73% of property buyers in India use a broker. Yet most can't name their broker's RERA registration number — the single most basic piece of verification.
A good broker saves you 3–5% of the property value in negotiation alone. A bad broker costs you 2–3% in hidden commissions and wrong property choices.
The Indian real estate market has extreme information asymmetry. Builders know which projects are selling slowly (and will discount). Sellers know the actual reason they're selling. A good broker with 5+ years in a specific micro-market carries this intelligence — they know which floors get afternoon sun, which builder delayed their last 3 projects, which society has drainage issues. This knowledge is worth far more than the commission they charge.
All real estate agents operating in RERA-notified states must be registered. In Maharashtra, check MahaRERA (maharera.mahaonline.gov.in). The agent's RERA number should appear on all their communications, business cards, and listings. Ask for it directly. If they hesitate or claim exemption, walk away — there is no exemption for agents who assist in RERA-registered project transactions. A registered agent has passed background checks and is accountable under RERA's grievance mechanism.
Standard brokerage in India is 1–2% of the property value. What's not standard: undisclosed builder commissions. When a builder offers a broker 3% to push their project, the broker has a direct financial incentive to push it regardless of whether it's good for you. The RealtorDekho Commission Pledge requires brokers to publicly disclose any builder commission received. This doesn't eliminate builder commission — it makes it transparent so you can factor it into advice you receive.
Be cautious of brokers who: (1) Can only show you properties from one builder or a narrow set — may indicate exclusive kickback arrangements. (2) Pressure urgency ("another buyer is coming tomorrow") — classic manipulation. (3) Ask you to sign an exclusivity agreement upfront before showing you anything. (4) Cannot name the RERA number of any project they show you. (5) Downplay your request to see the EC, OC, or title chain — any broker worth hiring will support due diligence.
Ask any broker: What is your RERA number? Can I verify it? How many properties have you sold in this specific micro-market in the last 2 years? Have you ever told a buyer not to purchase a property — and why? What projects are you NOT recommending right now and why? The last two questions are the most revealing. A broker who has told clients not to buy (our "Said Don't Buy" signal) is one who prioritizes your interest over their commission.
Match with a RERA-verified broker who has signed our Commission Pledge. Your interests first — always.