The Real Estate (Regulation and Development) Act, commonly known as RERA, was introduced to bring transparency, accountability, and efficiency to India’s real estate sector. One of its key requirements is RERA project registration, which ensures that real estate projects are legally compliant before they are marketed or sold. What is RERA Project Registration? RERA project registration is a mandatory process where builders and developers must register their residential or commercial projects with the respective state’s RERA authority before advertising, selling, or booking units. This applies to all projects above a certain size or with specific development parameters, as defined under the Act. Objectives of RERA Project Registration Transparency – Buyers get access to verified project details. Accountability – Developers are legally bound to deliver projects on time. Protection for Buyers – Reduces risks of fraud or delays. Standardization – Ensures uniform rules across states. Who Needs to Register Under RERA? All new residential and commercial projects exceeding 500 sq. meters or having more than 8 units. Ongoing projects without completion certificates. Real estate agents facilitating the sale of such projects. Steps for RERA Project Registration Prepare Documentation – Title deed, approved plans, project layout, developer details, and financial statements. Apply Online – Visit the respective state’s RERA portal and fill out the application. Pay Fees – Registration fees vary based on state rules and project size. Verification – The RERA authority reviews the application and documents. Approval & Registration Number – Once approved, the project gets a unique RERA registration number, which must be displayed in all promotions. Benefits of RERA Project Registration Credibility for Developers – Builds trust among buyers. Legal Compliance – Avoids penalties and project delays. Access to Funding – Financial institutions prefer financing registered projects. Buyer Confidence – Buyers are assured of lawful dealings. Penalties for Non-Compliance Failure to register a project under RERA can result in heavy fines, up to 10% of the estimated project cost, and even imprisonment for repeated violations. Conclusion RERA project registration is a vital step towards creating a fair, transparent, and reliable real estate market in India. For developers, it’s not just about legal compliance but also about earning buyer trust, while for homebuyers, it’s a safeguard against fraud and delays.