The ABCs of MahaRERA's Grading System

Transparency is essential for homebuyers, because it allows them to make informed decisions and avoid deceptive practices. Buyers can organise their budgets, negotiate successfully, and trust developers if they have access to correct information regarding property prices, legal compliance, and project timeframes. Transparent interactions foster a fair and secure real estate environment, protecting homebuyers' interests. The newest real estate grading system put in practice by MahaRERA fosters openness in real estate transactions in several ways.

At Sonigara Corp, we give utmost importance to integrity, transparency and fair business practices. We are committed to providing the best value for our customers, through various residential and commercial properties. As a part of our efforts to enhance transparency, let’s explore this latest development in the real estate segment.

What is MahaRERA Grading System?

The real estate grading system by MahaRERA assesses projects based on various criteria, including financial feasibility, technical approvals from a competent authority, ongoing litigation, and the promoters' compliance track record, and provides appropriate ratings. Globally, there are different types of grading processes. Having one for Indian real estate projects will benefit customers, while providing better understanding about suitability of the projects for their needs and budget.

The Need for Grading

Real estate projects vary widely in terms of quality, location, and amenities. The MahaRERA stated that based on the project's grade, homebuyers can obtain a better understanding of which projects are the greatest fit for their needs and budget. The grading system would be based on variables such as location, infrastructure, amenities, construction quality, and legal compliance. This meticulous approach would give potential buyers and investors a clear picture of the value of a property, allowing them to make informed decisions. Furthermore, the grading system would encourage developers to uphold better standards and improve the overall quality of real estate offerings across the country, encouraging a healthier and more reliable real estate ecosystem.

Implementation of the Grading System

Real estate rating and grading systems are already well-established in nations such as Singapore, Dubai, and Australia. MahaRERA has sought opinions from the public and stakeholders on the real estate grading system until July 15. All projects filed after January 20, 2023, will be eligible for grading under this grading system framework. The first round of grading will take place between October 1, 2023, and March 1, 2024. The exercise will be repeated twice a year, but starting in January 2023, all projects registered will be graded.

Initially, the administration would prioritise project grading above developers. As the system settles, a matrix for grading promoters will be considered. Developers will have to give financial information, such as liabilities, project progress, and annual audit certificates. The ranking will be determined by releasing four critical snapshots of the project in the second and final phases, depending on the given information. It will include a project overview as well as technical, financial, and legal information on the project.

Exploring the Pros and Cons of the Grading System

While the MahaRERA real estate grading system has several advantages, it also has some disadvantages. Let's delve deeper into the grading system's pros and cons:

Pros:
  • Standardisation: The grading system provides a standardised approach to evaluating properties, allowing buyers and investors to compare alternative options based on predetermined criteria.
  • Clarity and Transparency: A grading system allows buyers to rapidly comprehend a property's quality and attributes, encouraging transparency in the real estate market.
  • Efficiency: Real estate agents and developers can utilise the MahaRERA grading system to streamline their marketing efforts and more effectively target specific buyer demographics.
  • Investment Advice: Property grades can be used by investors to estimate prospective risks and returns, assisting them in making informed investment decisions.
Cons:
  • Subjectivity: Grading systems are susceptible to subjectivity since various evaluators may interpret criteria differently, resulting in inconsistent ratings.
  • Incomplete Information: The grading system may not take into account all essential elements, resulting in an inaccurate picture of a property's value or potential.
  • Lack of Customisation: Because grading systems largely focus on predetermined criteria, they may fail to accommodate particular customer preferences.
  • Changing Market Dynamics: Real estate markets can change quickly, and a grading system may not be able to keep up with current trends or changing property prices.