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Safety Guide

Safety Guide - Avoid Real Estate Fraud

Beware - Use your Judgment

It is in the interests of a user to exercise his/her best judgment to assess properties' and owners' authenticity. The claims being made may or may not be correct, a user is therefore advised to independently verify the authenticity of the claims being made. To this end, we have compiled a checklist which may help a user avoid deceit. We recommend that all our users MUST go through the checklist (mentioned below) prior to purchasing or renting a house.

How to Avoid Real Estate Fraud?

  1. Avoid Online Payments Without Verification: Never transfer money online to a 'supposed landlord/owner' using UPI, net banking, debit/credit cards, etc., without meeting them in person.
  2. Refrain from Paying Charges Over a Call: We strongly advise against paying any property visit charges, gate pass fees, booking amounts, or similar expenses over the phone.
  3. Verify Broker Claims:If a broker is showing you the property, ensure you meet the actual owner in person or via a video call to confirm their identity.
  4. Direct Payments to the Owner: Do not hand over any part of the rent or consideration amount to the broker. All payments should be made directly to the verified owner.
  5. Check for Disputed Land Titles: Be cautious of properties with disputed titles. Ensure the property has a clear and legal title before proceeding.
  6. Be Skeptical of Unrealistic Returns:Be wary of real estate investments that promise high returns with minimal or no risk, especially those attributed to future infrastructure developments.
  7. Inspect the Property Personally: Visit the property in person to thoroughly check its interior and exterior conditions. Conduct all necessary due diligence to avoid any surprises.
  8. Ensure Comprehensive Visuals: Choose properties that provide at least 3-4 clear photographs of key areas such as bedrooms, bathrooms, and the kitchen.
  9. Know the Neighbourhood: Familiarize yourself with the neighbourhood before moving in. This helps in understanding the community and amenities available.
  10. Speak with Neighbours: Talk to some neighbours to gather information about the property and its surroundings. Confirm that the person showing you the property is indeed the legitimate owner.

For a Buyer/Investor

The buyer should independently verify and establish the authenticity of any property or project, including its title, built-up area (in standardized units), and suitability for purchase, through a method and at a cost deemed appropriate by the buyer.

HexaHome functions solely as an advertising platform and cannot guarantee the accuracy of the content on its site. Much of the content is uploaded directly by advertisers, and we do not filter or verify it. In the event of a complaint, we will take appropriate remedial measures.

Important Considerations:

  • Verify Ownership: Conduct a comprehensive check of ownership to verify the credentials of the developer or owner.
  • Personal Inspection: Visit the project site or property in person to ensure the broker's or developer's claims are genuine and that the property exists.
  • Reputable Builders:Choose a builder with a good track record. Reviewing the past projects and the reputation of the promoters can be beneficial.
  • Beware of False Documents:Be cautious of false title documents. Properties might have loans secured against them, be disputed, or have remained vacant for a long time.
  • Conduct Due Diligence: It is always advisable to conduct proper due diligence on the property before entering into any real estate transaction.
  • Understand FSI/FAR: Remember that common areas such as lobbies, parks, terraces, pools, gymnasiums, and elevators are not included in the Floor Space Index (FSI) or Floor Area Ratio (FAR).
  • Legal Compliance: Familiarize yourself with The Real Estate (Regulation and Development) Act, 2016, and its provisions as they apply to the project.

By following these guidelines, buyers can make informed decisions and reduce the risks associated with real estate transactions.

For a Tenant

  • Personal Visit and Meeting: Always visit the accommodation or property in person and meet the landlord to verify their identity and the property's authenticity.
  • Avoid Upfront Charges:We strongly advise against paying any property visit charges, gate pass fees, booking amounts, or similar expenses upfront.
  • Inspect Thoroughly for Issues: Check all rooms, including the kitchen and bathroom areas, for plumbing issues such as fixture leaks, seepages, clogged drains, and pipelines. Ensure there are no hidden problems that could cause future inconvenience.
  • Verify Security Deposit Requirements: Research the typical security deposit amounts in the area before making any payments. Be cautious of individuals who may demand unjustified or excessive amounts.
  • Ensure Accessibility and Safety: Confirm the property's access routes, safety measures, and overall security. Evaluate the neighborhood for its safety standards and convenience.
  • Standardized Unit Measurements: Make sure all property areas are measured and stated in standardized units to avoid any confusion or misrepresentation.

By adhering to these guidelines, you can ensure a safer and more informed property rental or purchase experience.

Disclaimer

  • HexaHome is a platform that facilitates interactions between parties with mutual interests in real estate transactions, such as buyers, tenants, owners, and brokers.
  • HexaHome serves as an initial medium for contact and information exchange. Users are strongly advised to conduct independent third-party verifications (regardless of whether the listing is marked as verified) before proceeding with any real estate transactions. The responsibility for identifying a genuine property, whether for purchase or rental, rests with the user.
  • For further information, please review the Terms and Conditions &Privacy Policy governing the use of HexaHome.