Quick answer: For most buyers, a good RERA-registered broker is worth it: more choice across builders and resale, price negotiation, and help with site visits, papers and the loan. In new projects the builder usually pays the broker, so it costs you nothing extra. Going direct suits you only if you already know the project. In Telangana every agent must register with TG RERA (₹10,000 for an individual, valid 5 years).
By Vijay Arjun V (B.Pharm, PGDM), authorised LIC HFL DSA since 2002 and DME (Direct Marketing Executive) appointed by LIC HFL. Facts checked on 29 October 2026.
Broker or direct from the builder: quick comparison
| Through a RERA-registered broker | Direct from the builder | |
|---|---|---|
| Choice | Many projects and resale flats | One builder’s projects |
| Price | Knows what others paid; negotiates for you | Builder’s price and offers |
| Resale flats and houses | Yes | No |
| Site visits and shortlisting | Arranged and compared for you | You do it yourself |
| Papers and loan | Helps check RERA and approvals, coordinates the loan | Builder’s team, focused on its own project |
| Commission | New projects: usually paid by the builder. Resale: agreed with you in writing | None |
8 advantages of buying through a good broker
- Wider choice: projects from several builders, plus resale flats and independent houses a builder can’t offer.
- Local price knowledge: what similar flats in the same area actually sold for.
- Negotiation: a broker who brings many buyers to a builder can often get a better price, payment plan or floor choice.
- Less running around: shortlisting, site visits and comparisons on your budget.
- First checks on papers: RERA registration, approvals and obvious title issues before you pay an advance; see how to check a project on Telangana RERA.
- Loan coordination: working with a DSA so your eligibility is known before you book.
- Registration help: sale agreement, stamp duty, slot booking and the sub-registrar visit.
- After the sale: help with possession, renting out or reselling later.
When buying direct makes sense
- You already know the exact project and flat you want.
- The builder offers a launch price or scheme only for direct bookings; ask whether a broker can get the same.
- The only brokers you have met push the project that pays them the most, or are not registered with RERA.
How to choose a broker
- TG RERA registration number: check it on the Telangana RERA portal.
- Commission in writing before site visits, especially for resale.
- Registered projects only: a broker selling pre-launch flats in an unregistered project is breaking the law and putting your money at risk.
- No cash: payments to the builder or seller by bank transfer, with receipts.
- References from buyers they have helped in your area.
How to become a real estate agent in Telangana
Under the RERA Act, anyone who negotiates or acts for a buyer or seller in a RERA-registered project, for a commission, is a real estate agent and must register first.
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Registration with TG RERA (Section 9) | Apply online on the Telangana RERA portal before you facilitate any sale |
| Fee | ₹10,000 for an individual; ₹50,000 for a firm or company |
| Validity and renewal | 5 years; renewal fee ₹5,000 (individual) or ₹25,000 (others) |
| Documents | PAN, Aadhaar or passport, address proof, photograph, bank details; firms also need their registration certificate or partnership deed |
| Duties (Section 10) | Deal only in registered projects, keep books of account, make no false statements, and give buyers the information and documents they are entitled to |
| Penalty (Section 62) | Up to ₹10,000 a day, up to 5% of the cost of the property involved |
TG RERA enforces this. It fined a person who acted as an agent without registration, together with his two companies, ₹3.69 lakh (LiveLaw, June 2025).
Beyond registration, you will need GST registration once your commission income crosses the GST threshold, a working knowledge of title documents, layout and building approvals and home loans, and a network of builders and owners.
Agents and channel partners: work with us on loans
We handle your buyers’ LIC HFL home loans from eligibility check to disbursement, so your deals close faster. See partner with us.
Frequently asked questions
Do I pay brokerage when I buy a new flat through a broker?
Usually not: in new projects the builder pays its channel partners. Confirm in writing before you start.
Is brokerage paid on resale flats?
Yes, as agreed between you and the broker. Agree the amount in writing before site visits.
Can a broker get me a home loan?
A broker can introduce you to a lender or DSA, but only the lender sanctions the loan. Check your eligibility before you book: free eligibility check.
Does a broker need RERA registration to sell resale flats?
RERA registration is required to act in RERA-registered projects. Many resale flats sit in older projects outside RERA, but a registered broker is still the safer choice.
More: buying a flat in Hyderabad, step by step · LIC HFL home loans in Hyderabad.
Sources: Real Estate (Regulation and Development) Act, 2016, Sections 9, 10 and 62; Telangana Real Estate (Regulation and Development) Rules, 2017, agent fees as published by BankBazaar and TaxClue; Housing.com, “RERA Telangana” (agent documents); LiveLaw, 8 June 2025 (TG RERA penalty on an unregistered agent).
Hyderabad Home Loans is run by Elite Financial Services, an authorised Direct Selling Agent (DSA) of LIC Housing Finance Ltd. We are not LIC HFL. Loans are sanctioned solely at LIC HFL’s discretion; rates and fees may change.
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