MahaRERA Exam Notes
MahaRERA Exam Notes
1.1 Introduction
Purpose:
o To ensure agents have a comprehensive understanding of real estate
transactions to guide allottees and reduce disputes.
o Introduction of a Capacity Building and Certification Program by
MahaRERA for agents to bring consistency in practices and enhance
regulatory knowledge.
5. Professional Competency:
o Prepares agents for professional registration, ensuring adherence to legal
and ethical considerations.
6. Certification Readiness:
o Enables agents to appear for the MahaRERA online certification exam.
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Chapter 2: Introduction to RERA (Real Estate
Regulation and Development Act, 2016)
Chapter 2 of the MahaRERA Real Estate Agent Handbook provides a foundational
understanding of the Real Estate Regulation and Development Act, 2016 (RERA). This
chapter explains the purpose, scope, objectives, and key components of the Act. RERA
was introduced to address challenges in the real estate sector, such as delays, lack of
transparency, and unfair practices, and to establish accountability for all stakeholders,
including developers, agents, and buyers.
What is RERA?
RERA stands for Real Estate Regulation and Development Act, passed by the
Indian Parliament in 2016 and proposed by Dr. Girija Vyas.
It came into effect on May 1, 2017 and is applicable across India, except Jammu
and Kashmir (at the time of enactment).
The Act establishes Real Estate Regulatory Authorities (RERAs) in every state
to regulate the real estate sector and ensure consumer protection.
Purpose of RERA:
To regulate and promote transparency in the real estate sector.
To protect the rights of homebuyers.
To establish a standardized legal framework for real estate transactions.
To address grievances and ensure accountability among stakeholders.
The Act was introduced to bring discipline and professionalism into the real estate
sector. Its objectives include:
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3. Protecting Consumer Rights:
o Safeguards buyers against unfair practices, fraud, and misrepresentation.
o Ensures timely possession and a refund mechanism for buyers.
4. Standardization of Practices:
o Introduces a uniform definition of terms like carpet area, pricing, and
agreements.
o Mandates standardized agreements for sale to avoid ambiguity.
RERA applies to all stakeholders involved in the real estate sector, including:
1. Promoters/Developers:
o Must register projects with the state RERA before advertising or selling.
o Provide accurate and complete project details.
3. Homebuyers:
o Protects the rights of homebuyers and ensures that they have access to
all necessary information about the project.
4. Projects Covered:
o All projects exceeding 500 square meters and 8 units must be registered
under RERA.
o Ongoing projects without a completion certificate are also required to
register.
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2.4 Key Components of RERA
RERA is structured into 10 chapters and G2 sections that address the various aspects
of the real estate industry. Below are some key provisions of the Act:
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2.5 Grievance Redressal Under RERA
2.5.2 Adjudication
Disputes are resolved through adjudicating officers or the Appellate Tribunal.
Compensation claims are also addressed under this mechanism.
RERA enforces strict penalties for violations of its provisions to ensure compliance.
2.6.3 Imprisonment
For serious violations, the Act allows imprisonment of up to 3 years for
promoters and up to 1 years for agents, or penalties, or both.
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2.7 Benefits of RERA
For Homebuyers:
1. Assurance of project completion and delivery.
2. Protection against false advertising or misrepresentation.
3. Refunds or compensation in case of project delays.
For Promoters:
1. Boosts credibility and trust with buyers.
2. Establishes standardized processes for project approvals and sales.
For Agents:
1. Ensures transparency and ethical practices in transactions.
2. Helps build trust with clients.
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Chapter 3: Maharashtra Real Estate Regulatory
Authority (MahaRERA)
Chapter 3 of the MahaRERA Real Estate Agent Handbook provides an in-depth overview
of the Maharashtra Real Estate Regulatory Authority (MahaRERA). This chapter focuses
on its establishment, objectives, functions, and the critical role it plays in regulating the
real estate sector to promote transparency, accountability, and efficiency.
Structure of MahaRERA:
1. Chairperson:
o Heads the authority and oversees its operations.
2. Members:
o Experts in law, real estate, economics, and finance.
