5 Reasons Why India is One of the Top Realty Hotspots in Asia

There is a big change in the way people think about property nowadays. Previously one used to buy property for accommodation for themselves. But now, people buy property as a lifetime investment. If you are interested in investing a part of your income in real estate, you have to choose the property very carefully. Thankfully, finding real estate is never too hard as India is constantly expanding in the realty industry.

Presently, India is booming in real estate zone, especially in its metropolitan cities. In 2016, if you want to buy property in Mumbai or Bengaluru, it would be a wise investment. Followed by these cities are properties in Delhi, Chennai, and Pune. A recent survey stated that 35% of expats staying in the UAE wanted to buy property in Mumbai.

• The Attractive Government Policies

The Government of India has come up with some liberalization measures in the past few months which has increased foreign investors’ interest in real estate market in India. The Indian Property Show held this December from 11th -13th at the Dubai World Trade Center revealed Bengaluru as one of the favorite areas for NRI investment because of it’s growth in many fields simultaneously in the last few years.

This goes to show that the Government of India has paid serious attention in bringing in foreign investment through real estate. The minimum built-up area in case of foreign direct investment (FDI) was 50,000 sq. ft. which is now reduced to 20,000 sq. ft. Though the economic structure of the country shows dis-balance at times, the property investment has not been affected by this.

• Greater Demand

Presently there lies a huge opportunity of investment in upcoming and happening cities like Mumbai and Bengaluru. Mumbai stands as the first choice of real estate investment due to the immense business options and opportunities. Mumbai is facing problems with the scarcity of free land for further construction. So, Navi Mumbai and other cities are coming up in the periphery of the city of Mumbai. In the last one decade Bengaluru has developed massively in the technology industry, becoming the best hot spot for the IT sector in the country. The availability of skilled labor and capital-backed start-ups are also a prime reason for the city’s growth.

• Free Lands Readily Available

If you are planning to invest in real estate, India is an attractive destination. It is the right time to invest in a property in Bengaluru as it’s the information technology hub which in today’s world will provide jobs to millions. So, people will need places to live a smart life with lots of modern amenities. A large number of properties are available in the city and most of them are purely for investment purpose which offer good returns opportunities in the future. It is said that Bengaluru is the third largest real estate investment city for High Net worth Individuals (HNIs) and one of the cities right for Non Resident Indians (NRIs) to settle if they want to come back to India in the future to settle.

• Some Facts and Figures

‘Emerging Trends in Real Estate Asia Pacific 2014’ was a survey published jointly by the Urban Land Institute (ULI) and PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC), which stated that Indian cities are in the list of top 25 real estate investment spots of the Asia Pacific region. A survey was made where about 22,300 NRIs participated all over the UAE. These are a few striking facts that revealed themselves after the survey.

The main reason of purchase of property in India remains for personal use, which is about 54.42% of the population. Now, 45.57% of people want to possess a property for investment only. More than 65% of NRIs are looking for financial institutions to help them invest in property. 68.75% of the NRIs are willing to invest in real estate properties within six months. 17.49% of the NRI investors are looking for properties at an affordable range of 5 to 25 lakhs, whereas 51.35% are willing to spend money in the mid segment of 26 to 75 lakhs, 31% are ready to invest in properties ranging from 76 lakhs and above.

NRIs are most interested in residential apartments, which is 79.33%. Then are the villas and the commercial properties are their last choice.

As is evident, India’s real estate market has all the makings for an investment hotspot in Asia, and the rest of the world. If you’re looking to buy a buy a house in India, visit commonfloor.com for a breezy property buying experience.

This is a guest post by Naresh G

An analysis of the Indian luxury real estate market

Gone are the days when people compromised on residential facilities and amenities. These days, everyone wishes to have a gym or swimming pool on their residential premises. Convenience is no longer an option. It has become a compulsion to homeowners. Thankfully, the Indian real estate market has evolved from being a market obsessive about a home with a location to a new and vibrant concept of branded homes. Luxury housing concept refers to houses that are approximately 2000 sq. feet in area as the starting size of apartments. It goes onto much larger sizes depending on the category of luxury housing that the project is looking at offering. At this moment, potential buyers are checking out luxury villas for sale in Bangalore, Hyderabad, and Chennai. Today, luxury homes are the fastest growing segment of residential housing. Studies reveal that to cater to this growth in demand, India would require 1.5 million luxury homes over the next 15 years.

