Why It’s Crucial to Include Free Add-Ons in Your Property Agreement

Buying a home is one of the biggest investments you’ll ever make. With so much riding on that decision, anything that adds value—like free add-ons offered by the builder—can feel like icing on the cake. But here’s the thing: if those extras aren’t noted in your sale agreement, you might not get them at all.

Let’s dive into why it’s essential to put everything in writing—especially the “freebies”—when you buy a home.

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What Are Free Add-Ons in Real Estate?

When developers or builders want to attract homebuyers, they often offer enticing extras like:

• Modular kitchens
• Wardrobes
• Air conditioners
• Extra parking
• Clubhouse membership

These perks can make a significant financial difference. For instance, a modular kitchen alone can cost over a lakh rupees depending on its size and design. So, if a developer promises it for free, it certainly feels like a great deal, right?

Here’s the problem: verbal promises aren’t legally binding.

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Verbal Promises vs. Written Agreements

Imagine you’re buying a brand-new car. The salesperson promises leather seats and a sunroof for free. You agree, make the payment, and drive off. But when the car is delivered, those extras are missing. When you complain, you’re told, “Oh, it was never part of the deal.”

Wouldn’t that feel like a betrayal?

That’s exactly how many homebuyers feel when the promised free add-ons fail to show up—and all because they weren’t included in their home purchase agreement.

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Why Your Agreement Matters

In real estate, the sale or builder-buyer agreement is the ultimate word. This legally binding document outlines:

• What you’re purchasing (the flat/unit)
• When it will be delivered
• How much you’re paying
• Specifics of what’s included

If any item—even a small one like a ceiling fan or water purifier—isn’t mentioned in this contract, don’t expect it to be yours. Courts and real estate regulators can only enforce what’s officially on paper, not what was said during a sales pitch.

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Real-Life Example: A Costly Lesson

Here’s a true story that highlights the risk. A buyer was promised a modular kitchen and wardrobes when booking a flat. But these items were never listed in the agreement. When he took possession of the flat, they were missing.

So, what happened?

Unfortunately, the Real Estate Regulatory Authority (RERA) had to dismiss his complaint. Why? Because legally, the builder isn’t obligated to provide anything that’s not in the signed agreement.

It’s like ordering a thali at a restaurant and then asking for a free dessert you were “told about”—but it was never on the bill. The manager may apologize, but you’re not getting that dessert unless it’s written down.

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Protect Yourself: Always Include Freebies in Writing

To safeguard your interests as a homebuyer, here are a few steps you must take:

• List every free item in the agreement — Whether it’s a chimney, a RO system, or a wardrobe, ask the builder to mention it clearly in the sale agreement.
• Ask for specifications — Don’t just write “modular kitchen.” Mention brand names, materials, or features if possible.
• Take photos or save promotional materials — Keeping a brochure or screenshot of what was promised can help support your claim if builders push back.

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The Importance of Transparency in Real Estate

Buying a home is both an emotional and financial journey. You’re not just buying four walls—you’re investing in your future. That’s why being thorough and detail-oriented is not just practical, it’s necessary.

Sadly, many buyers feel too shy or awkward to discuss legalities when freebies are offered. They think, “It’s okay, I trust the developer.” But here’s a thought: trust, when it comes to property deals, must be backed by paper.

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What Does the Law Say?

Under RERA (Real Estate (Regulation and Development) Act), any promise or commitment made by the promoter must be honored—but only if it is part of the registered agreement. That includes verbal or online marketing communications.

So if your agreement doesn’t contain something that was advertised or promised personally, the law considers it non-existent. It’s not harsh—it’s just how contracts work.

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Tips Before Signing that Agreement

Here are some best practices that every homebuyer should follow:

• Don’t rush the process — Take your time to review every clause in the agreement.
• Consult a property lawyer — A real estate lawyer can quickly tell you if something’s missing or unclear.
• Cross-check with the brochure — Match the freebies offered in advertisements with the agreement. If they’re not there, ask the developer to include them before you sign.

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Final Thoughts: You Deserve What You’re Promised

Let’s be honest—buying a flat already comes with its share of expenses and stress. The last thing anyone wants is to feel shortchanged because of a missing chimney or wardrobe. And worse, having no legal ground to claim it.

So next time a builder says, “Don’t worry, it’ll be included,” your reply should be, “Sure, please include it in the agreement.”

Because at the end of the day, paper speaks louder than promises.

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Have You Purchased a Home Recently?

What was your experience like? Were you offered any freebies—and if so, did you make sure they were written in the agreement? We’d love to hear your story in the comments below.

And if you’re still house hunting, remember one thing above all: What’s not in the agreement doesn’t exist. So, write it down.

Happy house hunting! 🏡

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Quick Recap: What You Should Remember

• Always list promised add-ons in the sale agreement
• Verbal agreements hold no legal weight
• RERA can’t help you if extras aren’t documented
• Consult legal experts before signing

Being extra careful now can save you from a lot of headache later.

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Looking for More Homebuying Tips?

Check out our other posts on:

• How to Read a Builder-Buyer Agreement
• Top 10 Legal Checks Before Buying a Flat
• Understanding RERA: A Homebuyer’s Guide

Stay informed. Stay protected. And make your dream home a reality—with no unwanted surprises.