Pakistan’s real estate market is a thriving industry, offering abundant investment and business prospects annually to millions. Over the last ten years, the market has experienced substantial growth in terms of investment interest and popularity. Unfortunately, this growth has also led to an increase in fraudulent schemes and unethical practices, making it imperative to verify real estate properties.
In Pakistan, verifying real estate papers is a straightforward process that involves obtaining a copy of the title deed or property registration certificate and obtaining verification from the local Patwari (Land Records Officer). The first step is to obtain a copy of the title deed from the seller.
The buyer can then contact the local Patwari to confirm the authenticity of the deed and receive a verification report. In addition, the buyer should also obtain a no-dues certificate from the local jurisdiction to make sure that all taxes and fees have been settled, thereby ensuring the legality and validity of the transaction.
Here is a detailed guide on how to verify real estate papers in Pakistan:
Obtain a Copy of the Title Deed
The title deed, also known as the “Jamabandi,” is the most important document in the verification process. It includes information such as the owner’s name, the property’s description, and the nature of the property (residential, commercial, or agricultural).
Mother Deed
A “Mother Deed” is a legally binding document that contains the whole history of a property, including past transactions, owners, and changes in ownership. A mother deed is a sure technique of identifying the true owner of the property, assuring the legitimacy of the real estate paperwork.
Sale Deed
A sale deed is an agreement that closes the transfer of real estate property between the seller and the buyer of the property. A sales agreement and a sales deed are frequently misunderstood. But these two texts are very different from one another.
A sale deed is a formal document that describes how an immovable property will be transferred from a seller to a buyer. A selling agreement, on the other hand, outlines the terms and circumstances of a real estate transaction. The terms that both parties have agreed upon govern the whole transaction procedure.
Verify the ownership of the property
The title deed should have the name of the current owner and the date of transfer. You can verify the ownership by contacting the relevant revenue department and asking for a copy of the property’s transfer record.
Check for any encumbrances
Encumbrances refer to any outstanding debts, mortgages, or liens on the property. These can be checked by visiting the relevant revenue department or the local sub-registrar’s office.
Verify the property’s dimensions
The title deed should include the property’s dimensions, including its length, width, and area. You can verify these details by visiting the property and taking measurements or by obtaining a copy of the revenue department’s maps.
Check for any disputes or litigations
You can check for any disputes or litigations related to the property by visiting the local sub-registrar’s office and asking for a copy of the property’s dispute record.
Get a copy of the NOC
NOC (No Objection Certificate) is a document issued by the relevant revenue department that verifies that the property is clear of any encumbrances and that there are no outstanding debts or mortgages.
Consult a real estate lawyer
It is always a good idea to consult a real estate lawyer when verifying real estate papers in Pakistan. A lawyer can assist you in understanding the legal language and ensure that the verification process is completed accurately.
Conclusion
Verifying real estate papers in Pakistan is an important step in the process of buying or selling a property. By following these steps, you can ensure that you are making a secure investment and avoid any potential legal issues in the future. With the real estate industry entering the digital age, various options for property verification online are now accessible.
The provincial governments of Punjab and Sindh have implemented online property verification systems, which have streamlined the process of certifying real estate documents. A few private firms also provide property verification services, which can be valuable for evaluating newer housing societies and homes. For more information visit our blog “How to Check Property Ownership in Pakistan Online”.
