questions if something is unclear. If needed, take help from a legal expert to fully understand the document before signing.

4. Confirm Land Use and Approvals

Another important aspect is checking whether the land on which the project is built has proper approvals from local authorities. This includes building plan approval, zoning clearance, and land use permission. For example, a residential project should be built on land approved for residential use. If a project lacks proper approvals, it can lead to legal complications, fines, or even demolition in extreme cases. As a buyer, ensuring that all approvals are in place gives you peace of mind and protects your investment.

5. Check Encumbrance Certificate

An encumbrance certificate is a document that tells you whether the property has any financial or legal liabilities. In simple words, it shows if the property is under a loan, mortgage, or any legal claim. If you buy a property that has pending dues or loans, you could become responsible for those liabilities. This is why checking the encumbrance certificate is very important. It ensures that the property is financially clean and safe to purchase.

6. Understand Total Cost and Hidden Charges

Many buyers focus only on the base price of the property, but the actual cost is often much higher. There are several additional charges such as stamp duty, registration fees, GST, maintenance deposits, parking charges, and clubhouse fees. These costs can significantly increase your overall budget. Before signing the agreement, always ask for a detailed cost sheet that clearly mentions every expense. This helps you plan your finances better and avoids surprises later.

7. Evaluate Construction Quality

What you see in brochures or advertisements may not always match the actual construction quality. That’s why it is important to visit the project site or check a sample flat before signing the agreement. Look at the quality of materials, finishing, layout, and overall construction standards. A well-built property not only gives you better living comfort but also ensures long-term value. Ignoring this step can lead to dissatisfaction after possession.

8. Check Possession Timeline

The possession date is one of the most important parts of the agreement. It tells you when you will receive the property. However, delays are quite common in real estate projects. That’s why you should also check the delay clause, which mentions the compensation you will receive if the project is not completed on time. This is especially important if you are paying rent along with a home loan, as delays can create financial pressure. A clear timeline and penalty clause protect your interests.

9. Research the Developer

The developer’s reputation plays a major role in your property buying experience. Before signing the agreement, take some time to research the developer’s past projects. Check whether they delivered projects on time, the quality of construction, and customer reviews. A trustworthy developer is more likely to follow commitments and maintain transparency. This reduces risk and gives you confidence in your investment.

10. Ensure Proper Registration and Documentation

The final step is to ensure that the agreement is properly registered with the government authority and that the correct stamp duty is paid. Registration makes the agreement legally valid and protects your ownership rights. Without proper registration, your ownership may not be legally recognized. Always keep copies of all documents safely, as they will be important for future reference.

Insights from Abhi Raundal on Safe Property Agreements

According to Abhi Raundal Teerth Realties Director one of the most common mistakes buyers make is rushing into signing agreements without fully understanding them. Based on his experience at Teerth Realties, he believes that buyers should treat the agreement as the most important part of the buying process.

He emphasizes that three simple habits can make a big difference: taking time to read every clause, verifying all legal documents, and having complete clarity about financial commitments. These steps may seem basic, but they can prevent most of the issues buyers face later.

Why Following These Checks Protects Your Investment

Real estate is a long-term investment, and even a small mistake can lead to significant losses. By following these checks, you reduce the risk of legal disputes, hidden costs, and project delays. You also gain better control over your financial planning and avoid unnecessary stress.

When you verify documents, understand the agreement, and choose the right developer, you are not just buying a property, you are securing your future. These steps help you make confident decisions and ensure that your investment remains safe and valuable over time.

Conclusion

Signing a property agreement is one of the most important steps in the property buying journey. It is not just about completing a formality but about protecting your rights and investment. By carefully checking every detail and understanding the agreement, you can avoid common mistakes and make a smart decision.

With practical insights from Abhi Raundal, this guide provides a clear and simple approach to help you navigate property agreements in Pune with confidence.