MahaRERA’s stringent rules and regulations imposed on builders and developers are strengthening its foothold in the real estate sector in Maharashtra. This premier government body governing the real estate industry in India has introduced several measures to curb the construction of illegal structures by imposing severe penalties even mounting to imprisonment and harsh financial penalties. In this blog let’s analyse the challenges faced by developers in Maharashtra if they fail to meet the compliances required by RERA.
The 5 Pillars of RERA
Transparency, Accountability, financial discipline, customer-centricity and compliance are the 5 pillars that define Maha RERA. Based on these parameters, builders face several challenges during their ongoing projects.
Financial Strain
Maha RERA has made it mandatory that 70% of the funds received from consumers should be deposited in a separate escrow account and be utilized only for construction-related purposes. This places a financial strain on builders as they cannot direct the funds to other projects and operational purposes. This restriction has forced them to seek funding from other sources often at higher interest rates impacting their profits.
Increased Accountability and Penalties
Builders are required to adhere to strict project timelines at the time of registration. Any delays on the builder’s part can result in hefty penalties, financial compensation to consumers and in severe cases even imprisonment.
Transparency in Marketing and Sales
Maha RERA has mandated that builders maintain strict transparency in marketing and sales. Misleading advertisements and false claims can result in severe penalties. Developers are required to invest in honest communication and information that is accurate which can be challenging in a highly competitive market.
Dispute Resolution
Legal disputes in real estate are usually time-consuming and the duration is long and tedious. Maha RERA has set up a grievance redressal mechanism that favours consumers to settle their disputes as quickly as possible leading to a favourable outcome for both the developer and the consumer.
Impact on Smaller Developers
Maha RERA’s mandate to developers to maintain consumer funds in a separate escrow account will impact smaller developers as they are not able to channel their funds for other purposes. In such a scenario small developers either exit or merge with big players.
Adapting to New Norms
Builders were used to running their businesses in their own way but with Maha RERA‘s intervention, it has become mandatory to operate within a highly regulated framework and complete projects keeping the deadlines in mind.
The need to understand and implement new processes, invest in technology for better compliance, and train staff has added to the operational challenges.
Consumer Awareness and Expectations
MahaRERA’s continuous efforts to make the consumer aware of his rights and the obligations of developers. Homebuyers are now more informed and aware of their rights and demand greater accountability and transparency from their respective developer.
By promoting transparency, accountability and efficiency Maha RERA has undoubtedly brought the much-needed reforms in the real estate sector in Maharashtra. The implementation of these regulations has posed challenges for developers but will benefit both the consumer and the developer thereby fostering transparency, trust and reliability. Developers must navigate this complex and evolving landscape by adopting and adapting to these regulations for the long-term benefit of consumers and promoting a more robust and trustworthy real estate landscape in Maharashtra