Thinking about buying your own flat? That’s exciting! But before you jump in, it’s very important to have the right documents ready. Without them, getting a home loan can be difficult, or worse, you might face legal problems later.
Here’s a simple list of what you need to buy a flat smoothly, especially if you’re buying a new flat from a builder.

Documents You Must Have When Buying a Flat
1. Sale Deed
This is the most important document. It proves that the builder or seller truly owns the flat they’re selling to you.
2. Mother Deed / Title Deed
This shows the history of who owned the property before. It confirms that the ownership is clear and legal.
3. RERA Registration Certificate
If you’re buying a new flat, always check for the RERA registration. This certificate means the project is approved and legal. It protects you from fraud.
4. Approved Building Plan
The flat should be built as per the approved plan by the local authorities. This document proves the construction is legal.
5. Encumbrance Certificate (EC)
This certificate shows that the flat has no loans or legal claims against it.
6. Property Tax Receipts
Make sure the builder or seller has paid the latest property taxes.
7. Possession Certificate
When you buy a new flat, this certificate shows the builder has officially handed over the property to you.
8. No Objection Certificate (NOC)
You might need this from the builder or housing society, especially if the flat is resale. It means there are no objections or pending dues.
9. Your ID and Address Proof
You’ll need documents like Aadhaar card, PAN card, Passport, or Voter ID to prove who you are and where you live.
10. Income Proof
To get a home loan, you’ll need to show your salary slips, bank statements, or Income Tax Returns (ITR) to prove you can repay the loan.
| Document Name | New Flat (Builder) | Resale Flat (Second-hand) | Land (Jad se Makaan) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sale Deed | Builder’s Sale Deed | Seller’s Sale Deed | Seller’s Sale Deed |
| Mother Deed / Title Deed | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| RERA Registration | Mandatory | Usually not applicable | Not applicable |
| Approved Building Plan | Must have | Must have | Not applicable |
| Encumbrance Certificate | Must check | Must check | Must check |
| Property Tax Receipts | Latest Paid | Latest Paid | If applicable (for developed land) |
| Possession Certificate | Builder issues after handover | Not applicable | Not applicable |
| No Objection Certificate | From builder/society | From builder/society | Usually not applicable |
| ID & Address Proof | Buyer’s ID proof | Buyer’s ID proof | Buyer’s ID proof |
| Income Proof | Required for loan | Required for loan | Required for loan (if loan is taken) |
| Khata Certificate | Sometimes required | Required in many cities | Required |
| Mutation Document | Not usually required | Required | Required |
Why Are These Documents Important?
Banks want to see these papers before giving you a home loan. They check if the property is legal and if you can repay the loan. Without these, your loan can get rejected or you might face problems later.
Final Advice
Always verify all documents carefully. And if you’re unsure, consult a real estate expert or financial advisor before signing anything.
Buying a flat is a big step — having the right papers will make the journey smooth and safe!
People Also Ask (FAQs)
To buy a flat, you need: Sale Deed / Title Deed, RERA Registration, Approved Building Plan, Encumbrance Certificate (EC), Possession Certificate, Society/Builder NOC, Property Tax Receipts, Identity & Address Proof (Aadhaar, PAN, Passport, Voter ID), and Income Proof (salary slips, bank statements, IT returns).
The Sale Deed / Title Deed is the most important. It proves the seller legally owns the property and has the right to sell it. Without it, you may face legal issues later.
Yes! Banks calculate loan eligibility based on your monthly income (usually 40–50% of your salary can be used for EMI). Joint loans with family members can also increase eligibility.