• How has globalization contributed to the development of luxury real estate?

In the last decade, rapid globalization has paved the way for employment opportunities. Due to this, income earned on the executive level is significantly high. Individuals from this segment are exposed to world-class amenities, are well-read, well-traveled, and thus, have an idea of what they want as a reflection of their taste and lifestyle. It has acted as a catalyst and paved the way for real estate developers to earn high-incentives while simultaneously catering to the housing needs of the uber wealthy of the city. These are the ones who are happy to pay for a luxurious property that would be an indicator of their social and financial standing.

Indian real estate market has witnessed a surge in the sale of properties due to an emerging concept of owning more than one luxury property by the upper segments of society. Investment in premium properties further diversifies the assets of an individual and is primarily motivated by a variety of reasons that range towards a passionate inclination or even investment purposes.

• Factors that draw potential buyers towards luxurious segment

There are multiple factors that a customer keeps in mind before investing in luxurious properties. Apartments and villas in Devanahalli, Bangalore, and other locations of South India are widely in demand. The location is stated to be the prime factor. Outstanding infrastructure, the status of people living in the vicinity, trouble-free access to nearby locations, etc. play a crucial role. Properties that are situated near golf courses, beaches, mountain tops are all time favorite developments. Research indicates that top locations in luxury segments in India are like ones that have an inclination towards environment-friendly projects. A vast number of individuals are demanding homes that would have less impact or no impact on the Eco-system. Green Homes make use of Eco-friendly/recycled materials for construction, use of solar energy and bio-gas plants, have more windows to allow natural light. These are some features that are considered while making a purchase.

• What is the future of luxury residential real estate in India?

Major steps are being taken towards the creation of intelligent living spaces. The use of high-tech built-in features that allow you to lock-unlock doors, air-conditioners, turn on the lights, etc., with a click of your phone, high-speed elevators and security systems such as limited access cards always makes a mark. Builders are even collaborating with international designers and brands to create a statement. Currently, the luxury real estate market is going through a slowdown due to an oversupply situation. NRIs are skeptical about the investment in this sector due to global economic downturn.

Ultimately, a smart buyer knows that it would make sense to use, this time, as the property prices are at an all-time-low, and would rise in the long run.

This is a guest post by Deepak Yewle

Filipinos, Foreigners and Former-Filipinos: Process of having a Home in the Philippines

Having your own real estate in the Philippines is nice to hear. There are many beautiful places to go. Beaches like Boracay in Aklan, waterfalls like Pagsanjan falls in Laguna, and big shopping malls. If you are a foreigner, you will like the people here in the Philippines because of their warm hospitality. Having a home in this country is quite difficult, especially if you’re a foreigner. You must undergo processes to have one.

For Filipinos, owning or having a home by themselves is not quite easy. Finding a place that suites your taste, finding a place that is near in the places you want to go, and finding a perfect home for your family. But don’t worry, there are people who can help you, they are called Real Estate Brokers. Brokers will help you find your perfect home and place. Their responsibility is to offer you a development that’s probably close enough to your dream house.

For foreigners, you own a building, but not the piece of land where the building is put on. So you can rent the land for 25 years* (which should be enough) and build a house on it which you own.You can purchase a unit in condominium buildings or high-rise apartment as long as foreign ownership will not exceed to 40 percent in a single project. But if you are keen on purchasing your own land, there are options:

• If you are married to a Filipino citizen, you can buy land but the title will be provided in his/her spouse name, but if in event of death or separation, the land remains to the Filipinos and will be given to his/her heirs (siblings or families)

• Another option to acquire land is through corporation. And only 40% in corporation is foreign-owned and the 60% is to the Filipinos. The land can be leased by the foreigner on a long term contract for an initial 50 year period and renewable every 25 years.

• If you are a retired foreigner, you can own a business and property by the use of the visa called the Special Resident Retirement Visa (SRRV). This visa cost $1500 for application and $400 a year to renew it. You just have to deposit money in a local bank account with the amount of $10,000 and $50,000. The exact amount depends on your age and your pension status.

For Former-Filipinos, same as the natural Filipinos, the process of owning or having a home is the same. Former-Filipinos are natural born Filipinos that are naturalized citizens in different foreign countries. If a former-Filipino who avails Dual Citizenship Law can buy as much land as any other Filipino Citizens. If a Former-Filipino does not avail, they can still own land but it is limited.

