What Is The RERA Act?
The Real Estate Regulatory Authority, or RERA, was established by the Real Estate (Regulation and Development) Act of 2016 with the dual goals of safeguarding homebuyers and encouraging real estate investment. On March 10, 2016, the Upper House (Rajya Sabha) enacted the Parliament of India Act bill. The RERA Act went into force on May 1, 2016. Only 52 of the 92 sections were notified at the time. The remaining clauses went into effect on May 1, 2017.
Benefits Of RERA
Benefits of RERA for homebuyers:
- Transparency in Projects: The RERA provides all the information about the project, including layouts, timelines, approval, etc. So all the builders are required to register the property with RERA before selling it.
- Timely Possession: With RERA registration, all the builders are bound to complete the projects on the time mentioned in the RERA registration. And if there’s a delay, buyers are entitled to a repayment or refund.
- Financial Stability: RERA allows buyers to keep at least 70% of their payment into a separate escrow account in order to avoid money diversion.
- Correct Information: RERA provides accurate information to the buyers that they should buy the property according to the carpet area which means the actual usable area in a house. This helps in ceasing deceptive advertisements.
Benefits of RERA for Developers/Builders:
- Enhanced Trustworthiness: Registered projects are more likely to attract buyers’ trust, and this also increases sales. Brand reputation is enhanced by following trust and rules.
- Attracts More Buyers and Investment: Registered projects attract more buyers and customers. Also it helps in obtaining more funds and investment.
- Faster Dispute Resolution: Time is saved and lawsuit risks are decreased with quicker complaint handling.
- Uniform Procedures: Nationwide uniform standards promote professionalism in the real estate market.
Benefits Of RERA for The Real Estate Sector:
- Increase Buyers’ Confidence: Increased buyers’ confidence results in more investment in real estate. Prior to RERA, many buyers were concerned because of fraud, delays, and unclear fees. And now buyers feel more secure because registration is required and disclosure rules are stricter. Increased consumer trust builds more sales and long term sectoral growth.
- Minimizing False Advertisements and Scams: Prior to RERA, developers used to attract customers by showing them lavish amenities and high-density areas. But after the introduction of RERA, developers can only sell the property showing carpet area (actual usable floor space). This helps in reducing illicit trading, dishonest marketing, and unfulfilled commitments.
- Structured and Controlled Market: Historically, the real estate industry was less regulated and more unstructured. At the same time, RERA requires financial restraints, transparency, and legal adherence. Developers are required to hold 70% of the amount in an escrow fund to avoid misconduct.