Odisha released guidelines to simplify the registration process for apartments.

The government of Odisha has recently taken a step towards improving the process of apartment registration by issuing a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP). This move aims to bring more transparency, consistency, and efficiency to the entire process across the state. The SOP, which has been jointly issued by the Revenue and Disaster Management Department and the Housing and Urban Development Department, aims to address any uncertainties that may arise from the different interpretations of the Odisha Apartment Act, 2023, the Real Estate Act, 2016, and the Registration Act, 1908.

Under this new framework, the registration of apartments has been divided into three categories - resale of pre-RERA apartments, the first sale of unsold flats in pre-RERA projects, and post-RERA apartments. Each category has its own set of documents, verification procedures, and registration conditions outlined in the SOP. This will help streamline the process and make it more efficient for all parties involved.

For post-RERA apartments, registration will only be allowed after fulfilling certain mandatory requirements. These include registration under the Odisha RERA, obtaining an occupancy certificate, registering the Association of Allottees, registering the declaration under Section 9, and adhering to the rules for transferring common areas and amenities. Additionally, approval from the competent authority will also be necessary before registration, as per the SOP.

The SOP also clarifies the roles and responsibilities of competent authorities in different areas, such as the Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation, various development authorities, and revenue sub-divisions. This will ensure that the process is carried out smoothly and in a timely manner. The government has also announced that the existing 1% concession in stamp duty for apartment transfers in favor of women will continue.

Furthermore, nominal stamp duty and registration fees have been prescribed for deeds transferring common areas and amenities to Associations of Allottees. This will provide relief to homebuyers and promote good governance in the real estate sector. Overall, this initiative by the government of Odisha is a step towards making the apartment registration process more transparent, systematic, and citizen-centric, while also protecting the interests of homebuyers.

With this SOP in place, the government aims to bring greater efficiency and fairness to the process, making it beneficial for all parties involved.