The Maharashtra Real Estate Regulatory Authority (MahaRERA) now requires developers to obtain quality assurance certificates for their projects, aiming to improve construction standards and protect homebuyers. This initiative addresses issues like subpar construction and delays, fostering a more reliable market. Domnic Romell of CREDAI-MCHI supports the move, emphasising the industry's commitment to quality and trust. Regular audits and inspections will ensure compliance, creating a more resilient and transparent real estate sector in Maharashtra, benefiting over 10 million homebuyers statewide.Read more

The DTCP has issued a 15-day compliance notice to the Residents' Welfare Association (RWA) of Ireo Victory Valley in Sector 67 after EWS flat owners reported being denied access to their homes and common amenities. This issue, highlighted in a grievance hearing led by Deputy Commissioner Nishant Yadav, raises concerns about discrimination against EWS residents. The RWA faces legal consequences if it fails to restore access and services. However, RWA members claim layout issues complicate access. The case underscores ongoing challenges in ensuring equitable treatment for EWS residents in Gurugram and similar communities across India.Read more

The Punjab and Haryana High Court is pushing for the adoption of software to track land ownership and prevent fraudulent property transactions. This follows a case where a man, Prem Kumar, illegally sold 18 marlas of land he no longer owned. The court has directed the Punjab and Haryana governments to explore technological tools that can help sub-registrars verify property ownership more effectively. The next court hearing is set for September 2, where the revenue departments must report on their progress. This initiative aims to reduce legal disputes and improve transparency in real estate dealings.Read more

The Municipal Corporation of Gurugram (MCG) has taken control of 291 out of 327 acres in Mayfield Gardens, following Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini's directive to address maintenance issues. This action comes after developers failed to pay development charges, leaving residents with inadequate infrastructure. MCG Commissioner Narhari Singh Banger announced that the corporation would prioritise sanitation and maintenance. Despite the takeover, 36 acres remain under the developer's control, with unresolved issues like sewage and electricity still troubling residents. The transition marks a crucial step in improving living conditions for Mayfield Gardens' residents.Read more

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) is set to return 78 flats valued over INR 20 crore to victims of fraud by the SRS Group in Gurugram. This decision follows an Appellate Tribunal order and involves properties from projects like SRS Pearl and SRS City. Previously, the ED had attached assets worth INR 2,215 crore from SRS Group in a money laundering probe. After extensive legal and verification processes, including directives from the Punjab and Haryana High Court and the Supreme Court, legitimate homebuyers will now receive their due properties. This action underscores ongoing challenges in real estate and regulatory efforts to address them.Read more

Maharashtra Housing and Area Development Authority (MHADA) hosted its fifth Lokshahi Day, led by Vice President and CEO Sanjeev Jaiswal, to address public housing concerns. During the event, nine citizen applications were reviewed, primarily involving issues in Mumbai and Pune. Notable cases included Surekha Kale's appeal for a waiver of a INR 7.5 lakh late fee and Hiren Mehta's concerns about maintenance fees. Jaiswal emphasised the need for faster resolutions and better transparency, requesting a report on actions within 15 days. Lokshahi Day aims to improve public engagement and housing policy responsiveness.Read more

Puducherry Chief Minister N. Rangasamy announced enhanced financial support for housing and journalists. The Kamaraj Housing Scheme's subsidy has been raised to INR 5 lakh, matched by a central government contribution, totaling INR 10 lakh per household. This initiative aims to replace temporary shelters with permanent homes. Additionally, monthly assistance for retired journalists will rise from INR 10,000 to INR 15,000, and free laptops will be provided to active reporters. Plans to distribute house sites to journalists and process new pension applications reflect the government's commitment to improving welfare and living conditions in the region.Read more

Punjab's cabinet has approved significant reforms to simplify property registration by removing the no-objection certificate (NOC) requirement under specific conditions, addressing delays and fraudulent practices. The new regulations allow land deals verified through bank transactions before July 31 to bypass the NOC process. Additionally, the Punjab Fire Safety and Emergency Services Bill, 2024 updates fire safety regulations, requiring certificates every three years and introducing fire insurance. The cabinet also reduced motor vehicle taxes for tourist vehicles and imposed additional road tax on luxury cars, aiming to boost tourism and address pollution. A new tree preservation policy aims to increase the state's tree cover to 7.5% by 2030, supported by a INR 792.88 crore agroforestry project. These measures reflect Punjab's commitment to improving property transactions, safety, and environmental sustainability.Read more

The Maharashtra State Board of Wakf is investigating whether a plot in Bhendi Bazaar, Mumbai, sold to the Saifee Burhani Upliftment Trust (SBUT) is legally Wakf property. This follows a Supreme Court order from May 17, requiring the Board to determine the plot's status within 12 weeks. The property, over 150 years old and originally owned by the Haji Ismail Haji Habib Musafirkhana Trust, was sold to SBUT in 2016 for redevelopment. While SBUT argues the plot is not Wakf land, tenants and interveners claim it is, citing a functioning mosque on-site. The Supreme Court's directive to maintain "status quo" has halted redevelopment work. The investigation, ongoing since July 24, 2024, aims to resolve this dispute and determine the plot's future amid SBUT's broader redevelopment efforts in Bhendi Bazaar.Read more

The Indian government has updated the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY) to support urban families with incomes up to INR 9 lakh, offering interest subsidies on home loans for properties up to 120 square meters. The previous income threshold was INR 18 lakh, and the cap on loan amounts was higher. The new interest subsidy limit is INR 1.8 lakh. Additionally, affordable rental housing provisions are introduced, offering up to INR 1.5 lakh for constructing small rental units. New web-based platforms and transparent rental regulations aim to enhance accessibility and affordability for urban dwellers.Read more