What Questions Should You Ask Before Paying a Property Booking Amount?

Is This Property/Unit Being Held for Me?

Ask whether the booking payment actually reserves the specific unit/property and for how long.

Will the Price and Agreed Terms Be Locked After Booking?

Ask whether the quoted price and agreed terms will remain applicable after the booking payment. Clarify what, if anything, can change between booking and the next stage of the transaction.

What Written Confirmation Will I Receive After Payment?

Ask what document or confirmation you will receive immediately after making the booking payment. This could include a booking confirmation, receipt, allotment document or other applicable confirmation. Make sure the document clearly identifies the property and the amount paid.

What Happens If My Loan Is Not Approved?

If you are depending on a home loan, ask what happens to the booking if the required financing is not sanctioned. Clarify the applicable cancellation, refund and payment conditions before making the booking payment.

What Happens If I Decide Not to Proceed?

Ask specifically about the consequences of cancelling after booking. Understand:

Get these terms in writing.

What Happens If the Seller/Developer Does Not Proceed?

The buyer should also understand what happens if the transaction cannot proceed because of circumstances attributable to the seller/developer or the property. Ask what protections, refund provisions or other remedies apply under the applicable booking terms and agreement.

What Is the Exact Next Step After Booking?

Ask what happens immediately after the booking payment. For example:

The exact sequence can vary depending on the property and transaction, so ask for the applicable process and expected timelines.

Is Everything We Have Agreed Actually Recorded?

Before paying, review whether important discussions or commitments made during the property selection and booking process are reflected in the relevant written documents. This can include: