10 Questions to Ask Before You Buy a Plot in Pakistan
Buying a plot in Pakistan is one of the biggest financial decisions most families ever make — and it is the decision where the smallest oversight costs the most money. After helping hundreds of buyers across the country, here is the exact checklist we walk every client through before they sign anything.
1. Is the society approved by the relevant authority?
An approval from LDA, RDA, CDA, or the cantonment board is non-negotiable. Ask for the approval letter and verify it on the authority’s public list — not just on the marketing brochure.
2. Is the specific phase balloted?
Approval of the society is not the same as approval of your phase. Make sure your phase has been balloted, has a published map, and has an issued plot number — not a "future allotment".
3. Who is the current registered owner?
Always ask for the file or allotment letter in the current seller’s name. Chains of "open files" with three intermediate sellers are a classic place for disputes to appear later.
4. Are dues, surcharges, and development charges clear?
Outstanding development charges and possession fees travel with the plot, not with the previous owner. Get a written, dated dues clearance from the society office.
5. Is there an NOC for construction in this phase?
If your goal is to build, confirm the phase has a current construction NOC. Some societies open transfers years before construction NOCs are issued.
6. What is the actual on-ground status?
Visit the plot. Look for: utilities visible at the curb, paved/gravelled roads, neighbouring construction activity, and street lighting. A plot is worth what you can see, not what is promised.
7. Are there any encroachments or boundary issues?
Compare the physical corners with the society map. We always recommend a fresh demarcation by the society’s engineering office before transfer.
8. What is the realistic resale liquidity?
Ask the agent for 3 recent verified resale rates in the same block — with file numbers, not just claims. A plot you cannot exit in under 90 days at a fair price is illiquid.
9. What is the transfer cost and who pays?
Transfer fees, stamp duty, CVT (where applicable), agent commission — get every number on paper before negotiating the headline price. Surprises here erase 1–3% of the deal value.
10. Is the payment route secure?
Never pay cash for property in Pakistan in 2026. Use a cross-cheque, pay order, or bank transfer in the seller’s registered name, and demand a stamped, dated receipt for every instalment.
The bonus question we always ask
Would you buy this plot if you had to live there for 10 years and not sell? If the answer is no, the price is not low enough — keep looking. There are no shortages of properties in Pakistan, only shortages of patient buyers.
If you would like us to run this exact checklist on a specific plot you are considering, send us the file details on our contact page and a Warasat advisor will respond within one business day.
