Chapter 2: Ownership and Legal Status

KERALA LAND BUYER'S COMPANION HANDBOOK

Architect Shahdad Karim

PART I: Getting to Know the Property 

Chapter 2: Ownership and Legal Status

Check the ownership and legal status of the land.

Congratulations on taking the exciting step towards buying a piece of land in Kerala! Before you start daydreaming about building your dream home or a vacation villa, there are several important steps you should take to ensure that you are making a sound investment. One of the most critical of these steps is to check the ownership and legal status of the land you are considering purchasing. In this chapter, we will discuss why this step is important and how you can go about it in a friendly and informative manner.

 

First things first, what does it mean to check the ownership and legal status of a property? This step involves verifying that the person or entity selling the property is the rightful owner and that there are no legal issues or disputes related to the land. This verification is important for several reasons. Firstly, it ensures that you are not buying a property that is already owned by someone else that you are unaware of. Secondly, it can help you avoid any legal issues that may arise after the purchase, such as boundary disputes or title claims. Finally, it provides you with a clear understanding of any existing legal obligations or restrictions associated with the property.

 

So, how can you go about checking the ownership and legal status of a property in Kerala? Here are some steps to follow:

1. Ask for documentation

The first step in checking the ownership and legal status of a property is to ask the seller for all relevant documentation. This documentation may include the property title deed, survey plans, and any other documents related to the ownership or history of the property. Make sure that you carefully review these documents and seek professional help if necessary.

 

2. Verify the authenticity of documents

Once you have received the documentation, it is important to verify the authenticity of the documents. You can do this by checking the registration numbers and dates on the documents with the land registry office. This step can help you ensure that the documents are genuine and not fraudulent.

 

3. Check the property title

The property title is one of the most critical documents you should review when checking the ownership and legal status of a property. The property title provides information about the owner of the property, the property boundaries, and any encumbrances or restrictions on the property. You should ensure that the property title is in the name of the seller and that there are no liens or mortgages on the property.
 

4. Verify the seller's identity

Verifying the identity of the seller is another essential step when checking the ownership and legal status of a property. You should ensure that the seller is the person or entity listed on the property title and that they have the legal authority to sell the property.

 

5. Check for any legal issues

Finally, you should check for any legal issues related to the property. This can include verifying that all taxes related to the property have been paid, ensuring that there are no pending lawsuits related to the property, and checking for any zoning or land use restrictions that may affect your intended use of the property.

 

Conclusion

In conclusion, checking the ownership and legal status of a property is a crucial step in the home buying process. It can help you avoid any legal issues or disputes that may arise after the purchase and provide you with a clear understanding of any existing obligations or restrictions associated with the property. By following the steps outlined above, you can ensure that you are making a sound investment in your dream home or vacation villa.