India, June 9 -- A Chinese homebuyer who believed he had purchased an apartment on the 34th floor of a newly built residential tower was stunned to learn, years later, that the building had only 32 storeys. More than a decade after the purchase, he reportedly has not received possession of the apartment and is still pursuing a refund.The case offers Indian homebuyers an important lesson: due diligence must go far beyond reviewing the apartment layout, the brochure, or the payment schedule. Legal experts say buyers, particularly those purchasing homes on higher floors, should verify sanctioned building plans, completion and occupancy certificates.

While premium floors often command higher prices for their views and exclusivity, buyers mus...