3. Adjudicating Officers:
o Handle disputes and decide on compensation claims.
MahaRERA is tasked with regulating real estate activities, maintaining fairness, and
ensuring compliance with RERA provisions.
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3.2.2 Ensuring Compliance
MahaRERA ensures that:
o Promoters provide accurate information about the project timeline,
carpet area, and approvals.
o Agents comply with ethical practices and avoid misrepresentation.
o Buyers fulfill their obligations as outlined in the agreement for sale.
3.3.1 Transparency
Ensures that buyers have access to all necessary project information.
Promoters must disclose:
o Carpet area, unit price, and amenities.
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o Sanctioned plans and layout approvals.
o Project timeline and expected completion date.
3.3.2 Accountability
Promoters are held accountable for project delivery as per the terms agreed with
buyers.
Agents are responsible for providing accurate and reliable information about
projects and promoters.
3.3.4 Consumer-Centricity
MahaRERA empowers buyers by ensuring they:
o Receive timely possession of their property.
o Have access to all project-related details.
o Society formation within 90 days of 51% sales.
o Convience within 90 days of OC.
o Are entitled to compensation in case of delays or misrepresentation.
3.3.5 Compliance
Promoters and agents must strictly adhere to MahaRERA guidelines and
timelines.
Non-compliance leads to penalties, revocation of registration, or other legal
actions.
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3.4.1 Filing Complaints
1. Who Can File?:
o Buyers, promoters, and agents can file complaints regarding:
Project delays.
Breach of agreement terms.
False advertising or misrepresentation.
o Complaints can be filed online through the MahaRERA portal.
2. Fee for Filing:
o A nominal fee is charged for submitting complaints.
MahaRERA ensures compliance with its regulations through strict enforcement and
penalties for violations.
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Misrepresentation: Suspension or revocation of the agent’s registration.
The MahaRERA portal is a digital platform designed to bring transparency and efficiency
to the real estate sector. It allows users to:
1. Access project and agent details.
2. File and track complaints.
3. Verify project registration and approval statuses.
4. Ensure compliance with MahaRERA rules.
Website Link: https://maharera.mahaonline.gov.in (Old)
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o Submit quarterly updates on project progress.
o Upload sanctioned plans, approvals, and project details.
3. Allottees (Homebuyers):
o Search and verify project details.
o File complaints against promoters or agents.
o Access legal orders and project statuses.
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o Provides resources for common queries about registrations, payments,
and dispute resolutions.
o Includes contact details for further assistance.
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Chapter 5: Real Estate Agent Registration and
Responsibilities
Chapter 5 of the MahaRERA Real Estate Agent Handbook focuses on the registration
process for real estate agents, the responsibilities they must adhere to, and the
consequences of non-compliance. It provides a step-by-step guide for agents to
register under MahaRERA and outlines the essential duties and ethical practices
expected from them.
A Real Estate Agent is defined under Section 2(zm) of the RERA Act as any
person who:
o Facilitates the sale or purchase of plots, apartments, or buildings in a real
estate project.
o Acts on behalf of one person in a real estate transaction.
o Earns remuneration or fees for their services, whether as a commission or
otherwise.
o Includes property dealers, brokers, and middlemen.
Key Points:
o Anyone fitting this definition is considered a real estate agent under
RERA.
o Agents must register with MahaRERA to operate legally in the real estate
market.
5.2 Registration of Real Estate Agents as per Section G of the RERA Act
Mandatory Registration:
Section G(1): No real estate agent can facilitate the sale or purchase of any
property in a registered project without registering with MahaRERA.
Application Process:
Section G(2): Agents must apply for registration in the prescribed form, pay the
required fees, and submit supporting documents.
Documents Required:
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o Identity proof (e.g., PAN, Aadhaar).
o Business registration documents (for companies or partnerships).
o Past experience details, if applicable.
o Income tax returns for the last three financial years (or a declaration if
exempted).
Approval Process:
Section G(3):
o The Authority will verify the application and grant a single registration valid
for the entire state.
o If rejected, the Authority must provide reasons in writing, and the
applicant must be given a chance to be heard.
