What is RERA?
The Real Estate (Regulation and Development) Act, 2016 (RERA) was enacted to protect homebuyers and bring transparency to real estate transactions. In Goa, RERA is administered by the Goa Real Estate Regulatory Authority. All residential and commercial projects exceeding 500 square metres of land area or involving more than 8 apartments must be registered with RERA before marketing or selling.
Buyer Rights Under RERA
RERA provides strong protections: developers must deposit 70% of project funds in a designated escrow account, construction must adhere to sanctioned plans without deviation, buyers are entitled to full refund with interest if possession is delayed beyond the agreed date, carpet area must be clearly defined and disclosed, and false advertising is penalised. Buyers also have the right to access all project documents including approvals, plans, and financial statements.
How to Verify a Project
Visit the Goa RERA website and search for the project by name, developer, or registration number. The portal displays: the project's RERA registration number, approved plans and specifications, expected completion date, number of units sold vs unsold, and the developer's track record. Any project being marketed without RERA registration is operating illegally — avoid such projects entirely.
Filing Complaints
If a developer violates RERA provisions, buyers can file complaints with the Goa RERA Authority. Complaints can be filed online through the RERA portal. Common grounds include: delayed possession, deviation from approved plans, failure to maintain the escrow account, and non-disclosure of material information. RERA has the power to impose penalties, order refunds, and in extreme cases, revoke project registration.
Need Expert Guidance?
Our Goa real estate advisory team can help you navigate the market and find the perfect property.