First-Time Homebuyer Checklist for Bangalore

Buying your first home is one of the biggest decisions of your life. Use this checklist to make sure you don't miss a step.

1. Set your budget honestly

Use the 40/40/20 rule: 40% of monthly income for EMIs, 40% for living expenses, 20% for savings. Don't forget stamp duty (5–6% in Karnataka) and registration (1%).

2. Pre-approve your home loan

Approach 3 banks. Don't lock in the first offer — interest rates and processing fees vary by 0.3–0.5%.

3. Shortlist 6–8 properties, visit 3

Don't fall for the first property. Visit each shortlisted home twice — once morning, once evening — to catch traffic, water and noise issues.

4. Verify the legal documents

Title deed, encumbrance certificate, khata, RERA registration, occupancy certificate (for ready-to-move). Hire a property lawyer for ₹8,000–₹15,000.

5. Negotiate, then register

Most builders have 3–5% negotiation room. Once finalized, registration is done at the sub-registrar office — it takes one day.