Section G(6):
o Registration is valid for 5 years and must be renewed thereafter by
submitting an application and the required fees.
o Renewal applications must be submitted at least 60 days before expiry.
Deemed Registration:
Section G(4): If the Authority fails to respond to the application within the
prescribed time, the registration is deemed approved.
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o The organization is responsible for the actions of all employees involved
in real estate transactions.
o Registration is issued in the name of the organization.
Importance of Differentiation:
For organizations, liability extends to all employees representing the company.
Communication from the organization must include the MahaRERA registration
number.
Application Process:
Registration Fees:
₹10,000 for individuals.
₹1,00,000 for organizations (non-individuals).
Payments must be made through digital modes like NEFT or RTGS.
Renewal:
Renewal applications (Form 'J') require updated documents and the same fee as
new registrations.
Upon renewal, MahaRERA issues a new certificate (Form 'K') valid for another 5
years.
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o Apply for renewal at least 60 days before registration expires.
2. Documents for Renewal:
o Updated details and documents, including PAN, Aadhaar, and address
proof.
o Updated details of projects handled (if applicable).
3. Rejection of Renewal:
o The Authority must provide reasons in writing for rejection and give the
agent an opportunity to be heard.
4. Validity of Renewal:
o Renewal is granted for 5 years from the date of approval.
Real estate agents have specific functions and responsibilities under the RERA Act:
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3. Assist Promoters and Buyers:
o Agents should ensure that promoters and allottees fulfill their respective
obligations.
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Chapter 6: Real Estate Project Registration and
Promoter Responsibilities
Chapter 6 of the MahaRERA Real Estate Agent Handbook explains the mandatory
registration process for real estate projects under RERA, the responsibilities of
promoters, and the penalties for non-compliance. It is a critical chapter as it lays the
foundation for ensuring accountability and transparency in the real estate sector.
1. Mandatory Registration:
o All commercial and residential real estate projects must register with
MahaRERA, except:
Projects covering less than 500 sq. meters of land.
Projects with less than 8 apartments, including all phases.
Projects that have already received a completion certificate
before the commencement of RERA.
Projects undertaken for renovation, repair, or redevelopment
without marketing, advertising, or new allotments.
4. Consequences of Non-Registration:
o Failure to register may result in a penalty of up to 10% of the project’s
estimated cost.
o Continued violations can lead to imprisonment (up to 3 years) or
additional fines, or both.
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Application Process:
1. Application Submission:
o The promoter must submit an application to MahaRERA in the prescribed
format along with the necessary documents and fees.
3. Fee Structure:
o Fees are based on the size of the project and type of development (e.g.,
residential or commercial).
Approval Process:
MahaRERA reviews the application and documents.
Upon satisfaction, MahaRERA registers the project and provides a unique
registration number.
If rejected, reasons are provided in writing, and the promoter is given an
opportunity to be heard.
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The application must include justifications for the delay and supporting
documents.
Penalty for Lapse of Registration:
Promoters cannot advertise, market, or sell any units in a project if registration
lapses without renewal.
Consequences of Revocation:
1. Prohibition on Transactions:
o Promoters are barred from selling, advertising, or transferring units in the
project.
2. Completion by Authority:
o MahaRERA may take over the project and appoint a third party to
complete it.
3. Informing Stakeholders:
o All allottees and stakeholders are informed of the revocation decision.
Promoters play a crucial role in ensuring compliance with MahaRERA regulations and
protecting the interests of allottees. Below are their key responsibilities:
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2. No Misleading Advertisements:
o Promoters cannot advertise false or misleading information about the
project.
o Advertisements must include the MahaRERA registration number.
6.5.2. Financial Discipline:
1. Separate Bank Account:
o Promoters must deposit 70% of the project funds received from allottees
into a separate account.
o Funds can only be used for construction and land costs, ensuring
financial transparency.
2. Withdrawal Restrictions:
o Withdrawals from the account must be proportional to project
completion and certified by:
A chartered accountant.
An engineer.
An architect.
3. Timely Payments:
o Promoters must pay any penalties, fees, or charges as required by
MahaRERA.
