Buying a plot: documents you should always check

Ask for the title deed and trace the ownership history. An encumbrance certificate shows whether the land has any recorded loan or dispute against it.

Confirm the land use. Agricultural land usually needs conversion before you can build a home, and the layout should be approved by the local development authority.

Visit the site, match its boundaries with the survey map, and check road access, water and electricity.

Have a property lawyer review the papers before you pay a token amount. Registration charges and stamp duty vary by state, so use the stamp duty tool to plan for them.