Gurugram: In a significant move aimed at protecting homebuyers from fraudulent real estate transactions, the Haryana Real Estate Regulatory Authority (HARERA), Gurugram has issued a public advisory cautioning citizens against investing in or purchasing units in unregistered real estate projects.
The Authority has urged prospective buyers to exercise extreme caution and conduct thorough due diligence before booking plots, flats, villas, apartments, or any other real estate unit. Homebuyers have been advised to verify key project details such as the RERA Registration Certificate, Registration Number, project website, approved site address, and other relevant information available on the Authority’s official portal.
According to HARERA, the sale, marketing, booking, or purchase of units in an unregistered project is a direct violation of the provisions of the Real Estate (Regulation and Development) Act, 2016. The Authority emphasized that investing only in RERA-registered projects ensures legal protection and safeguards the interests of buyers.
The regulator has also taken serious note of misleading advertisements and promotional campaigns being carried out by developers for projects that have not yet received mandatory approvals or registration from the Authority. HARERA has directed promoters to refrain from pre-launch advertisements, marketing campaigns, and promotional offers for such projects.
In another important warning, the Authority highlighted that under Section 9 of the RERA Act, every real estate agent facilitating the sale or purchase of units in a registered project must obtain registration with HARERA. Any agent operating without registration may face legal action.
Further, HARERA reminded stakeholders that under Section 59(2) of the Act, advertising, marketing, booking, selling, or offering for sale any unregistered real estate project constitutes a punishable offence. The Authority stated that strict legal and regulatory action may be initiated against promoters, agents, or any other individuals found violating the provisions of the Act.
The advisory serves as a strong reminder for homebuyers to verify project credentials before investing and avoid falling prey to unauthorized real estate schemes.