Ready-to-move flats cost more upfront but carry less risk and, with an occupancy certificate, no GST. Under-construction homes are cheaper and can be paid in stages, but you wait for possession and carry delivery risk, which RERA reduces but does not remove.
Price and tax
At the time of writing, GST on an under-construction home is 5% without input tax credit for non-affordable housing and 1% for affordable housing within the government's limits. A completed home with an occupancy certificate attracts no GST. This difference alone can change which option is cheaper.
Risk and timing
With a ready home you see exactly what you are buying and can move in quickly. With an under-construction home you depend on the builder meeting the schedule. Check the MahaRERA completion date and the promoter's history.
Cash flow
Under-construction homes let you pay in stages and may reduce the early EMI burden, but you may pay rent and EMI together for a while. Run the numbers for both scenarios before choosing.
- Ready: higher upfront cost, immediate use, no GST on a completed home with OC
- Under construction: lower entry price, stage payments, wait for possession
Our rule of thumb
If you need the home soon or dislike uncertainty, go ready-to-move. If you can wait and the builder has a strong delivery record, an under-construction project can be better value.
Questions people ask
What is an occupancy certificate (OC)?
Can I switch from under-construction to ready later?
Want this checked for your property?
Send us the project name, location and your budget on WhatsApp. We will tell you what to verify before you pay anything.
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