I wanted to purchase a plot in 2021 in Visakhapatnam and approached a mediator. That mediator took to an another mediator who himself pretended to be an owner and I was forced to pay him Rs.1.50 L towards token amount. Since the day I paid token money, he started insisting to pay full amount towards sale consideration before the registration of land takes place. I believe he had entered into an unregistered agreement with the owner and he does not want me to introduce myself to the owner. I insisted him to introduce me to the owner, but in vain. We mutually, fixed a date for registration. I went to Vizag from Hyderabad for this purpose. Further, he was supposed to get a survey number clearance certificate from MRO which he failed to get it till last moment of registration day. I was also supposed to complete the process of registration and leave for Hyderabad that particular day. Because of his non-cooperation, dominating nature, dictating answers over phone and delaying process, I cancelled the deal and informed over phone as well as Whatapp and cam back to Hyderabad. Since then (almost 3 years), he paid only Rs.50,000/- and Rs.1.00 lakh has still to be paid by him. I have been persuading from time to time and he has been postponing the re-payment. At the time of payment made, he signed a receipt for the payment received in which he has also written all the details of property even though the property did not belong to him formally. I would now request you to please advise me what are the option I have to recover my money from him.

Ans: You booked a flat 15+ years ago in Karnataka. The project faced legal issues due to illegal construction. You haven’t been able to register the flat in your name.

Builder’s Delay
The builder registered three flats, including yours, in their name. You have a power of attorney to rent it out. The builder promised a replacement flat in a new project, but the registration is still delayed.

Key Questions
Why is the builder delaying registration?
Should you register the flat yourself?
Should you consult a lawyer?
Builder's Delay Analysis
Internal Issues
Fund Transfer: The builder needs to transfer payments from the previous project to the new one. This seems to be causing delays.

Legal Complications: The builder indicates that the ongoing court case may affect the registration process. However, you have no involvement in this case.

Project Completion
Project Delay: The new project is not yet complete. This might also contribute to the registration delay.
Recommendations
Consult a Lawyer
Legal Advice: Consult a lawyer to understand your legal standing and options.

Documentation: Ensure all your documents are in order. The lawyer can help review and prepare necessary paperwork.

Registration Process
Self-Registration: With the required documents from the builder, you might register the flat yourself. This requires legal guidance.

Follow-Up: Continue to follow up with the builder regularly. Ensure all communication is documented.

Legal Action
Notice to Builder: Your lawyer may suggest sending a legal notice to the builder for delaying registration.

Court Case: If the builder doesn’t cooperate, consider filing a case against them. This might expedite the process.

Insightful Evaluation
Assessing Risks
Builder's Reliability: Evaluate the builder’s past projects and their completion rates. This helps in assessing the likelihood of further delays.

Legal Risks: Understand the legal risks associated with the ongoing court case. Your lawyer can provide a detailed assessment.

Future Steps
Replacement Flat: If the builder provides a replacement flat, ensure all legal aspects are clear before agreeing.

Backup Plan: Have a backup plan in case the registration process faces more delays. This might include exploring other housing options.

Communication
Transparent Dialogue: Maintain open and transparent communication with the builder. Document all discussions and agreements.

Legal Assistance: Have your lawyer involved in all major communications with the builder. This ensures legal backing.

Final Insights
Proactive Steps
Consulting a lawyer is crucial. They can guide you through the legal complexities and help expedite the registration process.

Keep all your documents organized. This will be helpful during any legal procedures.

Regularly follow up with the builder. Ensure you have written records of all communications.

Evaluate the reliability of the builder and the legal implications of the ongoing court case. This helps in making informed decisions.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

Ans: I'm sorry to hear about this situation. Here’s what you can do to address it:

Send a Legal Notice: Consult a lawyer and send a formal legal notice to the broker, asking for a refund of the amount paid. Clearly state that no development has occurred and that the land wasn’t registered in your name.

File a Police Complaint: If the broker continues to be unresponsive, file a police complaint for fraud and cheating under Section 420 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC).

Consumer Court: You can approach the Consumer Court if you have evidence (receipts, agreements) showing the transaction and non-delivery of services. The Consumer Protection Act provides recourse for cases of deficiency in service.

RERA (Real Estate Regulatory Authority): If the project is registered with RERA, file a complaint with the authority for recovery of the amount along with interest for non-fulfillment of the agreement.

Civil Suit: You can file a civil suit for recovery of the amount along with compensation for mental agony and financial loss.

Best to act quickly to avoid further delays.

Hope this helps.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in