Commercial real estate is among the fastest-growing markets in India. Offices, retail stores, institutions, and industrial developments primarily fall under this umbrella. Commercial property is a property owned to generate income through business activities. 

While many prefer developed structures, commercial plots have also been at the center stage due to higher appreciation and relatively lower investment costs than other asset types in commercial real estate.

However, being abreast of the nuances of buying commercial land is crucial to avoid administrative and legal hassles. From paperwork to zoning laws, there are various factors to look into. Let’s look at essential tips for buying commercial land in India.

Types of commercial property 

Retail - Retail Shops, Stores, Malls

Industrial- Warehouse, Manufacturing Plants , Factories

Hospitality-Tourism Agencies, Motels, Hotels

Institutional- Schools  and Colleges 

Office Spaces- Corporate Offices 

What’s to check before buying a commercial plot in India? 

Review the Location 

1. Location Matters: The most critical factor in buying commercial land is its location. It should be easily accessible with good infrastructure. A prime location ensures higher demand and, in turn, leads to higher profits. 
2. Zoning System: Indian civic authorities use a zoning system based on Euclidean geometry to classify land for commercial purposes. They divide towns into districts with specific zones for different land uses, either permitted or prohibited. 
3. Integrated Zoning: As available land decreases, zoning becomes more integrated. This means that the planning of various zones becomes more coordinated to optimize land usage efficiently. 
4. Clearly Demarcated Commercial Zone: When buying commercial land, ensure it falls within a clearly marked commercial zone. This guarantees that the area is suitable for commercial activities and compliant with local regulations. 
5. Avoid Uncontrolled Development: Avoid land with uncontrolled development like unauthorized boundaries, fences, or incompatible structures within the permitted area. These issues may lead to legal and operational challenges later on. 
6. Types of Commercial Activities: Commercial land can be used for various purposes, including warehouses, offices, restaurants, shops, and industries. The proximity of one commercial zone to another depends on the type of activity and vehicular traffic. 

Taxes and Returns 

1. Taxation of Rental Income: Rent received from any property, including commercial property, is taxed under the head 'income from house property' in India. 
2. Actual Rent or Reasonable Rent: The taxation is based on either the actual rent received from the property or the rent that can reasonably be expected from it, whichever is higher. 
3. Standard Deduction: A standard deduction of 30 percent is allowed on the rent received. This means you can deduct 30 percent of the rental income as an expense before calculating the taxable income. 
4. Deductions for Building Repairs and Renovations: You can claim deductions on the amount invested in building repairs and renovations for the commercial property. 
5. Interest on Loan: Under Section 24 of the Income Tax Act, you can claim the interest paid on the loan taken for the commercial property as a deduction. This includes processing fees and prepayment charges paid to the financial institution.
6. Availability of Standard Deduction: The standard deduction of 30 percent is available even if the actual expenses on the property are higher or lower than that percentage. It simplifies the deduction process. 

Check Documents 

1. Ownership Details: Review the property's registration papers to ascertain the number of owners. Knowing the ownership structure is essential to ensure a smooth and legitimate transaction.
2. Seller's Right to Sell: Verify if the seller has the legal right to trade the commercial property. Confirm that they have the authority to sell the asset and that there are no disputes or legal issues surrounding the ownership. 
3. Existing Loans or Pledges: Check for existing loans or pledges against the land parcel. Knowing if the property has been used as collateral for any debts or financial commitments is crucial. 
4. Clearance of Outstanding Dues: If the land has been mortgaged in the past, ensure there are no outstanding dues related to the mortgage. The seller should clear any pending payments before the deal is finalized. 
5. Title Search: Conduct a thorough title search to verify the property's history and ensure no legal encumbrances, liens, or claims could affect your ownership rights. 
6. Encumbrance Certificate: Obtain an encumbrance certificate from the registrar's office to verify if there are any legal claims or liabilities on the property. 
7. Approved Land Usage: Ensure the land is categorized as a commercial plot in the official records and falls within the designated commercial zone. 
8. Pending Litigations: Check for any ongoing legal disputes or litigations related to the property. Purchasing a plot involved in legal battles can lead to future complications. 
9. Land Boundary and Area: Verify that the boundaries and area mentioned in the registry papers match the actual physical boundaries of the land. 
10. Property Tax Records: Review the property tax records to ensure the seller has paid the appropriate taxes for the commercial plot.