The Real Estate (Regulation and Development) Act, 2016 (RERA) is a policy aimed at introducing transparency, accountability, and discipline in the Indian real estate industry. Among the most critical conditions within the framework of this law is the fact that all real estate agents are obligated to enrol themselves with the RERA authority of the corresponding state prior to participating in the buying and selling of properties. An agent cannot legally advertise, sell or make deals on property without this registration.
This blog outlines the process of registering an agent online through RERA, including the eligibility requirements, necessary documents, fees, and the advantages of registering as an agent.
What is the Need for RERA Agent Registration?
According to Section 9 of the RERA Act, all real estate agents, including individuals and companies, are required to register where they are engaged in:
- The sale or purchase of plots, apartments or buildings.
- Helping to sell or buy real estate projects.
- Working as a real estate advisor, real estate broker or intermediary.
Non-registration can be subject to punishment, including a substantial fine and even imprisonment in the case of a second offence.
Advantages of RERA Agent registration
The advantage of becoming a registered RERA agent, apart from ensuring compliance, is also the addition of credibility to the market. The biggest advantages are:
- Licensure as an agent of real estate.
- Greater trust on both the provider and buyer sides.
- RERA-registered projects.
- Clear property transactions in the interests of the buyer.
- Credibility to have increased business opportunities.
Eligibility to be an RERA Agent
Eligibility requirements are a little different in each state, but the overall requirements are:
- This needs to be an Indian citizen (in the case of individuals).
- The applicant should not have been found guilty of any fraud or dishonesty-related offence.
- Applications can also be made by companies, partnership firms, LLPs or societies that are involved in real estate activities.
Documents Needed to Apply for a RERA Agent
Individuals and business entities have a different list of documents. Below is a general checklist:
For Individual Agents
- The passport-size photo.
- Duplicate of Aadhaar card or voter ID.
- PAN card copy.
- Show evidence (electricity bill, passport or driving license).
- Evidence of business location (rent contract or real estate ownership documents).
- Income tax return (where necessary).
For Companies, Firms, or LLPs
- A passport-size photo of the directors/partners.
- Registration certificate or deed of partnership of the company.
- PAN card of the company/firm.
- Discuss the display of evidence in the office premises.
- Name of partners/ directors and contacts.
- Companies Memorandum of Association (MOA) and Articles of Association (AOA).
- Financial statements (where necessary) that are audited.
Online Process for Registration of RERA Agents
The registration of agents of RERA is fully online on the state RERA website. The specific process might vary somewhat depending on the state, but the general process has not changed.
Step 1: Go to the State RERA Website.
Each state possesses a portal of RERA. An example is Maharashtra, MazhaRERA, Uttar Pradesh, UP-RERA and Delhi, Delhi RERA. Go to the state RERA official website.
Step 2: Create an Account
The applicant should open an account at the portal by inputting simple information like his/her name, mobile number, email ID, and address. Credential information is then created.
Step 3: Choose “Agent Registration”
After signing in, select the option for Real Estate Agent Registration. Choose whether you are applying as a person or a firm/company.
Step 4: Complete Application Form
The web-based application form will need the following information:
- Name and nature of applicant (person or organization).
- Business and permanent address.
- The contact details, such as email and telephone.
- PAN and Aadhaar details.
- Partners/ directors (where applicable).
Previous experience in the real estate business.
Step 5: Upload Documents
Upload the mandatory documents in either PDF/JPEG as per the specifications of the portal. Make sure that the scanned copies are self-attested and clear where necessary.
Step 6: Pay Registration Fees
Every state RERA organisation levies registration fees. The typical fee is:
- 10,000 for individuals.
- 50,000 on behalf of firms, companies or societies.
It can be paid online using a debit card, a credit card, net banking or UPI.
Step 7: RERA Authority Check
Once this is submitted, the RERA authority verifies the application and the documents. They can ask questions or demand further explanation or documents as necessary.
Step 8: The Registration Certificate is Issued
In case the application is satisfactory, the RERA authority grants a RERA Agent Registration Certificate. A special registration number is included in this certificate and should be quoted in any advertisement and transactions of property.
Renewal and Validity of RERA Agent Registration
The agent registration by the RERA lasts 5 years after the issuance date. The agents are required to seek renewal prior to the date of expiry in order to practice. In renewal, revised documents would also have to be submitted and fees should be paid.
Common Grounds Unsatisfying Registration
They are to be accurate and complete so that the applicant is not rejected. Common mistakes include:
- Turning in unfinished or wrong documents.
- Giving false information or misleading information.
- Failure to pay prescribed prices.
- Historical criminal convictions of fraud.
Penalty for Non-Compliance
In case an agent is operating without registration, RERA punishes him with utmost severity:
- Default period Fine of Rs. 10,000 per day.
- Fine up to 5 percent of cost of property.
- In extreme situations, jail for up to 1 year.
Significance of RERA Registration on the Agents
Being a RERA agent is not just a mere legal formality. It establishes a considerable base of trust in the real estate business. Registered agents are better than buying from other agents because they guarantee compliance with the law and accountability. To agents, it will increase reputation and attract more clients, and participate in larger projects that are approved by RERA.
Conclusion
The registration procedure of RERA agents is not complicated and is obligatory for any individual within the real estate industry. Agents are able to gain legal recognition in a few steps with clear eligibility requirements, specific document requirements, and a simple online application system. Registration is also a way of maintaining a level of credibility in the competitive property market, besides ensuring that the law is adhered to.
Real estate agents can become reputable professionals in the industry by preparing documents, using the right online procedure, and renewing registration as required.