VIJAYAWADA: S Suresh Kumar, in-charge chairman of Andhra Pradesh Real Estate Regulatory Authority (APRERA), warned the public against buying flats or plots in projects not registered with APRERA. He highlighted that some developers and agents are illegally collecting advance payments during “pre-launch” phases without registration, which violates the Real Estate (Regulation and Development) Act, 2016. Kumar emphasized that such actions are punishable and advised all parties to avoid any financial dealings or promotions for unregistered projects. Buyers are encouraged to contact the APRERA helpdesk for project details or to address complaints like possession delays or poor construction.