MahaRERA Adopts Hybrid Hearing Model: Physical and Virtual Options for Homebuyers and Developers

In a landmark step towards improving transparency and accessibility, the Maharashtra Real Estate Regulatory Authority (MahaRERA) has announced that homebuyers and developers can now choose between physical and virtual hearings. This new hybrid model of dispute resolution, effective from 2025, aims to make the entire process of addressing complaints faster, more flexible, and more convenient for stakeholders.

This development marks a significant evolution in how real estate disputes in Maharashtra will be managed, especially considering the growing number of cases filed under RERA.

MahaRERA has been at the forefront of safeguarding homebuyer rights while ensuring fair practices by developers. However, one of the challenges faced by many complainants was the inconvenience of attending hearings physically, especially for buyers residing outside Maharashtra or abroad.

By introducing a hybrid option, MahaRERA ensures: Flexibility , Parties can choose to attend hearings online or offline. Accessibility , Homebuyers from across India (or NRIs) can now participate virtually. Time, saving , Virtual hearings reduce travel and waiting time. Transparency , Both modes will follow the same rules and procedures.

Under the new model, parties involved in real estate disputes can select their preferred mode of hearing, either physical or virtual.

Here’s a step, by, step guide: Filing a Complaint Homebuyers or developers can file complaints online through the MahaRERA portal. Choosing the Mode of Hearing While filing, complainants can indicate their preference for either a physical appearance at MahaRERA offices or a virtual hearing via video conferencing. Scheduling MahaRERA will schedule hearings accordingly, ensuring fair opportunity for both parties. Virtual Hearings Conducted using secure digital platforms with proper authentication of participants. Final Order Regardless of the hearing mode, orders will carry the same legal weight.

The hybrid hearing model comes as a big relief for homebuyers, especially those who: Stay outside Maharashtra and previously had to travel long distances. Are NRIs who invested in Maharashtra’s real estate projects. Face time and cost constraints in attending multiple hearings.

This initiative strengthens RERA’s core promise, providing quick, fair, and affordable redressal to property buyers.

For developers, the new model ensures: Time efficiency , They can participate in hearings without always being physically present. Faster dispute resolution , Cases move forward without unnecessary adjournments. Improved credibility , A more transparent system boosts developer, buyer trust.

With rising cases of project delays, possession issues, and builder, buyer conflicts, the hybrid model is expected to: Reduce case backlog by making hearings more streamlined. Encourage more homebuyers to file complaints since virtual participation is now possible. Enhance efficiency of MahaRERA in handling disputes.

In short, it aligns with the digital, first approach of Indian governance while ensuring justice delivery remains inclusive.

The hybrid model reflects a broader transformation in India’s real estate regulation landscape: Digitization of regulatory processes will become the norm. Ease of participation will empower homebuyers. Faster resolutions will enhance confidence in RERA. Developers will adapt to a more transparent, buyer, centric approach.

The introduction of a hybrid hearing model by MahaRERA is a milestone in real estate regulation. By allowing both physical and virtual hearings, the authority has ensured that justice is not just accessible but also convenient for all stakeholders.

For homebuyers, it removes barriers of distance and cost. For developers, it speeds up dispute resolution. And for Maharashtra’s real estate market, it builds greater trust, efficiency, and transparency.

As of 2025, MahaRERA’s hybrid model sets a benchmark for other states to follow, ensuring that the real estate sector in India continues its journey towards fairness, accountability, and digital transformation.