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Why NRIs Are Rushing to Buy Farmhouse Plots Near PuneThe Rise of Plot Scams in Pune: How They Operate & How Buyers Can Stay Safe
Pune’s real estate landscape has grown rapidly over the past decade. Expanding IT hubs, growing infrastructure, and rising demand for second homes have made the city a magnet for investors. But alongside this growth, Pune has also witnessed an alarming increase in land-related fraud. These scams have become sophisticated, well-planned, and often involve networks of agents, document forgers, and impersonators.
Areas such as Mulshi, Wagholi, Baner, Tathawade, and Mohammadwadi have seen some of the biggest fraud cases in recent years. Understanding how these scams work is essential for anyone planning to invest in land around Pune.
- Forged Documents & Impersonation Scams
One of the most common forms of land fraud in Pune involves forged ownership records. Fraudsters prepare fake 7/12 extracts, falsified sale deeds, or bogus power of attorney papers. In many cases, they impersonate real landowners at registration offices using forged identity documents.
How This Scam Works
Scammers identify valuable land belonging to someone who lives outside Pune or abroad.
They recreate the owner’s documents using high-quality forgeries.
They use fake Aadhaar/PAN cards to pose as the owner.
The land is sold to an unsuspecting buyer at a seemingly legitimate rate.
These scams often go unnoticed until the real owner or vigilant neighbors discover that a fraudulent sale has taken place.
- Illegal Sale of Government or Restricted Land
Many plots in Pune are legally restricted — including government land, grazing land (gairan), forest-affected land, and land reserved for public projects. Fraudsters take advantage of complex land records and outdated documents to present such land as privately owned.
Typical Pattern
Scammers obtain older records where ownership details are unclear.
They manipulate or recreate entries to show private ownership.
They then sell the land cheaply, claiming fast appreciation.
Buyers later discover that the land cannot be transferred, developed, or registered, resulting in total financial loss.
- Misleading “Social Media Offers” for Farmhouse Plots
The rise of social media advertising has made it easy for fraudsters to attract buyers with glossy reels and unrealistically low prices. This trend is especially common in scenic areas like Mulshi and Velhe.
Typical Tactics
Extremely low per-guntha pricing to create urgency.
Attractive photos and drone shots of entirely different plots.
Charging booking amounts or “site visit fees” in advance.
Showing land that is either disputed, inaccessible, or not legally saleable.
Many buyers fall into the trap because of fear of missing out and attractive payment plans.
- Fraudulent “Pre-Launch” Plotting Projects
Several scamsters present large plotting layouts as “pre-launch opportunities” with promises of steep returns. These projects often lack basic approvals such as NA conversion, layout sanction, and RERA registration.
Red Flags
Heavy discounts for early bookings.
No RERA number displayed or ambiguity about approvals.
Vague timelines and incomplete paperwork.
Pressure to pay immediately to avail “pre-launch pricing.”
Such projects frequently stall, never begin, or get tangled in legal disputes.
- Multi-Sale of the Same Plot
This is a classic and still widespread scam in Pune. Fraudsters show the same plot to multiple buyers, take partial payments from all of them, and then disappear.
How This Scam Plays Out
A genuine-looking plot is shown.
Documents appear legit, often forged.
Booking amounts or part payments are collected from several buyers.
The scammer vanishes or the plot is later found to be disputed.
Victims often discover each other only when they try to register the property.
- Fraud Around Agricultural & NA Conversion Claims
Buyers looking for second homes or investment in green zones often get misled by promises of immediate NA (non-agriculture) conversion.
The Trap
Agricultural land is sold with the claim that NA conversion is “already applied for.”
Buyers are told they can start construction immediately.
Months or years later, buyers realise that NA conversion was never processed.
The land remains agricultural and cannot be used for the promised purpose.
This scam exploits the lack of understanding of Maharashtra land laws.
Why Pune Is Especially Vulnerable to Plot Scams
Several factors contribute to Pune’s high rate of land fraud:
High demand from IT professionals, NRIs, and investors.
Large areas of fragmented ownership make verification harder.
Complex revenue records and outdated documents.
Rapid expansion of city outskirts, where monitoring is weak.
Dependence on brokers, many of whom operate without regulation.
These conditions create the perfect environment for scammers to operate.
How Buyers Can Protect Themselves
Buying land requires more checks than buying a flat. Here are the essential safeguards every buyer in Pune should follow:
- Do a 30–35 Year Title Search
- Always Verify the Latest 7/12 Extract
The extract must match:
The seller’s name
Survey number
Land area
Type of land
Existing liabilities or reservations
Obtain it from the official revenue office or government portal.
- Check NA Status, Zoning, and Approvals
For plotting layouts:
Verify NA order
Layout sanction
RERA registration
Road access and DP reservations
A legally clean plot will always have complete documentation.
- Physically Inspect the Land
Visit the land with:
A local surveyor
A lawyer (if possible)
Boundary measurement tools
Confirm that the land shown matches the documents.
- Be Wary of Prices That Are Too Low
If the price seems too low for the location, it is likely that there is a problem. This is because scammers will often use low prices to lure people into buying plots that are priced well below market rate.
