The way we buy homes has changed drastically over the past few decades. While purchasing a property was once largely an offline activity, today much of the research and shortlisting process happens online. That said, a smart homebuyer knows that the ideal approach combines both online and offline methods. Here’s a guide on how to make the most of both.
Offline Research
1. Family and Friends
Even as nuclear families become more common, family advice remains invaluable when buying a home. Those who have previously invested in real estate can offer insights on neighborhood choices, builder reliability, and long-term prospects. Listening to experienced family members can help you avoid potential pitfalls.
2. Word of Mouth
Speaking with current residents and investors in the area you’re considering can reveal crucial information. Their firsthand experiences about a builder, the locality, and ongoing maintenance issues provide a practical perspective that online listings may not cover.
3. Print Media
Newspapers, magazines, and brochures continue to be relevant sources of property information. Developers use print advertising to showcase new projects, payment plans, amenities, and launch offers, which can complement online research.
Online Research
1. Real Estate Portals
The internet has transformed property hunting. Real estate portals allow buyers to filter listings by budget, location, and property type. Features like 3D walkthroughs, virtual tours, and map-based searches make it easier to evaluate properties before visiting them physically. Some portals even arrange site visits and transportation for interested buyers.
2. RERA Portal
Since May 1, 2016, all developers and projects must register under the Real Estate Regulatory Authority (RERA) of their respective state or UT. Before finalizing a project, verify its RERA registration. Projects registered under RERA come with a unique registration number and certificate, ensuring legal protection in case of delays or defaults.
3. Developer Websites
Corporate websites of developers are rich sources of information. You can explore their ongoing and completed projects, company history, and details about the team behind the development. This helps assess a builder’s credibility and track record.
4. Blogs and Forums
Real estate blogs and online forums are excellent tools for research. They provide reviews, market insights, trends, and discussions about new and upcoming projects. Engaging with these communities helps buyers gather information from multiple perspectives and make informed decisions.
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