Home buying guides · · 3 min read · By Sorrel Buildcon
Token Amount for Flat Booking: How Much, When and What to Check
Quick answer
The token amount for flat booking is a small initial payment that reserves a specific unit while papers are prepared. It is usually a fixed sum or a small share of the price and forms part of the booking amount. Under the RERA Act, a builder cannot take more than 10% of the cost before a registered agreement for sale. Always get refund terms in writing.
What is the token amount for flat booking?
When you like a flat, the builder or seller asks for a token to hold it for you and stop it from being sold to someone else. The token amount for flat booking is usually adjusted against the booking amount and then the total price. It shows intent; it is not full ownership. Before you pay, you should know exactly which unit is being held, for how long, at what price, and what happens to the money if either side backs out.
Token vs booking amount vs down payment
| Term | What it usually means |
|---|---|
| Token amount | First payment to hold a specific unit, often a fixed sum |
| Booking amount | Payment with the application form, including the token; together they cannot exceed 10% before a registered agreement under RERA |
| Down payment | Your total own contribution beyond the loan, paid over the plan — see down payment for a 50 lakh flat |
How much should you pay?
There is no fixed rule. Builders often ask for a round sum or a small percentage. The legal ceiling matters more: under Section 13 of the RERA Act, a promoter cannot accept more than 10% of the apartment cost as an advance or application fee before executing a registered agreement for sale. On a ₹50 lakh home, that is ₹5 lakh in total before the agreement. If anyone asks for more upfront, pause and ask why.
Seven checks before paying a token
- Verify the project on the UP RERA portal and match the registration number. See how to verify a UP RERA project.
- Get the unit number, floor, size (super and carpet area) and price in writing.
- Ask for the cost sheet and payment plan — read how to read a builder cost sheet.
- Ask what happens to the token if your loan is not sanctioned.
- Pay by cheque or bank transfer only, in the company's name — never in cash or to an individual.
- Collect a signed, stamped receipt showing the unit and purpose.
- Read the draft agreement for sale before paying more.
Is the token amount refundable?
It depends on what was agreed in writing. Some builders refund the token in full if you cancel within a short window or if your loan is rejected; others deduct a part. Once a registered agreement for sale exists, cancellation is governed by its terms. Read flat booking cancellation refund rules and ask a lawyer to review the clause if the amount is large. If the builder fails to deliver as agreed, RERA gives buyers rights to a refund with interest.
Common mistakes
- Paying a token on the spot at a site visit without seeing papers.
- Accepting a receipt that does not mention the unit number.
- Paying a broker or agent personally.
- Assuming verbal promises about discounts or parking will be honoured — get them in writing.
- Paying tokens on two or three flats at once to keep your options open — you may lose part of each if you cancel.
Buying directly from the builder removes the middleman risk; read why buy directly from the builder.
After the token: next steps
You typically fill an application form, receive an allotment letter, and then sign and register the agreement for sale. Line up your home loan in parallel so later instalments are funded on time. The Sorrel buying process page shows each step. Keep copies of the token receipt, application form and ID documents together; your bank will ask for proof of every payment you have made towards the home.
Booking at Sorrel Heights
Sorrel Buildcon sells directly with no middleman, so every payment is made in the company's name at its office (D-161, Sector 3, Greater Noida West; Mon–Sat 9am–6pm). The 2BHK + Study is indicatively under ₹50 lakh and the 3BHK homes indicatively ₹60–70 lakh, as shared by Sorrel Buildcon and revised from time to time. See price list & payment plan, read about the company on customer trust factors, and book a site visit.
Facts about Sorrel Heights on this page come from the official brochure and Sorrel Buildcon. General guidance is for information only — confirm rules and rates with the relevant authority before you act.