It is natural to find a flat sample picture-perfect. Promises made in brochures will range from smooth handing over of the flat to premium specifications and finishes. However, how does the finished house look like? To prevent yourself from the troubles of the future, you need to investigate a builder’s reputation before booking an apartment in Kochi.
Look Into Whether the Previous Projects Are Delivered in Time
The first thing you need to do is investigate the previous projects of the builder. Cross-check the possession dates provided in the documents of the company with the actual dates of the handing over and understand the reasons for the delays experienced by previous buyer on the website of the Kerala RERA, you can find information concerning the completed projects, their statuses, projected dates of completion and project progression reports. Do your investigation about the projects developed by the builder, and not about the project which you were told about by the sales department.
Look into a Completed Project
It is impossible to trust the photographs. If possible, visit the house built by the builder. Look at the condition of the common zones, lifts, parking, and amenities. Inquire about the maintenance services, water supply, construction quality and reaction to the complaints received after handing over the apartments. Such step is especially important if you consider buying luxury flats in Kochi, because finishing and maintenance services play a great role in owning such kind of house.
Verify the Registration and Approval Statuses of the Promoter
In the case of an under-construction property, you need to check the registration on the website of the Kerala Real Estate Regulatory Authority. Find the approved plans, land details, project status and declared dates of completion. You can also make research about all the relevant decisions and complaints concerning the project or the developer to present the building permit and all other relevant approvals. If a builder is unable to provide clear documents, it is better not to make any payment.
Understand How Does the Builder Guarantee High-Quality Construction and Provide Maintenance Services
Ask about the materials and specifications which the builder promised to provide. Make sure they coincide with the agreement and the property.
Enquire About the Construction Standards and Post Sales Services.
For the luxury apartments in Kochi, it is best to be aware of the finer points like the standards of waterproofing, plumbing and electricity fittings, along with those of the common areas. It is not sufficient just to enquire about higher finish materials.
Look for the Occupancy Certificate
In case of ready to occupy flats in Kochi, it would be wise to obtain the Occupancy Certificate (OC) and ensure that it is valid from the relevant authority. Moreover, it is necessary to make sure that the building built matches the sanctioned drawings with availability of basic utilities.
Though it may appear impressive that a building appears to be completed, one must bear in mind that there may not be many formalities for completion of the project done yet. K-RERA regulations require that the promoter will have to upload the relevant certificate of completion.
Examine the Agreement Carefully Prior to Payment
It is imperative to examine the agreement for sale. Examine the overall cost, payment schedule, possession conditions and specifications among other things. In case of any ambiguity, one must get a property lawyer to examine the documents.
Ultimately, it should be seen whether the reputation of the builder is able to hold its ground when examined by cross-checking of documents, meeting with existing residents and all other aspects.