For Residential Use

• Only up to 1,000 square meters of residential land.
• Only up to one (1) hectare of agricultural of farm land.

For Business / Commercial Use

• Only up to 5,000 square meters of urban land.
• Only up to three (3) hectares of rural land.

   
Ergo, owning or having a land in Philippines is not a joke. You must know the law and the processes and have to follow it for your own good. Don't get easily discouraged just because the process of having a home or land is quite hard because in the long run, it is really worth it. You have to be patient, and respect the country. Good day, and Happy Living and have a good life!

This is a guest post by Sam Lemuel Mabatid from Philippines

Emerging Trend of Affordable Luxury Housing

~ win- win situation for all

Fast emerging HNI segment in Delhi NCR has boosted strong demand for luxury homes, so much so that this segment has surpassed all expectations. Due to high disposable income and greater aspirations, HNI buyers naturally want to lead a better standard of life and hence the demand for quality dwellings has witnessed considerable upsurge. Even to meet their expectations, a large number of developers have also ventured into this segment, resulting into a massive upsurge of luxury housing projects around the capital.

However, not every project is compatible to provide the truly desired luxury and most of the so called luxury projects are nothing, but demonstration of basic luxury features and amenities. To fulfill the actual demand of the buyers and in order to provide similar facilities and amenities ‘affordable luxury’ is another growing segment. In this segment a strong demand has been witnessed over the years which have created a win-win situation for everyone. In other words, the concept of luxury homes in India is striving hard to have relevance to a wider cross-section of the population.

Resultant, the affordable luxury homes segment is fulfilling all the expectations in the integrated township format. Luxury living projects though involve larger spaces and the provision of exclusive features such as individual swimming pools, reserved parking and smart interiors, affordable luxury projects on the other hand, offer all these facilities, but in compact format.  In addition affordable luxury homes located in such a setting also bring with them the matchless benefits of integrated township living for the home-buyers.

Such projects are helpful for the middle income group in realizing their dream of improving their lifestyle. Affordable luxury projects have successfully captured the larger market by providing the home buyers actually what they truly want rather than what artificially created standards of luxury offers.

In simple terms affordable luxury project are developed in such a manner that these remain in the financial reach of a much larger audience. The whole aim of developing such projects is centered around a distinct luxury flavor and experience without pricing the project out of the pocket of the mid-income segment of buyers. Affordable luxury projects are thus conceived and designed to meet the aspirations of middle-income buyers and so the developer has to upgrade the projects to a superior lifestyle without increasing their financial burden.

However, looking at the current real estate development scenario and the inspirational level of the home buyers, affordable luxury market segment is a good investment option.

This is a guest post by Aman Nagar, Director-Paras Buildtech

 

Apartment Related Compliances a Real Estate Salesman must know

Though almost every Real Estate Development company has a separate Compliance officer, to take care of various compliance, but Real Estate Salesman should also be aware of various Unit/Flat related compliance as he is the first point of contact between the company and the Customer. Since he is meeting the customer, therefore, generally the compliance officer will get the compliance completed through him and also have various documents delivered to client through him.

Hence, Real estate salesman's knowledge of compliance is very critical.

• Booking Amount: 

When he receives booking amount , client is given a code in company’s system and under that code he should ensure that Client’s file is started. A receipt should be issued to client for the Booking Amount received and that receipt contains information like Client’s Name, His Father & Mother’s Names, His Contact Address, His Permanent Address, Details of Nominee like Name, Relation and preferably Nominee’s Signatures also, Details of Payment Received: Cheque/DD No. (If Cheque/DD) or Cash, Date, Amount, Unit Number (Here he is temporarily allotted a Unit Number also).

• Booking Documents

Along with booking amount salesman must take following documents so as to complete the booking documents set:

1. Booking/Registration Form along with booking terms & conditions completely filled & signed by client.
2. Price List, with the price at which he is purchasing circled & signed by client. However, if client is buying at a price other than printed, in that case that price should be handwritten on Price List, circled & signed.
3. Payment Plan: A company may have different payment plans, so the one applicable to this deal should be attached along with & signed.

