The Goa Real Estate Regulatory Authority (Goa RERA) has issued stringent new guidelines to curb misleading advertisements in the state’s housing and commercial property market.

From banning vague disclaimers like “T&C apply” and “representational images” to mandating prominent display of RERA registration numbers, the circular aims to ensure that all project promotions are transparent, factual, and aligned with approved plans.

Goa RERA has categorically directed that builders and real estate agents cannot add disclaimer clauses in their promotional materials. Phrases such as “images are for representational purposes only” or “T&C apply” will be treated as violations. The authority stated that advertisements must reflect accurate details of the project as per the approved plans and registration certificates.

The notification also addressed the issue of vague or exaggerated promises made by developers in advertisements. A mere mention of “11+ amenities” without detailing them will be considered prima facie misleading. Instead, builders must clearly specify all facilities promised in the brochure and agreement, ensuring that buyers are not misled by ambiguous claims.

Another key directive is the mandatory inclusion of the Goa RERA registration number in every real estate advertisement. This number, as per the circular, must be displayed prominently in the top-right corner of the advertisement. The rule applies to both print and digital platforms, including real estate portals promoting projects and plots.

Goa RERA also raised concerns over the way developers often market projects by emphasizing proximity to schools, hospitals, airports, or transport hubs, sometimes coupled with claims of travel time. The circular clarified that the exact project location as per the approved plan must be mentioned and travel time cannot be advertised, as it varies due to traffic conditions.

These new rules are expected to increase transparency in Goa’s real estate sector. Developers will need to adhere to stricter standards in their marketing campaigns, while homebuyers will benefit from clearer, fact-based information before making property decisions.