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Why NRIs Are Rushing to Buy Farmhouse Plots Near PuneThe Rise of Plot Scams in Pune: How They Operate & How Buyers Can Stay Safe
Pune’s real estate landscape has grown rapidly over the past decade. Expanding IT hubs, growing infrastructure, and rising demand for second homes have made the city a magnet for investors. But alongside this growth, Pune has also witnessed an alarming increase in land-related fraud. These scams have become sophisticated, well-planned, and often involve networks of agents, document forgers, and impersonators.
Areas such as Mulshi, Wagholi, Baner, Tathawade, and Mohammadwadi have seen some of the biggest fraud cases in recent years. Understanding how these scams work is essential for anyone planning to invest in land around Pune.
- Forged Documents & Impersonation Scams
One of the most common forms of land fraud in Pune involves forged ownership records. Fraudsters prepare fake 7/12 extracts, falsified sale deeds, or bogus power of attorney papers. In many cases, they impersonate real landowners at registration offices using forged identity documents.
How This Scam Works
Scammers identify valuable land belonging to someone who lives outside Pune or abroad.
They recreate the owner’s documents using high-quality forgeries.
They use fake Aadhaar/PAN cards to pose as the owner.
The land is sold to an unsuspecting buyer at a seemingly legitimate rate.
These scams often go unnoticed until the real owner or vigilant neighbors discover that a fraudulent sale has taken place.
- Illegal Sale of Government or Restricted Land
Many plots in Pune are legally restricted — including government land, grazing land (gairan), forest-affected land, and land reserved for public projects. Fraudsters take advantage of complex land records and outdated documents to present such land as privately owned.
Typical Pattern
Scammers obtain older records where ownership details are unclear.
They manipulate or recreate entries to show private ownership.
They then sell the land cheaply, claiming fast appreciation.
Buyers later discover that the land cannot be transferred, developed, or registered, resulting in total financial loss.
- Misleading “Social Media Offers” for Farmhouse Plots
The rise of social media advertising has made it easy for fraudsters to attract buyers with glossy reels and unrealistically low prices. This trend is especially common in scenic areas like Mulshi and Velhe.
Typical Tactics
Extremely low per-guntha pricing to create urgency.
Attractive photos and drone shots of entirely different plots.
Charging booking amounts or “site visit fees” in advance.
Showing land that is either disputed, inaccessible, or not legally saleable.
Many buyers fall into the trap because of fear of missing out and attractive payment plans.
- Fraudulent “Pre-Launch” Plotting Projects
Several scamsters present large plotting layouts as “pre-launch opportunities” with promises of steep returns. These projects often lack basic approvals such as NA conversion, layout sanction, and RERA registration.
Red Flags
Heavy discounts for early bookings.
No RERA number displayed or ambiguity about approvals.
Vague timelines and incomplete paperwork.
Pressure to pay immediately to avail “pre-launch pricing.”
Such projects frequently stall, never begin, or get tangled in legal disputes.
- Multi-Sale of the Same Plot
This is a classic and still widespread scam in Pune. Fraudsters show the same plot to multiple buyers, take partial payments from all of them, and then disappear.
How This Scam Plays Out
A genuine-looking plot is shown.
Documents appear legit, often forged.
Booking amounts or part payments are collected from several buyers.
The scammer vanishes or the plot is later found to be disputed.
Victims often discover each other only when they try to register the property.
- Fraud Around Agricultural & NA Conversion Claims
Buyers looking for second homes or investment in green zones often get misled by promises of immediate NA (non-agriculture) conversion.
The Trap
Agricultural land is sold with the claim that NA conversion is “already applied for.”
Buyers are told they can start construction immediately.
Months or years later, buyers realise that NA conversion was never processed.
The land remains agricultural and cannot be used for the promised purpose.
This scam exploits the lack of understanding of Maharashtra land laws.