- Record All Payments
Make all payments through:
Cheques
Bank transfers
RTGS/NEFT
Do not pay in cash.
- Report All Suspicious Transactions Immediately
If you feel that something is not right:
Cancel the transaction
Consult a lawyer
Report the incident to the authorities
This will help you avoid losing more money.
Conclusion
The Pune real estate market is still a rapidly growing market, but buyers need to be very cautious. The plot scam today is a very complex and layered scam that involves fake documents and unethical networks. The only way to stay safe is to be aware and have all transactions checked by a lawyer.
An NA plot, a non-agricultural plot, is considered unsuitable for agricultural activities. Instead, it offers various possibilities for development, including the construction of residential homes, apartments, shopping malls, office buildings, and factories.
What are the different types of NA Plots?
Non-agricultural plots encompass various land types, each serving distinct purposes. These include residential plots catering to housing needs; commercial plots, facilitating the establishment of businesses; warehouse plots, providing storage and logistics solutions; and IT land, dedicated to developing technology and related infrastructure. Each plot type offers its own defining features and advantages to suit various developmental requirements.
Is NA order required in Maharashtra?
In a recent development, the Maharashtra government has taken a significant step by announcing that builders will no longer be required to obtain separate Non-Agricultural (NA) permission for plots.
This decision has been warmly received by realtors in the city. Prior to this, developers had to go through a cumbersome process of visiting multiple offices to secure NA permission, which often resulted in long waiting periods.
With the new ruling, this time-consuming and bureaucratic procedure will be eliminated, streamlining the development process and potentially accelerating construction projects across the state.
How can you obtain NA land in Maharashtra?
To obtain an NA certificate for land in Maharashtra, you'll need to follow these steps:
- Download the PDF application form for Non-Agricultural Permission.
- Complete the application form in duplicate and affix a court fee stamp of rupees 5.
- Provide the original Extract of 7/12 (land ownership document) and four photocopies.
- Include copies of relevant mutation entries pertaining to the land in question.
By submitting these required documents, you can obtain the Non-Agricultural permission certificate for your land in Maharashtra.
How to convert agricultural land into NA land?
Converting agricultural land to Non-Agricultural (NA) land in Maharashtra involves the following steps:
- Visit the District Collector’s Office and apply for land conversion.
- The District Collector will thoroughly verify the land and the proposed conversion.
- The Tahsildar, a revenue officer, will also verify the details and assess the suitability for conversion.
- Once the verification process is completed successfully, the Conversion Order will be issued, granting NA status to the land.
- Appropriate entries reflecting the land's new NA status will be made in the Revenue Records, officially recognizing the conversion.
Following these steps, you can convert agricultural land to NA land in Maharashtra.
Gunthewari land refers to a development where multiple plots are created through the unauthorized sub-division of privately-owned land under the Urban Land Act of 1976 provisions.
This type of land falls under the jurisdiction of the Maharashtra state government. In Gunthewari land, the original landowner or developers divide the property without obtaining the necessary approvals, forming numerous smaller plots without adhering to proper legal procedures.
These areas often lack essential infrastructure and may face regulatory challenges due to their unauthorized status.
What types of land are there in Gunthewari?
Within Gunthewari, you will come across four primary types of land classifications. These include forest, agricultural, desert, and urban land.
Each category possesses distinct characteristics and serves specific purposes, offering diverse options for potential development or investment.
Understanding these different land types is crucial when considering any projects or investments in Gunthewari.
Is Gunthewari land a safe investment?
Gunthewari land can be a viable option if you are considering long-term investment opportunities. However, it's crucial to be cautious about the location selection, as these lands may be in flood-prone areas. Therefore, investing in a plot that is not at risk of flooding is essential.
On the positive side, Gunthewari land can be a safe and secure investment, especially in areas with low crime rates. Choosing a plot in a safe and secure neighborhood is important to ensure the best outcome, offering a promising prospect for your investment endeavors.
How can you get a Gunthewadi land lease?
To secure a Gunthewari land lease, begin by identifying a suitable plot of Gunthewari land you wish to lease. Subsequently, contact the landowner and express your intention to lease the land.Upon expressing interest, the landowner will furnish you with a lease agreement that outlines the terms and conditions.
After carefully reviewing the agreement, sign it and return it to the landowner. As per the agreement, you must make monthly payments as per the agreed-upon lease amount. By following this process, you can successfully obtain a Gunthewari land lease for your intended use or investment.- Genuine Plots
A title clearance certificate is a document issued by solicitors and advocates that confirms the legitimacy of ownership and verifies the absence of disputes, liens, debts, or encumbrances associated with a specific property.
It provides crucial information such as the nature of the title held by the property promoter and vendor, any claims or encumbrances related to the property, and the necessary steps to clear the title and make it legally marketable. Additionally, it clarifies whether the sale agreement will legally bind the property owner and helps address any doubts regarding the nature of the vendor or promoter.
How to Acquire a Title Search Report?
To acquire a title search report, you need to engage the services of an advocate or solicitor. They will conduct a thorough investigation by examining registered documents at the local sub-registrar’s office (SRO).
