Booking a flat is easy — undoing a bad booking is not. Run through this checklist before you sign anything or pay a token amount.

1. Verify RERA registration

Confirm the project's RERA number on rera.rajasthan.gov.in and check that its status is active, not lapsed or revoked.

2. Check the title and land documents

Ask for the land title deed, conversion certificate (if agricultural land was converted for residential use), and approved building plan sanctioned by the local development authority. A property lawyer can review these for a modest fee — money well spent.

3. Research the developer's track record

How many projects has the developer completed, and were they delivered close to the promised date? RERA's project search shows a promoter's full portfolio — cross-reference it against buyer reviews on property portals.

4. Understand carpet area vs. super built-up area

The price per sq. ft. quoted is usually based on super built-up area (SBUA), which includes common areas like lobbies and stairwells. Ask specifically for the carpet area (the actual usable floor space inside your walls) so you can compare projects on a like-for-like basis.

5. Get the full cost breakup in writing

Base price, preferential location charges (PLC), clubhouse/amenity fees, car parking, GST, stamp duty and registration, and maintenance deposit should all be itemized before you pay anything — not bundled into a vague "all-inclusive" figure.

6. Read the payment plan and cancellation terms

Understand exactly when each installment is due, what happens if construction is delayed, and what refund you're entitled to if you need to cancel.

7. Visit the site in person

Check the actual construction progress against what's claimed, the surrounding neighbourhood, road access, and — if possible — talk to residents of the developer's earlier, completed projects.

8. Keep every document

Booking form, payment receipts, allotment letter, and the builder-buyer agreement should all be retained — you'll need them for your home loan and for RERA recourse if something goes wrong later.