How to Transfer Mortgaged and Unregistered Property Ownership in India

Understanding the Process of Transferring Mortgaged and Unregistered Properties
Are you also confused about transferring the ownership of your unregistered or mortgaged property? Then you are at the right place. In this blog we will talk about how you can get your unregistered and mortgage property transfer in just few steps.
Let’s explore…
What Is an Unregistered Property?
Unregistered property means, the estate that you have not registered in registrar office with the government of India. By not doing so, as per the Registration act 1908, you can get in property disputes and long court trails.
Why Is Property Registration Important?
Property registration serves as legal proof of ownership. It ensures that the transaction is protected and recognized by the law. Without registration, even if a sale agreement is in place, it cannot be used as evidence in legal disputes. In India, registration is crucial to safeguard both the buyer's and seller’s interests.
Can You Transfer Ownership of Unregistered Property?
Yes, but it involves extra steps. An unregistered property ownership transfer can happen, but it requires caution. Buyers should be aware that, without registration, the ownership transfer is incomplete. In this case, it’s common to enter into a tripartite agreement involving the seller, the buyer, and the builder (if applicable). However, this arrangement can sometimes expose you to risk.
How Can You Register an Unregistered Property?
If you want to transfer ownership of an unregistered property, you must first ensure it is registered with the authorities. Here are the key steps:
1. Visit the Sub-Registrar Office: Go to the sub-registrar office with the necessary documents.
2. Pay Stamp Duty and Registration Charges: The buyer typically bears the costs of stamp duty and registration charges.
3. Prepare a Sale Deed: After registration, a fresh sale deed should be prepared and executed.
4. Ensure All Documentation is Correct: Double-check all documents like previous sale deeds, identification papers, and receipts.
By following these steps, you can ensure that the property is legally registered, protecting both the seller’s and buyer’s rights.
What is Mortgaged Property?
A mortgaged property is one that is under a loan agreement. The property serves as collateral for the loan, meaning the lender has a claim on the property until the loan is paid off. Selling or transferring a mortgaged property is more complex as it involves settling the outstanding loan before the transfer.
How Can You Transfer Ownership of Mortgaged Property?
Transferring ownership of a mortgaged property requires careful planning. The first step is clearing the existing mortgage. The following options are available for property transfer in this case:
1. Buyer Pays the Outstanding Loan: The buyer can directly pay the remaining loan amount to the lender, and once cleared, the property documents will be released.
2. Buyer Takes a Loan from Seller's Bank: A tripartite agreement can be made involving the buyer, seller, and lender. The buyer’s bank assesses eligibility and clears the loan.
3. Buyer Secures a Loan from Another Bank: If the buyer's bank is involved, they may pay off the seller's loan and take possession of the property documents.
What Documents Are Required for Transferring Mortgaged Property?
When transferring a mortgaged property, both parties need to prepare specific documents:
1. Sale Deed: The official document proving the sale of the property.
2. Home Loan Documents: Papers related to the outstanding loan.
3. Encumbrance Certificate: A certificate showing that the property is free of legal liabilities.
4. NOC from Society: If applicable, a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the society is required.
5. Property Tax Receipts: Proof of tax payments on the property.
6. Consent from Co-Owners: In the case of joint ownership, consent from other owners is necessary.
What is a Short Sale in Mortgaged Property Transfer?
In cases where the property value is less than the loan amount, a short sale may be an option. A short sale allows the seller to pay off the lender a reduced amount, with the lender's consent. However, this process requires approval from the lender and should be approached carefully.
How Does Mortgage Affect the Buyer?
When buying a mortgaged property, the buyer must be aware of the loan balance. If the loan remains unsettled, the lender has a legal claim on the property. Therefore, the buyer needs to confirm the loan amount before finalizing the deal.
What Are the Risks of Buying Unregistered or Mortgaged Property?
Buying an unregistered or mortgaged property comes with risks:
1. Unregistered Property: You may face disputes over ownership, and the transaction may not be legally recognized.
2. Mortgaged Property: If the loan isn’t cleared, the lender can seize the property.
How to Protect Yourself When Dealing with Unregistered or Mortgaged Property?
To avoid potential issues when transferring ownership of unregistered or mortgaged property, take the following precautions:
1. Verify Ownership: Ensure the property is properly registered and that the seller has clear ownership.
2. Seek Legal Advice: Consult a lawyer for guidance on dealing with mortgaged or unregistered property.
3. Complete the Documentation: Ensure all required documents are correctly prepared and executed.
4. Clear the Loan: Ensure the outstanding mortgage is paid before transfer if dealing with a mortgaged property.
Conclusion: How to Ensure a Smooth Transfer of Mortgaged or Unregistered Property?
Transferring mortgaged or unregistered property ownership in India requires careful handling of legalities, documentation, and financial obligations. The first step in both cases is to address the legal status of the property – whether it involves registration or settling an outstanding mortgage.
By following the right procedures, engaging with legal experts, and being cautious about documentation, both buyers and sellers can ensure that the transfer process is completed successfully.