Once this is done, he is through with the booking process and move on to the next steps of the process. Here one thing very important to mention is that every payment he receives from customer should be by adding 3.50% Service Tax. And this has to be religiously deposited to government at the end of month.

• Allotment Installment

Now the 2nd installment is called the “Allotment Installment”. Here again a routine receipt for payment received in issued. But what is more important is that, at this stage Buyer-Builder Agreement is signed between client & developer. Two completely filled copies of the same should be given to client for signing. Under no condition, should it be first signed by a representative of company. Client signs both the copies, and attaches his KYC documents along with it and returns it back to company.

Then Authorized person of company signs both the sets, after which one copy goes to Client & other to his file.

P.S.: Each & Every paper entering client file should be signed by Client

• Due Payment Intimation

Whenever a customer’s payment becomes due as per the Payment Schedule he has chosen , compliance officer , may be with the assistance of his team, sends him an intimation.
After the intimation has been sent by compliance officer, salesman should follow with client as well concerned channel partner to get the payment within due time.

• Cancellation Of Booking

If the payment doesn’t come even after the passage of 90 Days (Again varies from company to company), then a cancellation letter should be sent to customer through Registered/Speed Post.
Salesman should also intimate this to client as well concerned channel partner.

• Transfer Cases

Many a times clients will like to transfer their property in someone else name. For that, salesman should have a properly worded & vetted by a Lawyer Transfer Set. This Transfer Set on a Stamp Paper of Rs. 100 should be filled & signed by both Transferor & Transferee. Both will attach their KYC documents along with & get it notarized. On submission of this, Transferor will have no rights over this property.

• Cancellation

During the process many persons will like to get the unit cancelled also due to some reason or the other. For this also salesman should have a properly worded & vetted by an advocate cancellation set. Any person willing to cancel a unit will fill it on a stamp paper of Rs. 100. Then after submission of the same, salesman should release him the payment as per company’s policy.

Cancellation will be complete once that person has refund amount in his account after which he will have no right over the said property.


This is a guest post by G S Bedi

Why Is Bangalore The Top Destination For Real Estate Development In India?

Anyone living in Bangalore will always talk about how amazing the city is. And it is no secret that it is a highly favored real estate market as well. So what is it that makes Bangalore click so? Let’s take a look at some of the reasons that people love to put their money in Bangalore real estate.

• Work Opportunities

Bangalore is the IT hub of India. But moreover, it is the most favored location for companies to set up their head offices whether Indian or international. Bangalore has also seen a spike in the number of new age start-ups that have found their footing in the booming Bangalore market. Many young cosmopolitans are opting to relocate to Bangalore due to the varied job opportunities it offers.

• Favorable Climate

Bangalore is one of the best cities in India, climate-wise. With cold winters, sunny summers and beautiful monsoons, the climate here is pleasant all year round. After the sweltering heat of Mumbai and the extreme climate fluctuations of Delhi, the weather in Bangalore comes as a welcome change.

• Social Infrastructure

Bangalore boasts of a high standard of living. Social and professional lives have equal importance and the people of Bangalore are very fond of their recreational activity options. It is an extremely contemporary city and caters to people from all walks of life. So whether one wants to spend the weekend shopping till they empty their pockets or by soaking in some art and cultural entertainment, Bangalore has it all. With plenty of shopping malls, multiplexes, art galleries, performance art theatres and innumerable restaurants and eateries, every social need is fulfilled in this beautiful city.

• Varied Real Estate

Bangalore is not short of options when it comes to real estate. Whether you are looking for a luxury villa, a penthouse, a studio apartment or just a midsized 2 BHK flat, the variety in Bangalore real estate has something for everyone. With multiple construction companies in the city, innumerable projects sprout up every few months across price segments and cater to the needs of the diverse population of Bangalore.

• Civic Infrastructure

Bangalore has very well developed civic infrastructure to make the lives of every citizen much easier. With excellent roads, flyovers, metro lines and top notch public transport services, connectivity and accessibility are never a problem in the city. You can get from point A to point B without any hassles and worries. Along with this there is ample water and power supply that satisfies the need of the population.

• Steady Appreciation

Bangalore real estate has seen a steady growth in prices over the last couple of years. The return on investment is also high which makes it a favorable market for those wishing to purchase a home. And with the booming real estate market, the demand for properties in Bangalore is rising like never before which ensures the profitability of a purchase.

