MHADA First-Come, First-Served Scheme: Affordable Housing Opportunity in Mumbai

For thousands of aspiring homebuyers in Mumbai, owning a house remains a long-term dream. High property prices, limited supply, and rising demand often make this goal difficult to achieve. In this situation, schemes launched by the Maharashtra Housing and Area Development Authority (MHADA) bring much-needed relief. Recently, MHADA announced the sale of 118 affordable flats in Mumbai under a first-come, first-served (FCFS) scheme. This initiative offers eligible citizens a direct opportunity to purchase homes without waiting for a lottery draw.

The first-come, first-served scheme is a housing allocation method where flats are allotted to applicants in the order in which they complete the application and payment process. Unlike traditional MHADA lotteries, this scheme does not involve random selection. Instead, buyers who act quickly and meet all requirements can secure a flat immediately. The current FCFS scheme includes homes that were previously offered under lottery systems but remained unsold.

MHADA officially announced on February 16, 2026, that applications for 118 flats would open from February 17, 2026. The registration process begins at 11:00 am through MHADA’s official website, https://bookmyhome.mhada.gov.in.

Earlier, MHADA had planned to start registrations on February 5, but technical issues delayed the process. After resolving these problems, the authority confirmed the new date to ensure smooth online applications.

Initially, MHADA planned to offer 120 apartments under this scheme. However, the final number has been revised to 118 units. These homes cater to different income groups and budgets.

According to available information, the least expensive flat is priced at around ₹38 lakh, making it suitable for middle-income buyers. On the other hand, the most expensive unit is located in Tardeo, South Mumbai, and costs more than ₹8 crore. This wide price range ensures that buyers from different financial backgrounds can participate.

One of the major highlights of this MHADA sale is the wide range of locations included. The 118 flats are spread across several prominent areas of Mumbai, including: Kandivali, Charkop, Shimpoli, Antop Hill, Wadala, Powai, Malad, Mankhurd, Ghatkopar, Vikhroli, Byculla, Tardeo, Lower Parel, Sion, Juhu, and Andheri.

This geographical diversity gives buyers multiple options based on their workplace, lifestyle preferences, and budget. It also helps in reducing pressure on a single locality.

The online application process is designed to be transparent and user-friendly. Interested applicants must first register on the MHADA portal using valid personal details. After registration, they can browse available flats and select their preferred unit.

MHADA has stated that the process of submitting applications, paying security deposits, and selecting flats will begin from March 4, 2026. Once a flat is selected, the applicant must pay 10 percent of the flat’s sale price within 48 hours. This step confirms the booking and prevents unnecessary blocking of units.

To ensure fair distribution, MHADA has set specific eligibility conditions. The applicant must be at least 18 years old on the date of application and must be an Indian citizen. A valid Maharashtra Domicile Certificate is mandatory. This certificate should be issued after January 2018 and must include a barcode.

Applicants must also provide identification documents such as Aadhaar and PAN cards. For married applicants, the spouse’s documents are required. Divorced applicants must submit certified court judgments. These rules help maintain transparency and avoid legal disputes later.

Many buyers depend on home loans to finance their purchase. MHADA allows applicants to use bank loans under this scheme. However, buyers must upload a pre-sanctioned loan letter from their bank while applying. After verification, MHADA issues a No Objection Certificate in the bank’s name through the applicant’s login.

Once the full payment and stamp duty are completed, MHADA provides the allotment and possession letters. This structured process protects both buyers and financial institutions.

The flats included in this FCFS scheme were earlier part of MHADA lotteries. However, they remained unsold for various reasons. Some buyers failed to complete payments, while others withdrew due to financial constraints. In certain cases, location preferences and market conditions also affected demand.

Instead of leaving these homes vacant, MHADA has now reintroduced them through the first-come, first-served method, making better use of public housing assets.

MHADA has also shared its broader housing plans for Mumbai. Over the next two to three months, the authority is expected to launch around 5,000 affordable homes. Nearly half of these units are likely to be located in the Goregaon area.

These upcoming homes will serve different categories, including Economically Weaker Sections (EWS), Lower Income Groups (LIG), Middle Income Groups (MIG), and High Income Groups (HIG). This approach supports inclusive urban development.

The first-come, first-served scheme offers several advantages. It eliminates uncertainty associated with lotteries. Buyers can see available inventory in real time and make quick decisions. The process is transparent, digital, and time-saving.

Additionally, MHADA homes are generally priced lower than private market rates, making them attractive for first-time buyers and middle-income families.

While the scheme is beneficial, applicants should prepare carefully. They must arrange finances in advance, especially the 10 percent booking amount. All documents should be ready to avoid delays. Buyers should also visit the location, if possible, to understand connectivity, surroundings, and infrastructure.

Careful planning reduces the risk of losing a booked flat due to missed deadlines or incomplete paperwork.

The launch of MHADA’s first-come, first-served sale for 118 flats provides a valuable opportunity for Mumbai residents to own affordable homes. With locations spread across major suburbs and South Mumbai, flexible pricing, and a transparent online process, this scheme caters to diverse housing needs. For serious buyers who are financially prepared and well-informed, this initiative can be a practical path towards secure homeownership in one of India’s most competitive property markets.