I am currently abroad but my fianc�e resides in India. The two of us are planning to buy an apartment now in India. 

I have listed my questions below.

- Vasanth Kumar

1. Is it possible to register the apartment and get a home loan on both of our names even before marriage?

Nothing stops both of you from jointly buying and registering a flat in both your names even before marriage.

Unfortunately, I am afraid most banks are unlikely to provide finance to fund it before you get married.

Since this is a special case with you being abroad, there is a chance one of the relatively smaller banks or home finance company may fund this even before your marriage.

If this is proving to be a problem, one way out is to get into a registered marriage which will enable the bank to fund the property though your civil marriage. The traditional and religious ceremonies can take place later.

2. Will the home loan company or bank require my presence in India for the formalities?

The bank or home loan company, if it agrees to provide the loan, does not require you to be present in India to obtain the loan.

You can provide a Power of Attorney to a local person (even your fianc�e) who can than sign all the papers on your behalf.

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