The process of obtaining a comprehensive title search report involves scrutinizing various aspects such as the property's ownership history, building permits, zoning regulations, and property rights.
To ensure a clear and accurate report, a buyer typically hires an advocate who specializes in assessing the legal documents associated with the property. The advocate's task is to identify any encumbrances, disputes, or other issues affecting the property's title and compile a detailed report accordingly.
To determine if a property has a clear title, consider the following steps:
- Thoroughly examine the title papers: Review the property's title documents in detail. It is advisable to engage a lawyer with expertise in property law to assist you in this process. A clear title indicates the absence of any disputes or legal issues associated with the property.
- Verify bank approvals: If the property has received approval from reputable banks or financial institutions, it generally indicates that it is free from encumbrances and disputes. Banks typically conduct their own due diligence before approving a property for financing.
- Obtain an encumbrance certificate: Request an encumbrance certificate from the local sub-registrar office (SRO) to verify the title clearance. This document will disclose any mortgages, liens, or other encumbrances on the property.
- Cross-check approved plans: Ensure the site aligns with the approved building plans. This step helps confirm that the property complies with local regulations and that there are no unauthorized constructions or deviations.
- Review property tax slips: Inspect the property tax payment receipts when considering a resale property. Clear and up-to-date property tax records indicate a clear title and ownership.
- Confirm necessary documents: Ensure the seller provides all necessary documents proving title clearance. This may include previous sale agreements, possession certificates, and other relevant paperwork.
When seeking professional advice from Genuine Plots and following these steps, you can thoroughly check to determine if a property has a clear title.
Understanding Land Records in India: Your Guide to Khatian Numbers
Every piece of land in India has important documents that tell us who owns it, what it's used for, and other essential details. Just like we have papers to show who we are and our rights, land has a Record of Rights (RoR) or Khatian.
A Khatian number is like an ID for the land. It holds all the information about a piece of land, like who owns it and its history. When the government gives land records to owners, each record is assigned a Khatian number. This number includes DAG/khasra, khata, and Khatauni numbers.
Land records are vital because they prove who owns the land and other certified details. They help gather all the necessary information about the land, prevent fraud, and avoid illegal activities or land grabbing. These records are also crucial in legal matters related to properties.
Now, let's talk about some important terms:
DAG number: The Khasra number is like an ID for a piece of land in villages or plots in urban areas. It tells us about the ownership of the land, the type of soil, the crops that can be cultivated, and the history of the land.
Khata number: This is given to joint landowners, providing information about co-owners and their holdings in the land. Suppose there are changes in the land's ownership; a new khata number is given.
Khatauni number: Unlike Khasra and Khata numbers, Khatauni is assigned to cultivators, not the land. It contains information about the cultivators and their cultivation areas.
Khasra, Khata, and Khatauni numbers give us details about the land, its ownership, and the people cultivating it. You can easily find this information online or by visiting the official land records office.
Understanding these numbers is essential, especially for those who own or are interested in land. They help in knowing the history of the land and any changes that might have happened over the years. These numbers are like a land's identity card for non-English speakers, telling its story and ensuring its rightful ownership.
In Maharashtra, you can find your Khasra, Khata, or Khatauni details by visiting the following website Bhulekh Mahabhumi.Let Genuine Plots be your guide through seamless plot buying paperwork. Discover your dream plot effortlessly.
Gram Panchayat Plots: Buying Tips and Risks for Informed Investments
Investing in Gram Panchayat lands has become popular, offering an attractive option for those seeking affordable property. These plots, falling under the jurisdiction of Gram Panchayats, often boast lower prices compared to city properties, making them a compelling choice for investors.
Understanding Gram Panchayat Lands:
Gram Panchayat lands are primarily agricultural and are intended for farming activities. However, their appeal lies in the potential for conversion into non-agricultural land, allowing for residential or commercial use. To convert, one must obtain consent for a "change of land use" from local authorities, typically the collector or district magistrate.
Conversion Process:
The conversion process involves submitting an application detailing the property's specifics, reasons for conversion, and relevant documents such as ID proof, certified survey maps, and mutation letters. The Land Revenue Department's commissioner reviews the application, ensuring no pending dues or litigation on the land.
Merits of Buying Gram Panchayat Plots:
- Lower Investment Cost: Gram Panchayat plots offer reasonable prices, making them suitable for those with smaller budgets.
- Higher Returns: These plots have high resale value, offering the potential for greater profits in the long run.
Demerits of Buying Gram Panchayat Plots:
- Basic Amenities: Gram Panchayat areas may lack certain facilities like electricity, water supply, and proper sewage, requiring adjustments to a simpler lifestyle.
- Connectivity Issues: The infrastructure in Gram Panchayat areas may not match city standards, with challenges in road conditions and limited transportation options.
Wrapping Up
While Gram Panchayat plots present affordable investment opportunities with potential returns, weighing the benefits against the challenges is essential. Understanding the conversion process and being prepared for adjustments in lifestyle and infrastructure can lead to a successful and fulfilling investment. Always conduct thorough research and seek guidance of Genuine Plots to make informed decisions in the dynamic world of real estate.