Why Pune Is Especially Vulnerable to Plot Scams
Several factors contribute to Pune’s high rate of land fraud:
High demand from IT professionals, NRIs, and investors.
Large areas of fragmented ownership make verification harder.
Complex revenue records and outdated documents.
Rapid expansion of city outskirts, where monitoring is weak.
Dependence on brokers, many of whom operate without regulation.
These conditions create the perfect environment for scammers to operate.
How Buyers Can Protect Themselves
Buying land requires more checks than buying a flat. Here are the essential safeguards every buyer in Pune should follow:
- Do a 30–35 Year Title Search
- Always Verify the Latest 7/12 Extract
The extract must match:
The seller’s name
Survey number
Land area
Type of land
Existing liabilities or reservations
Obtain it from the official revenue office or government portal.
- Check NA Status, Zoning, and Approvals
For plotting layouts:
Verify NA order
Layout sanction
RERA registration
Road access and DP reservations
A legally clean plot will always have complete documentation.
- Physically Inspect the Land
Visit the land with:
A local surveyor
A lawyer (if possible)
Boundary measurement tools
Confirm that the land shown matches the documents.
- Be Wary of Prices That Are Too Low
If the price seems too low for the location, it is likely that there is a problem. This is because scammers will often use low prices to lure people into buying plots that are priced well below market rate.
- Record All Payments
Make all payments through:
Cheques
Bank transfers
RTGS/NEFT
Do not pay in cash.
- Report All Suspicious Transactions Immediately
If you feel that something is not right:
Cancel the transaction
Consult a lawyer
Report the incident to the authorities
This will help you avoid losing more money.
Conclusion
The Pune real estate market is still a rapidly growing market, but buyers need to be very cautious. The plot scam today is a very complex and layered scam that involves fake documents and unethical networks. The only way to stay safe is to be aware and have all transactions checked by a lawyer.
Maximizing ROI: Why Plots Are a Long Term Wealth Creation Strategy
Buying land has always been one of the most popular investment choices, since people have always sought wealth generation. Buying plots of land is arguably one of the most effective techniques for achieving the highest ROI on investment. Here is why buying plots will likely increase your chances of securing a bright financial future.
Appreciation Over Time
Land is not a non-renewable resource. Whether the plot is in a developing area or near an established city,there is always a chance of appreciation. Unlike buildings that may depreciate over time due to wear and tear, land remains a durable and appreciating asset.
Lower Initial Investment
Compared to ready-built property, the cost of buying a plot is relatively low. Therefore, with relatively low initial investment, first-time investors or those seeking portfolio diversion can invest in prime locations that offer high growth potential.
Flexibility in Development
The primary advantage of a plot is that it leaves you with your choice to develop it according to your wish. You can wait for years without using the plot while its price increases or wait until the correct time to transform it into a home, business premises, or other income-generating activities and reap your investment to match your money objectives.
Prime Locations Are Key
An investment made in a plot near infrastructural development like IT hubs, highways, or upcoming commercial zones adds significant returns to the portfolio. Locality, like Hinjewadi Phase 3, will witness high demand from employment avenues and the urban setting itself, and the investment could well be chanced upon for many.
Potential for Passive Income
Once you've bought a piece of land, you can let it out to people for different purposes, say parking, storage, or even farmland, based on the land's location. This provides additional income while the asset appreciates in value.
Future-Ready Investment
The plots can be easily designed for future requirements. Be it a family home, a tourist destination, or a higher price sale, land proves to be a diverse asset. With time, cities expand, and new projects are set in place, while the price of plots at strategic areas only increases.
Final Thoughts
Investing in plots is a very good way to create wealth in the long run. It has high appreciation potential, and the risks involved are quite lower compared to other investment options. There is high scope for growth, and with the right location plus clear legal property status, you get an asset that pays you back for thousands of years.
If you’re looking to invest in plots that promise both value and growth, consider exploring options near rapidly developing areas and the expertise of Genuine Plots in Pune . Your future self will thank you for it!
