If land comes up for sale, it is crucial to follow these steps immediately:
1. Verify the Encumbrance Certificate (EC) from 1975 onwards, and for years prior to that, check the manual EC records (1908 or 1858).
2. Avoid buying zero-value land, which is considered earthy land, outlying, or wild land.
3. Be cautious of double document land related to Power of Attorney (POA). Ensure that the person granting the power is alive and conscious, and verify if the POA has been cancelled.
4. Check for land sold through a will and ensure it is not an unregistered will, as it may lead to double documentation.
5. Be cautious of land sold through settlement deeds, especially those that can be cancelled by a civil court.
6. Verify the land’s classification, ensuring it aligns with approved layouts and is free from any issues like illegal encroachments.
7. Verify land ownership and ensure the property tax is in the seller’s name before making any purchase.
8. Inquire about joint lease land to avoid potential disputes and complexities in the future.
9. Check the land’s classification, including its history as zamin land, inam land, or ryotwari land.
10. Be aware of land donated or assigned by the government and verify the conditions associated with it.
11. Confirm if the land falls under the land ceiling limits and whether it is covered under the Urban Land Ceiling Act.
12. Avoid buying court-attached properties or land from individuals involved in divorce cases.
13. Obtain relevant documents such as FMB, Patta, Chitta, A-Record, and others from the village VAO where the land is located.
14. Ensure there are no restraining orders against the land in the register office.
15. Verify the completeness of the deed, including the payment of stamp duty.
16. Visit the location multiple times, and inquire with neighbours about any potential issues or disputes related to the land.
17. Gather information about the seller’s family and their shares in the property.
18. Consult with a reputable civil lawyer in the land register office area to review all the documents and provide legal advice.
In conclusion, it is essential to be thorough and diligent in examining the legal aspects and background of the land before making any purchase.
