Selling a Flat in an Old Mumbai Building: What You Need to Know
A Reddit user shares the challenges of selling a 2BHK in a 30-year-old building in Andheri, Mumbai, despite using various platforms and channels.
MumbaiReal EstateOld BuildingsProperty SaleRedevelopmentReal Estate MumbaiJun 03, 2025
Netizens have voiced concern about the challenges of selling flats in old buildings, despite the properties having clear titles. The Reddit user’s post reads, “We have been trying to sell our 2BHK flat in an old (~30-year-old) building in Andheri East, and it’s been an absolute nightmare. We have paid and registered on almost every major platform you can think of. All of them promised dedicated support, sales assistance, etc. We even approached a local broker, thinking a real person on the ground might help, but no luck.”
The user further expressed frustration, stating, “We’re not even being unrealistic. We’re willing to sell well below the market rate just to get it off our hands. But it’s like the flat doesn’t even exist. What are we doing wrong? Is this normal in Mumbai right now?” The post reflects the growing concern among homeowners who are finding it increasingly difficult to sell properties in older buildings.
Another Reddit user echoed similar sentiments, commenting that their family is facing the same issue. “We have a flat in a 35-year-old building. Ten years ago, we were getting a very good amount for it, but we did not sell in hopes of redevelopment. Now, we are ready to let it go for half that amount, but we are not getting any buyers,” the Redditor said.
According to real estate consultants, selling apartments in old buildings isn’t always difficult; it depends on several factors, such as a clear legal title, proper approvals, and the location’s potential. Take the example of Shiv Sagar Society, an old building on Worli Sea Face, which struck a rare and lucrative deal when Uday Kotak, founder of Kotak Mahindra Bank, purchased the entire building for over ₹400 crore. The property is located right next to land already owned by Kotak, making it a strategic acquisition. However, local brokers point out that not all homeowners are as fortunate.
“There have been instances where old buildings fetched high per sq ft rates, but that’s largely due to prime location,” said Ritesh Mehta, senior director and head (North and West), Residential Services and Developer Initiatives at JLL India. “In other areas, what matters most is the legal clarity of the building. If the title is clean and approvals are in place, a buyer may still show interest, often with redevelopment potential in mind. But if the title itself is unclear, selling becomes extremely difficult. That said, we never say it’s impossible.”
Meanwhile, industry estimates suggest that over 25,000 old buildings in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR) are currently eligible for redevelopment. This highlights the potential for homeowners to capitalize on redevelopment opportunities, provided they navigate the legal and regulatory landscape effectively.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is it difficult to sell flats in old buildings in Mumbai?
Selling flats in old buildings can be challenging due to factors such as unclear legal titles, lack of proper approvals, and the preference for newer properties with modern amenities.
What are the key factors that affect the sale of old flats in Mumbai?
The key factors include the location, legal clarity of the building, proper approvals, and the potential for redevelopment.
Can old buildings be redeveloped in Mumbai?
Yes, over 25,000 old buildings in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR) are eligible for redevelopment, providing opportunities for homeowners to capitalize on this potential.
What should homeowners do to increase the chances of selling their old flat?
Homeowners should ensure the legal title is clear, obtain all necessary approvals, and consider marketing the property with redevelopment potential in mind.
Are there any success stories of selling old flats in Mumbai?
Yes, there are instances where old buildings in prime locations, such as Shiv Sagar Society on Worli Sea Face, have fetched high per sq ft rates due to their strategic value and redevelopment potential.
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