Indian property terms explained: a plain-language glossary

General information, not legal advice. Terms and rules differ by state and by agreement. Read your own documents and ask a lawyer when money or ownership is at stake.

Property ads are full of short words that assume you already know them. This glossary gives a plain answer to each, so you can read a listing or an agreement with confidence.

Words you see on rental listings

• Unfurnished: no furniture or appliances, though lights, fans and kitchen fittings may be there. Ask what is included.
• Semi-furnished: some items such as wardrobes, a modular kitchen, lights and fans, but usually no bed or sofa. There is no fixed list, so ask for it in writing.
• Fully furnished: ready to live in, with beds, sofa, wardrobes and usually appliances such as a fridge and washing machine. Check what works before you move in.
• Security deposit: money you pay at the start and get back at the end, less any agreed deductions. See how a security deposit works.
• Lock-in period: a minimum time you agree to stay (or the owner agrees to let you stay). Leaving early may cost you a penalty.
• Notice period: how long before leaving you must tell the owner in writing.
• Maintenance: the monthly society charge for common areas. Ask whether it is included in the rent or paid by you on top. See society maintenance charges explained.

Words you see on sale listings

• Ready to move: the building is complete and you can take possession now. Compare with under-construction in ready to move vs under construction.
• Possession: the date the owner hands over the property to you.
• Resale: a property being sold by its current owner, not a builder selling a new one.
• Token amount: a small advance paid to hold a property while the paperwork is prepared. Pay it only to a verified owner, against a written receipt. See how to verify an owner before you pay.
• Carpet area, built-up area, super built-up area: three ways of measuring size. See what each one means.
• Freehold and leasehold: whether you own the land outright or for a fixed term. See freehold vs leasehold.

Words about approvals and papers

• Sale deed: the registered document that transfers ownership from seller to buyer.
• Khata: a local-authority record of a property used for tax. In Bengaluru, see A khata and B khata.
• Occupancy certificate: proof from the local authority that a building was completed as approved and is fit to live in. See occupancy and completion certificates.
• RERA: the real estate regulator's registration for projects. See RERA explained.
• Encumbrance: a claim on the property, such as a loan or a dispute. An encumbrance certificate lists registered claims.

For a full list of documents to ask for, read the approvals and documents checklist. For what the word BHK means, see what BHK means.