Why Mulshi is the Perfect Investment Opportunity for Your Next Home
Mulshi is one of the most attractive destinations for investment. Close to Pune, nestled among the breathtaking Sahyadri ranges, close to natural beauty, peaceful surroundings, and easy connectivity, it's a perfect weekend getaway destination as well as a great choice for the second home or even a long-term investment, making it a very attractive option.
Natural Beauty and Peaceful Environment
The charm of Mulshi lies in its peaceful atmosphere and the beauty of its scenic landscape. Away from the noise of the city, it offers a quiet environment ideal for those looking to escape the noise. It is an excellent spot for weekend retreats or building a second home where one can recharge and enjoy the calm.
Proximity to Pune and Excellent Connectivity
Mulshi enjoys easy access to the city via the Mumbai-Pune Expressway. This makes it a convenient option for professionals who want to live in a peaceful area while still being close enough to the city for work and essential services.

Growing Infrastructure and Development
Mulshi is not only known for its natural beauty but also for its growth. Many new gated communities and commercial projects are being built here, including gated communities, luxury villas, and affordable housing options. The area has seen considerable attention from the developers for focusing on eco-friendly practices, hence it's a wise decision for any sustainable living opportunity. With further development in infrastructure, Mulshi will become a destination that people might be interested to own homes there.
High Investment Potential
With natural beauty, infrastructural development, and an increased demand for weekend and second homes by city dwellers, Mulshi is bound to see significant capital growth and strong rental returns. Holding much promise for the future, this location will certainly assure a sizeable return over the long term.
Mulshi offers a peaceful yet connected lifestyle, surrounded by nature, and it’s becoming one of the best investment opportunities near Pune. If you’re looking for a place to build a second home or invest in a growing area, Mulshi is worth considering.
Buying land in Maharashtra is an exciting investment, but it’s important to know what to look for. Here is a simple guide that will help you find the right plot, avoid legal issues, and make sure you’re investing in land that meets your needs.
Essential Amenities and Factors to Check
Connectivity
Good connectivity is important. Make sure the land has easy access to major roads, highways, and public transportation. Check if you can quickly reach nearby towns and cities, as well as essential services like schools, hospitals, and markets.
Utilities
For proper and smooth living or for business establishment, land should provide access to the most basic utilities:
Electricity: It should have an adequate supply of power.
Water Supply: The water supply should be clean, regular, and constant.
Drainage: It should have a sufficient drainage system so that it is not flooded or water-logged during the rainy season.
Legal Documents
Verification of legal documents is one of the very important steps while buying a piece of land. Here are the documents you should verify:
Encumbrance Certificate: It shall show that the land is free of loans, mortgages, and other financial or legal issues. This ensures that the land is safe to buy.
Title Deed: This would prove who the owner of the land. You have to check this for confirmation whether the current owner has the right to sell the land or not.A Sale Deed is a legally accepted transfer of land from the seller to you,
7/12 Extract This is a particular document in Maharashtra showing details about the land like ownership history and any agricultural use. It makes it important to verify the history and purpose of the land.
Security
Security is highly important if you are looking to buy land in an urban area. Some features include:
CCTV Surveillance: Plot surveillance through cameras ensures one has security.
Security Personnel: Guards or security staff increase safety for huge or commercial areas.

Recreational Amenities
Generally, some lands have extra benefits that usually come free. Examples of such benefits include recreational amenities in residential areas. Parks, playgrounds, or open areas close by make the location more enjoyable. When the proximity to the land is near natural areas such as lakes or forests, it adds to the attractiveness of the area.
Land Type
Land can either be agricultural, residential, or commercial, and every type of land will have its rules. Confirm that the land you are going to buy is fit for your purpose. For example, residential land can only allow home building, not agricultural land.
Building Permits Plan
If you are going to construct on that parcel, check if the land is zoned for development. Plans of building construction must be approved by the local government, and you must ensure that there is no zoning restriction or limit on such a plot of land.
