Book excerpt: About the Book Real estate touches everyone at some point of time in their lives and is much more than buying, selling or leasing immoveable property. It is a whole economy in itself and is often called one of the key drivers of the economy. This book contains a collection of real-life situations faced by common people while undertaking real estate transactions. It provides historical perspective for the current legislations and their evolution from the 19th century British India through more than seventy four years of independent India to the 21st century. It captures modern day practices, malpractices and reforms in the real estate sector. The book endeavours to bring out the practical nuances of dealing in real estate through numerous judicial pronouncements and contractual scenarios, which will enable everyone to understand the legal aspects and make informed choices while undertaking real estate transactions. Key Features - A curated commentary on real estate laws in India that is easy to read, comprehend and apply by everyone including lawyers, students, businessmen, investors, entities, organisations and the common people. - Holistic coverage of laws relating to real estate including their origin, evolution, and impact on modern-day governance structure. - Compilation of case laws spanning over a century showcasing the active role played by the judiciary in interpreting the law. - Highlights the complexities of maintaining records and administrative angle which led to reforms and easy access for the general public. - Underlines the importance of financial funding and sources to secure credit for real estate matters. - Special focus on environmental damage due to expanding real estate requirements, its implications and legal recourse. - Dedicated chapter on common malpractices and fraudulent activities. - Practical instances on how to gear up to handle real estate transactions and avoid common pitfalls.