If you’re buying, selling, or renting property in Pune, your realtor can make or break the deal. A good one saves you time, money, and stress. A bad one? You’ll end up overpaying, missing deadlines, or worse-losing your deposit. So how do you find the best realtor in Pune among hundreds of options?
What Makes a Realtor Truly Good in Pune?
Not all realtors are the same. In Pune, where demand outpaces supply in areas like Kharadi, Hinjewadi, and Wakad, some agents push high-commission listings regardless of fit. The best ones work for you, not their commission check. A top Pune realtor knows local zoning laws, understands builder reputations, and has direct access to off-market deals. They don’t just show you listings-they tell you which ones are overpriced, which builders delay possession, and which societies have hidden maintenance fees. Look for someone who’s been active in Pune for at least five years. Many new agents copy listings from MagicBricks or 99acres. The real pros have relationships with builders, society secretaries, and even bank foreclosure teams. They know which flats in Kharadi were originally booked by corporate clients and are now being resold at a discount.Where to Start Your Search
Start with referrals. Ask colleagues, friends, or neighbors who bought or sold in the last 12 months. Don’t just ask, “Who’s good?” Ask, “Who got you the best price?” or “Who handled the paperwork without delays?” Next, check local Facebook groups like “Pune Real Estate Buyers & Sellers” or “Kharadi Property Network.” Look for agents who respond quickly, answer questions in detail, and don’t just drop a link to a listing. Real pros post videos of properties, explain legal paperwork, and even warn buyers about problematic societies. Avoid agents who promise “guaranteed 20% returns” or say “this is the last unit.” Those are red flags. Pune’s market is competitive but transparent. If an agent sounds like a used-car salesman, walk away.Top 5 Traits of the Best Realtors in Pune
- Local expertise: They know the difference between a “ready-to-move” flat in Baner and one still under construction in Viman Nagar.
- Transparency: They show you the original sale deed, builder approvals, and society bylaws-not just photos.
- Fast communication: You get replies within 2 hours, not 2 days. If they’re always “in a meeting,” they’re probably juggling too many clients.
- Legal awareness: They know RERA registration numbers by heart and can explain what’s covered under the Real Estate (Regulation and Development) Act.
- No pressure: They don’t rush you. The best agents will say, “Wait until next month. Prices drop after Diwali.”
Red Flags to Watch Out For
Pune’s real estate market has seen its share of fraud. Here’s what to avoid:- Agents who ask for upfront fees before showing properties. Legitimate agents get paid only after the deal closes.
- Those who refuse to show the RERA registration number. Every registered agent must display it.
- People who say “the builder is a friend” and skip documentation. That’s how people lose lakhs.
- Agents who only work with one builder. You’re not getting the full market-you’re getting their partner’s inventory.
- Too many listings on multiple platforms with identical photos. That’s often a sign of a broker using stock images.
How to Verify a Realtor’s Credentials
Before you sign anything, check these three things:- Go to Maharashtra RERA website and search by name or registration number. If they’re not listed, they’re not legal.
- Ask for three recent client references. Call them. Ask if the agent was honest about delays, pricing, and hidden costs.
- Check Google reviews. Look for patterns. If 10 people say “they didn’t show the true condition of the flat,” take that seriously.
What to Expect in Fees and Commission
In Pune, standard commission is 1% to 2% of the sale price. For rentals, it’s usually one month’s rent. Anything higher? Ask why. Some agents offer “no commission if you don’t buy” deals. That’s rare but worth considering. It means they’re confident in their listings. Never pay a “registration fee” or “documentation fee” upfront. That’s not standard in Pune. If they insist, walk away. You’re being scammed.
Best Areas to Work With a Local Realtor
Pune’s market varies by neighborhood. A great agent for Hinjewadi might not know the quirks of Kalyani Nagar.- Kharadi: High demand for IT professionals. Look for agents who know which buildings have dedicated shuttle services and good water supply.
- Hinjewadi: Many flats are tied to corporate housing. Agents here should know which builders have tie-ups with TCS, Infosys, or Wipro.
- Wakad: Fast-growing but chaotic. The best agents here track traffic patterns and upcoming metro lines.
- Baner: Premium area. Expect higher prices and stricter society rules. Your agent must know the society’s maintenance history and pending litigation.
- Magarpatta: Gated community with strict rules. Agents here need to understand membership transfer rules and parking policies.
Real Story: How One Buyer Saved ₹8 Lakhs
A client in Kharadi wanted a 2BHK under ₹80 lakhs. An agent showed her five listings-all over ₹85 lakhs. She walked away and found another agent who asked, “What’s your must-have?” She said, “I need a flat with a parking spot and no construction noise.” The second agent dug into off-market listings. Found a unit in a building that had just finished construction. The owner was relocating to the U.S. and wanted a quick sale. The agent negotiated the price down to ₹72 lakhs. The buyer saved ₹8 lakhs and got a parking spot in the front row. That’s the difference a good realtor makes.Final Checklist Before You Hire
Use this before signing anything:- ☐ Agent is registered on Maharashtra RERA
- ☐ You’ve spoken to at least two past clients
- ☐ They’ve shown you original documents, not just photos
- ☐ They don’t push you to decide in 24 hours
- ☐ Commission is clearly written in the agreement
- ☐ You’ve visited the society office and asked about pending dues
How do I know if a realtor is legit in Pune?
Check their RERA registration on the Maharashtra RERA website. Legit agents display their registration number on their website, cards, and ads. If they can’t show it, they’re not registered. Also, ask for two recent client references and call them. Real agents have no problem with this.
Should I hire a realtor for renting in Pune?
Yes, especially if you’re new to the city. A good rental agent knows which societies allow pets, which ones have water shortages in summer, and which landlords are easy to work with. They also handle lease agreements properly, so you don’t get trapped in illegal clauses. Most charge one month’s rent as commission.
Can I buy property in Pune without a realtor?
You can, but it’s risky. Builders often charge higher prices to direct buyers because they know you’re not comparing options. You might miss out on off-market deals, hidden defects, or legal issues. A realtor gives you access to data you won’t find online-like society dues, pending lawsuits, or upcoming infrastructure changes.
What’s the average commission for a realtor in Pune?
For sales, it’s usually 1% to 2% of the property price. For rentals, it’s typically one month’s rent. Anything higher should be questioned. Some agents offer fixed fees or no-commission deals if you don’t close-these are rare but worth considering if you want accountability.
Do Pune realtors help with home loans?
Many have tie-ups with banks and NBFCs. They can refer you to lenders who process Pune property loans faster. But don’t let them push you to a specific bank just because they get a kickback. Always compare rates yourself. A good agent will give you options, not pressure.