Environmental Factors
Last but not least, consider other environmental factors that may affect the land:
Topography: It should be stable ground, meaning that it should not be on a steep slope.
Soil Quality: Good soil is important if you plan to build a house or grow plants.
Flood Risks: Check if the area has a history of flooding, especially during monsoons.
Final Thoughts
Buying a piece of land in Maharashtra can be an excellent investment if one keeps the following in view as the most important one. This land should be well connected with available utilities, and it should be legally safe for purchase. Thus, these steps would ensure a safe investment in land.
Investing in land can be a smart choice, but it’s important to know the pros and cons before you decide. Let’s take a closer look at the main advantages and disadvantages of buying land so you can make the best choice for your investment goals.
Advantages of Investing in Land
- Flexibility: Land can be used in multiple ways, whether it's building a house, setting up a business, or even leaving it as open space for future projects. This flexibility is helpful because it gives you various options.
- Portfolio Diversification: Adding land to your investments will make your portfolio stronger.Having a mix of different investments helps spread risk, which can protect your money when the market changes.
- No Depreciation: Unlike buildings that may lose value over time, land generally keeps its worth or even increases. Since it doesn’t “wear out,” land can be a more stable investment.
- Tax Benefits: In some areas, landowners can get tax advantages. This can help you save money and make your investment more profitable.
- High Demand: As populations grow, there’s a steady need for land, especially for homes and businesses. This demand can make land a good investment because its value might go up over time.


Disadvantages of Investing in Land
- No Immediate Income: Land alone doesn’t bring in monthly income like rental properties. You only make money when you sell it or if you develop it for some purpose.
- Development Challenges: Preparing land for building can be complicated. You might need special permissions and must follow certain rules, which can add time and cost.
- Liquidity Issues: Selling land quickly can sometimes be hard, especially if it’s in a less popular area. This means you may need to wait longer to turn your land into cash.
Is It Worth Investing in Land?
For sure, land is indeed a good investment if you want long-term benefits. It's so appealing that many investors don't care about the low returns because of its flexibility and low maintenance, not to mention constant demand. Although it doesn't generate income like other investments, it can give quite a high return upon being sold or even developed. Careful planning makes it a valuable part of one's financial portfolio.
Investing in land has always been a popular way to grow wealth. With the value of land generally rising over time, many people find it a reliable investment. But as the demand for land grows, buying it is becoming more complex. Before jumping into the market, it’s important to understand both the benefits and the challenges that come with purchasing a plot.
Why Consider Investing in Residential Land?
As an investment, land is a good bet. Compared to mutual funds or stocks, it is relatively easy to invest in land, and there is relatively less risk involved. However, for a prudent decision, it is significant to know the challenges involved in buying land.

Challenges in Buying Plots or Residential Land
Buying a plot isn’t just about picking a piece of land and paying for it. There are several challenges to consider. Here are some of the main ones:
Understanding the Type of Land
You are supposed to know whether the land is classified either for residential or agricultural use before buying it. Agricultural land tends to be less expensive, but there will be constraints on such a piece of land. The land could not be used for constructing houses as in the case of residential lands.
Legal Checks and Documentation
Another major issue involves the verification of whether it is a legally clear property or not. While a Title Deed is proof that the seller has a right to the land, an Encumbrance Certificate is equally important to ensure that no legal dues exist in the property. And if there are disputes or unclear ownership over the land, then completely avoid it, as it will end up in costly legal tangles.
Location and Purpose
Think of the reasons you are buying the land. For a house of your family, it is wise to seek sites close to schools, offices, and hospitals. For business, you might need to buy land that is relatively central. Ask yourself what you want the land before you go ahead to purchase a location.
Invest in a plot; you get large returns out of it. However, it has not been an easy process to invest in a good plot without doing research and inspection. Genuine Plots will assist you in any purchase done with experts for an easy and safe buy, ensuring all the paperwork is in place.