1. Adherence to Timelines:
o Promoters must complete the project as per the timeline agreed in the
sale agreement.
o Any delays require compensation to the allottee.
4. Conveyance of Title:
o Promoters must transfer the title of the land and building to the
society/association within the stipulated time.
1. Delivery of Possession:
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o Promoters must deliver possession of the property to allottees on or
before the agreed date.
o In case of delay, the allottee can claim interest or a refund.
The Real Estate (Regulation and Development) Act, 2016 (RERA) protects the rights of
allottees to ensure fairness and transparency in property transactions.
1. Right to Information:
o Allottees are entitled to obtain complete and accurate information about
the project.
o Includes sanctioned plans, layout plans, government approvals, and
MahaRERA registration details.
2. Right to Possession:
o Allottees are entitled to possession of the property as per the agreed
timelines stated in the sale agreement.
o The allottee has the right to common areas and facilities once the
promoter transfers them to the society/association.
3. Right to Refund:
o In case of project delays or failure to deliver possession:
Allottees can claim a full refund of the amount paid, along with
interest.
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Alternatively, they can choose to stay in the project and claim
interest for the delayed possession.
6. Right to Compensation:
o Allottees can claim compensation for false or misleading advertisements
or for losses caused due to the promoter's actions.
While RERA ensures the rights of allottees, it also outlines their responsibilities to
promote transparency and accountability.
1. Timely Payment:
o Allottees are required to make payments for the property as per the terms
of the agreement for sale.
o Includes payment of taxes, registration charges, and maintenance fees.
2. Participation in Formation of Association/Society:
o Allottees must actively participate in the formation of a society,
association, or cooperative to manage the common areas and facilities in
the project.
3. Adherence to Terms:
o Allottees must comply with the terms mentioned in the agreement for
sale, including timelines for payment and possession.
4. Possession of the Property:
o Allottees must take possession of the property within two months of
receiving the occupancy certificate.
5. No Misuse of Property:
o Allottees must not use the property for any unauthorized purposes or in
violation of project norms.
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7.3 Dispute Resolution
7.3.1 Complaints
1. Who Can File a Complaint:
o Any allottee, promoter, or real estate agent can file a complaint with
MahaRERA regarding violations of RERA provisions.
2. Procedure to File a Complaint:
o Submit the complaint in writing to MahaRERA through the online portal or
in person.
o Include project details, registration number, and specifics of the violation.
3. Hearing and Resolution:
o MahaRERA schedules a hearing for the concerned parties.
o The authority aims to resolve complaints quickly through adjudication.
7.3.2 Adjudication
1. Role of the Adjudicating Officer:
o Handles complaints related to compensation claims under Section 71 of
RERA.
2. Compensation Award:
o Adjudication involves assessing the damages or losses incurred by the
allottee and determining the amount of compensation.
7.3.3 Conciliation
1. MahaRERA Conciliation Forum:
o Promotes amicable dispute resolution between allottees and promoters.
o Saves time and costs associated with litigation.
2. Process:
o Both parties agree to resolve the dispute through conciliation.
o A conciliator facilitates the settlement discussions.
7.3.4 Appeals
1. Appellate Tribunal:
o If a party is dissatisfied with MahaRERA’s decision, they can file an appeal
with the Appellate Tribunal within 60 days of the order.
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2. High Court Appeals:
o Further appeals can be made to the High Court within 60 days of the
Tribunal’s order, provided the party is still aggrieved.
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o Failure by an agent to comply with the orders or directives of RERA can
result in penalties of up to 5% of the unit cost.
3. Penalty for Non-Compliance with Appellate Tribunal Orders: Section 66
o Failure by a promoter to comply with the orders or directives of Appellate
Tribunal can attract up to 10% of unit cost and/or 1 years of jail.
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Chapter 8: Due Diligence Before Facilitating Property
Sales
This chapter focuses on the due diligence process that a real estate agent must follow
before facilitating the sale of a property. These steps ensure transparency, protect the
interests of both buyers and sellers, and help prevent disputes. Below is a detailed
breakdown of the key aspects covered in Chapter 8:
What to Check:
o Ensure the title deed of the property is clear and undisputed.
o Verify ownership of the land and whether it is free from encumbrances.
o Cross-check documents to confirm that the promoter has legal rights to
develop and sell the property.
