Govt Bans Approval Fees for Resale or Transfer of Registered Flats, Land

The government today issued a directive prohibiting real estate developers from charging any kind of approval or transfer fee during the resale or transfer of land or flats that have already been sold or handed over through registered deeds. According to an official press release issued by the Ministry of Housing and Public Works, the decision aims to prevent harassment and undue financial burden on property buyers and sellers.

"No real estate developer shall demand or collect any money from the buyer or seller in the name of sale approval, transfer approval, mutation, or under any other pretext during the subsequent resale or transfer of such land or flats," the release said, adding that such practices are completely illegal. The government warned that any individual or organisation found violating this order will face legal action under the Real Estate Development and Management Act, 2010, the Real Estate Development and Management Rules, 2011 and other applicable laws. The directive, signed by Deputy Secretary of the Ministry of Housing and Public Works Dr. Md. Nurul Amin, takes effect immediately in the public interest. Md. Alamgir Hossain, public relations officer (PRO) of the ministry, sent the press release confirming the issuance of the order.