All in all, it seems like Bangalore deserves to be rank 1 when it comes to real estate. With all these favorable conditions packed together, it’s no wonder that so many people want to set up camp here.



This is a guest post by Naresh who is working with CommonFloor as content writer.

Aamir, Shahrukh and others, just another piece of musical instruments in a song composed and conceived by Media

By: Sachin Gupta | Twitter Follow @sach_gupta

Media has done it again.
Media has composed a song again

A song titled ‘intolerance’. People only know the title of the song and not the lyrics. But the song is so well conceived and composed by media that everyone is humming it. Humming it without even knowing the lyrics. Media has organized a great orchestra and musical instruments to compose this song titled ‘intolerance’.

Media has done it again.
Media has composed a song again.

Orchestra party includes who’s who of big political parties, Bollywood stars, writers, scientists, scholars, and great public acting as the chorus on social media.

Media has done it again.
Media has composed a song again.

Everyone is humming the song titled ‘intolerance’. It’s a blockbuster. It’s topping the charts. It’s everywhere from drawing rooms to office canteens, from sports grounds to club houses, from institutes to recreational grounds. Everyone loves the tune. Everyone is dancing. It’s even being played in discos. Everyone is loving this new song titled ‘intolerance’.

Media has done it again.
Media has composed a new song again.

Media did not care to put the lyrics in front of everyone because had they done so, the song would not have become a massive hit. They just brought out the lyrics when song has become the frenzy of the nation. What a calculated master stroke by Media.

Media has done it again.
Media has composed a song again.

So, where are the lyrics (facts) of the song called ‘intolerant’? Here are the lyrics (facts). Picture attached*

Source: MHA (Ministry of Home Affairs)


In many other instances too, media has composed the songs without revealing the lyrics. And when song becomes a massive hit they secretly reveal the lyrics. But before that, round table debates are organized 24x7. The torch bearers of media instigate people to take up sides. One versus the other. Gang war happens on Twitter.

Aamir Khan and Shahrukh just happen to fall in the trap of media and became the part of orchestra and joined the song. When song is being continuously played day in and day out, how can any sensitive person keep out of it…no way. They also ended up becoming ‘flute’ and ‘drums’ in the song called “intolerance” conceived and composed by media. The song reached a crescendo status. Yes, that’s what media wanted. Blockbuster hit, anything less would have been a dampener.

24X7 TV channels are mushrooming...how else would they survive? So called ‘5 stars’ journalists are the toast of the town, why wouldn’t they compose a song every now and then?

Non existential and irrelevant politicians such as Sangeet Som, Mani Shankar Aiyar, Adityanath, Azam Khan, Salman Kursheed, Arvind Kejriwal, and many others of the same tribe jump in the song and play their part. Mike and camera are put in front of them. One plays harmonium, one plays guitar, another one plays saxophone…..all of them do their bit by taking this side or that side based on their political affiliations.

And of course, people are humming it too on social media thereby acting as chorus.

Everyone is now involved and everyone is now humming the great song “intolerant” conceived and composed by media.

Media has done it again.
Media has composed a song again.

Want to Buy Real Estate? Consider the Top Real Estate Companies in Delhi NCR

Whether you are willing to buy a residential or commercial property in Delhi NCR, you need to be very cautious. Some real estate companies in Delhi NCR are developing projects, both commercial and residential, owing to the rising demand for ownership as well as rental properties. But remember, investing in real estate means you’ll be putting a huge portion of your hard earned money into it, so you need to consider some factors before finalizing the property you want to buy.

You should buy properties that enhance your quality of living along with fulfilling your home-ownership dreams. To make sure that you invest your money in the right property, here are some factors that you need to consider:

1. Find a Registered Real Estate Developer

This is the most important factor while choosing a real estate property in Delhi NCR. There are many instances where buyers have invested in real estate properties that have never materialized. Many people who invested in properties almost five years back still did not get possession of their properties.
So if you want to invest safely, you should always look for registered real estate developers who work according to a certain code of conduct.

2. Work with Reputed Builders

This is another important aspect when looking for top real estate companies in Delhi NCR. Always carry out background checks of the real estate developer you are willing to work with. Refrain from working with developers who have been involved in various legal issues.

3. Location

Location of a property, whether commercial or residential, is very important. If you are willing to buy 3 BHK spacious apartments Gurgaon, make sure it is located close to hospitals, schools and work area. If you are willing to buy commercial property, make sure it is located close to the city center and the main transportation points.

