Buyer guide · By Konark Sharma, LLB
Luxury property buying checklist for Surat
Twelve checks to complete before you pay more than the booking amount on a luxury flat in Surat. Written from a legal-first perspective.
1. Verify Gujarat RERA registration
Search the project on gujrera.gujarat.gov.in. Match the registration number, promoter name, approved plan and committed possession date with what the sales team told you.
2. Read the latest quarterly progress report
RERA-registered projects file progress updates. Compare actual construction with the brochure timeline.
3. Check the title
Ask for the title search report and the chain of documents. For higher-value purchases, have an independent advocate verify the title, not only the builder's lawyer.
4. Confirm approvals
Development permission from the Surat Municipal Corporation (or SUDA, depending on jurisdiction), approved building plans and environmental clearance where applicable.
5. Check BU permission for ready homes
BU (Building Use) permission confirms the building can be occupied. Do not take possession of a ready flat without it.
6. Compare on RERA carpet area
Ask for the RERA carpet area of the exact unit, in writing. Ignore super built-up comparisons.
7. Get an all-inclusive cost sheet
Base price, floor rise, PLC, GST, stamp duty, registration, maintenance deposit, development and club charges — in one document.
8. Understand the payment plan
Construction-linked plans are safer than time-linked plans. Match each milestone to a verifiable stage.
9. Plan for TDS
Deduct 1% TDS under Section 194-IA when the consideration is ₹50 lakh or more, and file Form 26QB for each payment.
10. Review the agreement for sale
Check possession date, delay compensation, specification schedule, parking allotment, cancellation terms and defect liability period.
11. Check the builder's track record
Visit a delivered project. Speak to residents about construction quality and how the builder handled possession.
12. Confirm home loan approval
If you are taking a loan, check that major banks have approved the project — it is a useful independent check.
Download-ready summary
- Verify Gujarat RERA registration
- Read the latest quarterly progress report
- Check the title
- Confirm approvals
- Check BU permission for ready homes
- Compare on RERA carpet area
- Get an all-inclusive cost sheet
- Understand the payment plan
- Plan for TDS
- Review the agreement for sale
- Check the builder's track record
- Confirm home loan approval
Frequently asked questions
How do I check if a project in Surat is RERA registered?
Visit gujrera.gujarat.gov.in, search the project name or registration number, and review the registration certificate, approved plans, possession date and quarterly progress reports.
What is BU permission in Surat?
BU (Building Use) permission is issued by the Surat Municipal Corporation after construction is completed and inspected. It confirms the building can be occupied. Do not take possession of a flat without it.
Is GST payable on a ready-to-move flat?
No GST is payable on a completed flat once the completion certificate / BU permission has been issued. GST applies to under-construction flats.
Do I need to deduct TDS when buying a flat?
Yes. Under Section 194-IA of the Income-tax Act, the buyer must deduct 1% TDS on payments when the total consideration is ₹50 lakh or more, and deposit it using Form 26QB.
This guide is general information, not legal or tax advice. Rates and rules change; confirm current stamp duty, registration and tax requirements with official sources or a professional before you transact.