Documents to Examine:
o Title deed of the property.
o Encumbrance certificate to ensure the property is free of legal liabilities
like loans or claims.
o Land use certificate to confirm compliance with local zoning regulations.
Commencement Certificate:
o This document proves that construction has begun lawfully.
o It is issued by the local authority after inspecting the compliance of the
project with approved plans and regulations.
What to Verify:
o Check for any ongoing or past legal disputes involving the property or the
promoter.
o Litigation may include issues related to land ownership, building
approvals, or delays in project completion.
Where to Check:
o MahaRERA portal’s "Complaints" section.
o Local court records or legal notices associated with the promoter or
project.
Allotment Letter:
o It specifies the buyer’s details, property details (e.g., unit number, carpet
area), payment terms, and project completion timeline.
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o Ensure the letter is signed and issued by the promoter.
Model Agreement:
o Ensure the agreement is in line with MahaRERA’s prescribed format under
Section 13(2) of RERA.
o Important Clauses to Review:
Carpet area and amenities offered.
Payment schedule and penalties for delays.
Rights and obligations of both the buyer and the promoter.
Definition:
o Carpet area is the net usable floor area of an apartment, excluding
common areas, balconies, and terrace spaces.
o It is clearly defined under RERA to bring uniformity and transparency in
real estate transactions.
Why Verify?
o To ensure that the carpet area mentioned in the agreement matches the
one registered with MahaRERA.
o Avoids discrepancies or overcharging based on inflated carpet area
measurements.
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An allotment letter is a crucial document issued by the promoter to the allottee after
the booking of a unit. It details the terms and conditions of the sale, providing an initial
agreement between both parties.
The Agreement for Sale is a legally binding document between the promoter and the
allottee. Under RERA, a standardized model agreement format is mandated to ensure
transparency and uniformity.
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o Penalties for delayed payments by the allottee and delayed possession by
the promoter.
4. Title and Encumbrance:
o The promoter must declare a clear title to the property and disclose any
encumbrances.
5. Alterations and Modifications:
o Promoters cannot make major alterations to the unit or project without
obtaining consent from two-thirds of allottees.
6. Formation of Association:
o Promoters must facilitate the formation of an association or society of
allottees after the majority of units are sold.
7. Cancellation Clauses:
o Outlines the terms under which the allottee or promoter can cancel the
agreement.
o Refund process and penalties in case of cancellation.
Importance:
Ensures clarity and accountability between the promoter and allottee.
Protects the interests of allottees by standardizing legal clauses.
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1. Brokerage Transactions:
o If brokerage payments to agents exceed ₹15,000, TDS of 5% is applicable.
(old)
o The brokerage recipient must provide their PAN to avoid higher TDS
deductions.
Importance of TDS:
Helps in tracking property transactions and prevents tax evasion.
Ensures compliance with tax laws for both buyers and promoters.
Home Loans:
1. Purpose:
o Loans provided by banks or financial institutions for purchasing
residential property.
o Generally offered for 75-90% of the property value, with the rest funded by
the buyer.
2. Key Terms:
o Loan Tenure: The repayment period, typically 10-30 years.
o Interest Rate: Can be fixed or floating.
o EMI (Equated Monthly Installment): Fixed monthly repayment amount
comprising principal and interest.
3. Eligibility:
o Determined based on the borrower’s income, age, credit score, and
financial liabilities.
4. Documents Required:
o Identity and address proof.
o Income proof (salary slips, ITR, etc.).
o Property documents, including the agreement for sale.
Mortgage Loans:
1. Definition:
o A type of secured loan where the borrower pledges their property as
collateral.
o Typically used for large financial requirements or refinancing existing
loans.
2. Key Features:
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o The property remains mortgaged with the lender until the loan is repaid.
o In case of default, the lender has the right to auction the property to
recover the dues.
3. Difference Between Home and Mortgage Loans:
o Home Loan: Specifically for property purchase; lower interest rates.
o Mortgage Loan: A general-purpose loan secured by property; higher
interest rates.
