⚡ Quick Answer
Booking a new flat usually follows five steps: expression of interest (EOI), booking amount, allotment letter, agreement for sale and registration. Under RERA, a developer cannot take more than 10% of the cost as an advance before a written agreement for sale is registered.
- Read every document before you pay.
- Pay only by traceable bank transfer or cheque to the developer’s account.
- Keep copies of every receipt and letter.
Once you have chosen your home, the paperwork begins. Words like EOI, allotment letter and agreement for sale can be confusing, especially for first-time buyers.
This guide walks through each step of booking a new home in Maharashtra in plain English, with what to check at every stage. Exact steps can vary by project, so always confirm with the developer.
Table of Contents
- The Booking Process at a Glance
- Step 1: Expression of Interest (EOI)
- Step 2: Booking Form and Booking Amount
- Step 3: The Allotment Letter
- Step 4: The Agreement for Sale
- Step 5: Stamp Duty and Registration
- After Registration
- Mistakes to Avoid During Booking
- Related Guides
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Conclusion: Read, Verify, Then Pay
The Booking Process at a Glance
| Step | What it is | What you get |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Expression of interest (EOI) | An early sign that you want a home, often before or at launch | EOI receipt; usually a priority, not a specific unit |
| 2. Booking | You choose a unit and pay the booking amount | Booking form and payment receipt |
| 3. Allotment letter | The developer confirms your unit | Allotment letter with unit, price and payment schedule |
| 4. Agreement for sale | The main legal contract | Signed agreement with all terms |
| 5. Registration | The agreement is registered after paying stamp duty | Registered agreement and receipts |
Planning to book at L&T The Gateway Sewri? Our project-specific guide on how to book a flat at L&T The Gateway Sewri covers the checks, documents and payment steps for this project.
Step 1: Expression of Interest (EOI)
Some projects invite an EOI before units are formally released. It shows the developer you are interested and may give you priority when units are allotted. Ask whether the EOI amount is refundable, how long it is valid and what happens if you do not get the unit you want.
Step 2: Booking Form and Booking Amount
When you choose a specific unit, you fill a booking or application form and pay a booking amount. Read the form carefully, especially the cancellation terms. Pay only to the developer’s official bank account, never in cash and never to a personal account.
Step 3: The Allotment Letter
- Unit detailsTower, floor, unit number and RERA carpet area.
- PriceTotal price and what it includes.
- Payment scheduleWhen each payment is due. See the 20:80 payment plan for one example.
- ParkingNumber and type of car parks, if any.
- CancellationWhat happens if you cancel, and any deduction.
Step 4: The Agreement for Sale
The agreement for sale is the most important document. Under RERA, it should follow the prescribed format and cover the unit, carpet area, price, payment plan, possession date, specifications, defect liability and what happens in case of delay or cancellation. Ask for a draft in advance and, ideally, have a lawyer review it.
Check that the possession date matches the project’s MahaRERA page. Read the possession date explained and how to verify a project on MahaRERA.
Step 5: Stamp Duty and Registration
The agreement for sale is registered at the sub-registrar’s office after stamp duty and registration fees are paid. You, or your representative, sign in person with ID proof. Our guides on documents to buy and register a flat and stamp duty, GST and other charges explain what you need.
After Registration
- Loan disbursement. If you take a loan, the bank releases funds as per the plan. See our home loan guide.
- Demand letters. Pay each instalment on time against the developer’s demand letters.
- Keep records. Store every receipt, letter and the registered agreement safely.
- Track progress. Follow updates on the MahaRERA project page.
Mistakes to Avoid During Booking
- Paying in cashAlways pay by bank transfer or cheque to the developer’s official account and get a receipt.
- Signing without readingRead the booking form, allotment letter and agreement in full.
- Not checking the carpet areaMake sure the RERA carpet area in the documents matches your unit. See carpet area explained.
- Missing the cancellation termsKnow what you lose if you change your mind.
- Ignoring the possession clauseCheck the date, grace period and delay terms.
- Losing documentsKeep originals safe and scan copies.
Booking around Diwali or another festival? Read buying a home during the festive season in Mumbai to judge festive offers calmly.
If you are buying from abroad, there are extra steps such as a power of attorney. Read the NRI buying guide.
Related Guides
- Documents you need to buy and register a flat in Maharashtra
- Buying through an authorised channel partner
- L&T The Gateway Sewri price
- Buying a flat in Sewri: step-by-step guide
- Possession handover checklist: how to inspect your new flat
- L&T The Gateway Sewri: answers to common buyer questions
- Joint Home Ownership in Mumbai: Buying a Flat with Your Spouse or Family
- Car Parking in Mumbai Apartments: Covered, Stilt, Podium and Mechanical
- Home Insurance for a New Flat in Mumbai: A Simple Guide
- Moving Into Your New Home in Mumbai: A Step-by-Step Checklist
- Agreement for Sale: Key Clauses to Read Before You Sign
- Buying a Second Home in Mumbai: A Practical Guide
- Real Estate Glossary for Mumbai Home Buyers: Key Terms Explained
- L&T The Gateway Sewri MahaRERA Number: P51900054969 and How to Verify It
- Cancelling a Flat Booking in Maharashtra: Refund Rules Explained
- How to Book a Flat at L&T The Gateway Sewri: Step-by-Step Guide
- Down Payment for a Flat in Mumbai: How Much Cash Do You Really Need?
- Legal Due Diligence Before Buying a Flat in Mumbai: A Simple Checklist
- Buying a Home During the Festive Season in Mumbai: A Calm, Practical Guide
- How to Track the Construction Progress of Your Under-Construction Flat
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an allotment letter?
It is a letter from the developer confirming the unit allotted to you, with its price, carpet area and payment schedule.
How much can a developer take before the agreement for sale?
Under Section 13 of RERA, not more than 10% of the cost of the apartment without a written, registered agreement for sale.
Is an EOI amount refundable?
It depends on the project. Ask for the refund terms in writing before you pay.
Do I need a lawyer for the agreement for sale?
It is not mandatory, but having a lawyer review the draft agreement is a sensible step for most buyers.
When is stamp duty paid?
Stamp duty is paid before the agreement for sale is registered at the sub-registrar’s office.
Can I cancel after the allotment letter?
Usually yes, but cancellation terms and any deduction are set out in the booking form and agreement. Read them before you pay.
Conclusion: Read, Verify, Then Pay
The booking process is simple once you know the steps: EOI, booking, allotment letter, agreement for sale and registration. At each step, read the document, check it against MahaRERA, pay only through traceable banking and keep copies. To understand the booking steps for L&T The Gateway Sewri, enquire now or call +91 80503 63647.
L&T The Gateway, Sewri
MahaRERA No. P51900054969
Get the project details, floor plans and price sheet for 3, 4 and 4.5 BHK residences in Sewri, Mumbai. Our team will call you back.
