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The 4 Hidden Charges Builders Slip into Apartment Purchase Agreements

Published by PropProof Research Team • 5 min read

When buying a new apartment, the base square-foot price quoted by sales representatives is rarely what you end up paying. Once you receive the final agreement paperwork, a series of additional line items and secondary costs usually emerge in the fine print.

Recognizing these line items early can protect your capital before you commit:

1. Infrastructure and Utility Deposits

Agreements frequently include separate, non-negotiable fees for electricity grid connections, water supply infrastructure, and standby generator installations that are omitted during initial price discussions.

2. The 10% Forfeiture Clause

A restrictive clause often dictates that if your home loan faces processing delays or if you need to cancel your booking due to personal circumstances, the developer reserves the right to forfeit up to 10% of the agreement value plus taxes.

3. Inflated Maintenance Advance Payments

Developers regularly require 1 to 2 years of maintenance fees paid upfront at possession handover, calculated on gross super built-up area rather than functional carpet area.

4. Clubhouse and Amenity Capital Fees

Access or membership fees for sports facilities and clubhouses are frequently billed separately as one-time infrastructure charges just before handover.

Key Takeaway:

Always request an itemized cost sheet covering every extra charge before transferring your booking token.

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