How to Analyze a Property Before Buying: A Step-by-Step Checklist

The Complete Property Analysis Checklist

Before you sign that agreement, run through this checklist. It covers everything from legal due diligence to financial analysis.

Legal Verification

• ☐ RERA registration valid and matching project details
• ☐ Clear title deed with no disputes or litigation
• ☐ Encumbrance Certificate (EC) for last 30 years — no loans or claims
• ☐ GHMC/HMDA building approval matching actual construction
• ☐ Occupancy Certificate (for ready properties)
• ☐ Land conversion order (agricultural to non-agricultural)
• ☐ No-objection certificates from fire, pollution, and water boards

Location Analysis

• ☐ Distance to workplace (actual commute, not Google Maps off-peak)
• ☐ Nearest metro/bus stop within walking distance
• ☐ Schools within 3 km (check ratings)
• ☐ Hospital within 5 km
• ☐ Supermarket/daily needs within 1 km
• ☐ Not in a flood-prone zone (check GHMC flood map)
• ☐ Upcoming infrastructure projects (check master plan)
• ☐ Noise levels acceptable (not near highway/railway/airport path)

Construction Quality

• ☐ Wall thickness (min 6" for external, 4.5" for internal)
• ☐ Floor-to-ceiling height (min 9.5 feet for comfortable living)
• ☐ Waterproofing in bathrooms and terrace
• ☐ Electrical wiring quality (branded, ISI-marked)
• ☐ Plumbing fixtures quality
• ☐ Window quality (check for air/water leaks)
• ☐ Tile and flooring quality
• ☐ Paint quality and finish

Financial Analysis

• ☐ Compare price per sq ft with 3-4 nearby projects
• ☐ Calculate total cost (base + registration + GST + interior + maintenance)
• ☐ EMI affordable at under 35% of take-home salary
• ☐ Down payment doesn't exhaust your emergency fund
• ☐ Check resale prices of similar units (on property portals)
• ☐ Calculate rental yield (if investment property)
• ☐ Factor in 1-2 years of maintenance if under-construction

Builder Verification

• ☐ Track record: Previous projects delivered on time?
• ☐ Quality: Visit an older project and talk to residents
• ☐ Financial health: Check for any NCLT/insolvency proceedings
• ☐ Online reviews and complaints
• ☐ RERA compliance history

Red Flags to Walk Away From

• Builder refuses to show approvals
• Pressure to pay cash "to save on registration"
• Significant deviation from approved plan
• Multiple pending legal cases against the builder
• No OC after 3+ years of completion