Real estate transactions involve multiple taxes, government charges, and levies that
buyers and promoters need to be aware of. Below are the key components:
1. Applicability:
o GST is applicable on the sale of under-construction properties.
o It is not applicable to fully constructed and completed properties with an
occupancy/completion certificate.
2. GST Rates: (Till March 2019)
o Residential properties: 8% for affordable housing and 12% for non-
affordable housing (with Input Tax Credit).
o Commercial properties: 12% (with Input Tax Credit).
3. GST Rates: (From April 2019)
o Residential properties: 1% for affordable housing and 5% for non-
affordable housing (without Input Tax Credit).
o Commercial properties: 12% (without Input Tax Credit).
4. Affordable Housing Definition:
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o Properties priced up to ₹45 lakhs and having a carpet area of:
Up to 60 sq. meters in metropolitan cities.
Up to G0 sq. meters in non-metropolitan cities.
5. Impact on Real Estate:
o GST simplifies tax compliance by subsuming various indirect taxes.
o Promoters must ensure proper invoicing and tax filing to avoid penalties.
1. Definition:
o A fee payable to the state government for registering property ownership
in the buyer’s name.
o Acts as legal proof of property ownership.
2. Calculation:
o Registration charges vary by state.
o Typically, it is 1% of the property's value or as per the state's guidelines.
(Maximum Rs. 30,000 for Maharashtra)
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o A tax levied by the state government on property transactions.
o It serves as evidence of the transaction and ensures its legality.
2. Rates:
oStamp duty rates differ by state and the type of property (e.g., residential
or commercial).
o Additional rebates may apply for women buyers in certain states.
3. Penalty for Non-Payment:
o If not paid, stamp duty may attract heavy fines, penalties, or disputes
regarding ownership.
A cost sheet is a detailed breakdown of the total cost of a property. It provides clarity to
buyers regarding various components of the price they are paying.
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Important Dates
1. 14h August 2014
o RERA Act was proposed by Dr. Girija Vyas.
Key Notifications
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o Maharashtra Real Estate Regulatory Authority (Annual Statement of
Accounts and Reports) Rules, 2017.
5. MahaRERA Regulations
o General Regulations (2017).
o Recruitment and Service Conditions of Employees (2017).
o Real Estate Appellate Tribunal Regulations (2019).
6. Important Forms
o Form G: Application for registration by real estate agents.
o Form H: Registration certificate for real estate agents.
o Form I: Intimation for rejection of application.
o Form J: Application for renewal of registration.
o Form K: Intimation for renewal approval.
Sections of RERA
Chapter I: Preliminary
Chapter II: Registration of Real Estate Projects and Real Estate Agents
10. Section 10: Duties and responsibilities of registered real estate agents.
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11. Section 11: Obligations of the promoter regarding disclosures and updates.
14. Section 14: Adherence to approved plans and consent for modifications.
18. Section 18: Promoter’s responsibility for compensation for delays or defects.
19. Section 1G: Rights and duties of allottees in real estate transactions.
20. Section 20: Establishment of the Real Estate Regulatory Authority (RERA).
22. Section 22: Term of office and conditions for RERA members.
24. Section 24: Salary, allowances, and service conditions for RERA members.
29. Section 2G: Functions of RERA in regulating the real estate sector.
33. Section 33: Powers of RERA to call for information or investigate complaints.
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34. Section 34: Responsibilities of RERA in ensuring compliance.
40. Section 40: Constitution and role of the Central Advisory Council.
43. Section 43: Establishment of the Real Estate Appellate Tribunal (REAT).
47. Section 47: Term of office and conditions for Tribunal members.
48. Section 48: Salary, allowances, and service conditions for Tribunal members.
51. Section 51: Administrative and financial provisions for the Tribunal.
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58. Section 58: Penalties for failing to comply with Tribunal orders.
66. Section 66: Penalty for failure to maintain records or provide information.
Chapter X: Miscellaneous
77. Section 77: Bar on jurisdiction of civil courts for matters under RERA.
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80. Section 80: Rules for implementation of RERA.
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