Dhanteras and Diwali are among the most popular times in India to book a new home. Many builders launch festive offers, banks run home loan campaigns, and families like to start something new on an auspicious day.
The festive rush can also push buyers into quick decisions. A few simple checks before you pay the token amount will protect your money and your peace of mind.
1. Check the project on the RERA portal
Every registered project has a RERA number. In Gujarat, you can look it up on the GujRERA portal (gujrera.gujarat.gov.in). Check:
- the registered promoter's name
- the approved plan
- the promised completion date
- the quarterly progress updates
If the builder cannot share a RERA number for an under-construction project, treat that as a red flag.
2. Read the festive offer in writing
Offers such as "free modular kitchen", "no floor rise", "pay 10% now" or "gold coin on booking" sound attractive. Ask for the offer on the booking form or in an offer letter, with the exact terms. A verbal promise at the site office is hard to claim later.
3. Compare the total cost, not the base price
The base price is only one part of what you pay. Ask for a written cost sheet that includes:
- basic sale price
- floor rise and preferred location charges (PLC)
- parking charges
- maintenance deposit and advance maintenance
- club or development charges
- GST (for under-construction homes)
- stamp duty and registration
A "discount" on the base price can be cancelled out by higher extra charges.
4. Get your home loan pre-approved
A pre-approved loan tells you exactly how much you can borrow. It also makes the bank's processing faster after booking.
Festive offers on processing fees are common, but compare the interest rate and the loan terms too, not just the fee waiver.
5. Check the carpet area
RERA requires builders to sell on carpet area, which is the usable floor area inside the walls. Compare flats on carpet area, not on "super built-up" area, which can include common spaces.
6. Visit the site, not just the sample flat
A sample flat is designed to look its best. Visit the actual tower and floor if you can, at different times of day. Check:
- the approach road
- water supply
- distance to schools, hospitals and your workplace
7. Understand the payment plan
Under-construction projects usually follow a construction-linked payment plan. Make sure each payment is tied to a real construction stage, such as the slab of a given floor, and not only to dates.
8. Read the cancellation terms
Before you pay a token or booking amount, ask what happens if your loan is rejected or you change your mind. Know how much is refundable and in how many days.
9. Check the possession date and penalty clause
The agreement should show the possession date and what the builder pays if possession is delayed. Match this date with the date on RERA.
Start your search
Browse current listings in your city on TerraNexxus. You can filter by new projects, ready-to-move flats and budget, and compare asking prices on the city's price trends page before you visit a site.
- New projects: /ahmedabad/new-projects
- Ready-to-move flats: /ahmedabad/ready-to-move-flats
- Price trends: /ahmedabad/price-trends
FAQs
Is it really cheaper to buy a home during Diwali?
Sometimes. Builders often add festive offers or flexible payment plans, but the final deal depends on the project. Always compare the full cost sheet with a non-festive quote.
How much token amount should I pay?
There is no fixed rule. Pay only after you have checked RERA and the cost sheet, and get a receipt that states whether the amount is refundable.
Can I book on Dhanteras and complete the paperwork later?
Yes. Many buyers pay a token on an auspicious day and sign the agreement later. Make sure the booking form clearly states the price and the offer terms.
