What is a Property Card in Maharashtra? A Complete Guide for Homebuyers

In India, property cards are issued by state governments as an official document showing ownership information regarding urban property. It serves as official evidence of the ownership of an urban property and includes many important details about the property, including the owner’s name, survey number, and legal status.

The property card regime is restricted to urban property, whereas rural property uses an alternative type of record known as the “7/12 Extract”. The advent of e-property cards has made retrieving owner and land records easier because they may now be retrieved electronically.

If you’re wondering, “Why should I even care about a property card?” then here are some points that show you the importance of a property card:

A property card is a document that holds the necessary information that determines the legal identity and status of a property. You can save yourself a lot of money by knowing these facts, whether you are buying, selling, or just doing research.

The following is what you will usually see on a property card:

• Name of Property Owner: This establishes the legal owner of the property. It should always be the name of the seller: any discrepancy is a big warning.

• Property Address and Survey Number: Each property has a distinct survey number and the official address of the property, which is easy to trace in government records.

• Land Area and Boundaries: This is a clear statement of the size, dimensions, and physical boundaries of the property so that you are aware of what you are buying.

• Encumbrance Details: Indicates the existence of any loans, legal disputes, or claims on the property. This will assist you in avoiding properties that have concealed liabilities.

• Tax Information: Refers to whether property taxes are paid or whether there are any outstanding dues with the government.

• Mutation Entries (Ownership History): Records previous ownership changes, providing you with a clear history and assisting in confirming that the title is clean.

A property card is a guarantee of transparency and safeguards all parties in a real estate deal. Always verify these details before closing any business in Mumbai or Maharashtra: when something does not make sense, then it is time to back off.  

Even though both documents are important documents related to land matters in Maharashtra, they are used for different purposes depending on the location and type of property.

Property Card

• Used for urban properties like cities and towns.
• Contains details about the ownership of the land, the boundaries and the legal status of the land.

7/12 Extract (Satbara Utara)

• Used for agricultural or rural lands.
• Contains details about the land ownership and the crops grown on the land, along with the history of the cultivation.

In simple words, if you are purchasing property in a city such as Mumbai, you will require a property card. In the case of villages or farmland, the 7/12 extract is needed.

To obtain or update a property card, you typically need the following documents:

• Sale Deed / Title Deed: Proof of ownership of the property
• Identity Proof: Aadhaar card, PAN card, or any government-issued ID
• Address Proof: Utility bills, Aadhaar, or passport
• Previous Property Documents: Earlier ownership records (if applicable)
• Encumbrance Certificate: To verify that the property is free from legal or financial liabilities
• Property Tax Receipts: Latest receipts showing taxes have been paid
• Mutation Application (if applicable): Required when ownership is being transferred

Note: The exact documents may vary slightly depending on the case (new property, resale, inheritance, etc.), so it’s always a good idea to confirm with the local City Survey Office.

Applying for a property card in Mumbai is now a hassle-free process with the online portal for land records.

Getting a Property Card Online (The Digital Property Card Method)

If you’re wondering how to get a property card online? Then follow these steps to get your e-property card in Mumbai:

Step 1. Visit the Official Website

• Go to the Maharashtra Land Records portal

Step 2. Create an Account

• Navigate to the Right to Services page.
• Register by providing your basic details.
• Use the credentials sent to your registered email to log in.

Step 3. Select the Required Service

• Find the Revenue Department Services section.
• Click on the option to apply for a certified copy of a property card.

Step 4. Enter Property and Applicant Details

• Applicant’s name and address
• Email ID and Aadhaar Card number
• Ward number, final plot number, city survey number
• Number of copies required
• Office order date and enquiry register details

Step 5. Upload Necessary Documents

• Upload a recent photo 
• Valid ID proof 
• Digitised signature

Step 6. Make Payment and Submit Application

• Complete the payment through the online payment gateway.
• Once done, the application details will be displayed on the screen.

Step 7. Track Your Application

• The portal allows you to check the status of your property card application anytime.

Getting a Property Card Offline (The Traditional Method)

• Visit the Local Revenue Office: Find the nearest land records office.

• Submit Required Documents: Bring your ID, sale deed, and proof of ownership.

• Wait for Processing: The authorities will verify the documents.

• Collect Your Property Card: If everything is in order, you’ll get your property card.

Both methods work, but going online saves you time.

• You can verify that your property card is a legitimate document with these steps:
• Access the Government Portal: Look up the records for the property using your state’s official government website.
• Owner’s Name: Verify that the name of the property is the same as the name of the seller.
• Encumbrance Verification: Make sure there are no current loans or pending lawsuits against the property.
• Change of Ownership History: If there have been a lot of transfers for the property, find out what caused the frequent changes in ownership.
• Consult with an Attorney: If you are unsure about anything regarding the property, speak with an attorney before completing the purchase.

Here’s how to make sure your property card is 100% legit:

• Check the Government Website: Use the state government’s portal to verify records.
• Verify the Owner’s Name: The name on the property card should match the seller.
• Look for Encumbrances: See if the property has unpaid loans or legal disputes.
• Review the Mutation History: If the land ownership has changed too many times, investigate why.
• Consult a Lawyer: If anything seems off, ask a legal expert before you buy.

Understanding the cost and timeline will help you plan better:

Fees

In Maharashtra, the cost of obtaining an e-property card ranges from ₹50 to ₹500, depending on which type of service you need (e.g., downloading an e-property card, receiving a certified copy of an e-property card, or making changes).

Processing Time

• Online: Instant or within a few minutes for downloading an e-property card.
• Offline: Applications and updates (such as a change in ownership or mutation) will take between 7 and 30 days to process.

Note: Delays may occur if there are incomplete documents or issues regarding ownership of the property.

Due to the increased digitalisation of property records, it is now much easier to check an e-property card than ever before. To check it, follow these steps:

• Visit Mahabhulekh’s website.
• Click your district, taluka, village or city.
• Enter your survey number, CTS, or owner name
• View or download your e-property card.

Tip: Ensure you verify the name of the owner, area of the property and encumbrances prior to completing any transactions.

Although the process is quite simple, there are a number of common problems that may arise during this process.

• Incorrect survey number: An incorrect survey number or CTS number may create a problem.
• Pending mutation entries: If the ownership has not been updated officially, the previous owner’s name may be displayed on the property card.
• Mismatch in ownership: Differences between the seller’s name and the property card records can indicate legal issues or incomplete documentation.

Advice: These problems need to be cleared before finalising any deal to avoid any trouble in the future. 

If you are buying a property in Mumbai or anywhere in Maharashtra, the first thing that you need to do is check the property card. This will not only save you from legal troubles but will also help you avoid scams and provide a secure and sound buying and selling experience.

Transparency is a key focus for AsmitA India Realty. Every property that we offer is supported by proper documentation and a property card, so that you can invest with complete confidence. If you are looking for a luxurious yet affordable living experience, AsmitA Grand Maison  (AGM) is a great choice.

Located in Mira Road, AGM provides you with the best and most legal options in 1 and 2 BHK homes. Explore today and take a confident step toward owning your dream home!