4. Check the Exact Carpet Area, Amenities and Facilities Offered

Most of the real estate developers would quote prices based on the total area of an apartment, but you should insist on paying the price depending upon the exact carpet area. Apart from the carpet area, you should consider the amenities and facilities offered. Check whether there are 24hour water and electric supply, ample parking space, generator backup, etc.

5. Registration Fees

Apart from the actual price of the property, you will also have to pay registration fees, which depends on the value of the property. So, the registration fee for a 3 BHK spacious apartment Gurgaon will be more than that of a 2 BHK apartment.

A Final Thought

Buying property is one of the biggest investments in one’s life, so you should be extra cautious so that you don’t get conned. Always work with top real estate companies in Delhi NCR who are registered with some real estate organization or the government. The right decision will bring back a lot of benefits while a small mistake can make you repent for the entire lifetime.

Summary: Buying a property is one of the biggest decisions that you make in your lifetime, so to get the best deal it is necessary that you work with the top real estate companies in Delhi NCR and invest in the right kind of property.






This is a guest post by Amelia Hill

Union Minister For Urban Development M Venkaiah Naidu launches India’s First Real Estate and Property Business TV channel - Magicbricks NOW

Union Minister For Urban Development M Venkaiah Naidu launches

India’s First Real Estate and Property Business TV channel - Magicbricks NOW

 

• ‘Magicbricks NOW will provide an unbiased, trustworthy and authoritative perspective on the property business and will help its viewers ‘Be Un-Confused’ about this important sector’
• CHANNEL’S COMMERCIAL LAUNCHES ON 1 NOVEMBER 2015

New Delhi 28 Oct 2015: The growing Indian Real Estate and Infrastructure sector received a significant addition when Honorable Union Minister of Urban Development, Housing and Urban Poverty Alleviation and Parliamentary Affairs, Mr M Venkaiah Naidu, introduced India’s first Real Estate and Property Business TV Channel, Magicbricks NOW, today.

Unveiling the channel name, Mr Naidu told media persons, “I am delighted to be here today on this auspicious  day. Times NOW from the Times Network is the most credible, premium news channel in the country, and when I came to know that this network is launching a news channel to create a platform for the real estate and housing sector, I felt really happy. Because it is going to partner with me in our plans to provide housing for everyone by 2022.

“So I am very happy that a dedicated channel called Magicbricks NOW is launching for the sector. My congratulations. I hope Magicbricks NOW will do the required magic for the sector; and bricks are always required to construct houses, and housing is the most important aspect of anybody’s life, Mr Naidu said, adding  “I suggest that news and views should not be combined for the channel and that should be the noble beauty of the new channel.”

M K Anand, MD & CEO – Times Network, said, “We are delighted to offer India its first 24x7 real estate and property business television channel, Magicbricks NOW,  and are extremely happy that it has been launched at the hands of the Honourable Mr Naidu today.  Magicbricks NOW has been launched to guide the consumer through the complex and seemingly intimidating world of real-estate transactions.  While real estate is of paramount importance in the life of every Indian, equally, the space is full of complexities, jargon and confusion.  Magicbricks NOW will provide unbiased, trustworthy and the most authoritative perspectives on the property business to help the consumer ‘Be un-confused’,” Anand said.

“We are confident Magicbricks NOW will enjoy wide reach – not only because it is a genre pioneer that covers the extremely important property business, but also because it will leverage the proven strengths of our network distribution and marketing,” Anand said, adding, “It is befitting that India’s first real estate and property business TV channel has been launched by the Nation’s biggest media conglomerate, The Times Group, which has always had a deep and abiding emotional connect with middle class Indians, Magicbricks NOW will cement this relationship further.”

Magicbricks NOW has strategically partnered with Magicbricks.Com, India's No 1 Property portal for property buyers and sellers. Apart from them - Lotus Greens Developers Private Ltd and Mantri Developers Pvt.Ltd, leading developers of the country on board as key sponsors. Their association with us from Day One is testimony to their belief in our vision for Magicbricks NOW.

Faye D’Souza Editor – Magicbricks NOW, said, “Magicbricks NOW is here with a singular focus – on the end consumer. Magicbricks NOW will offer a rich array of programs that range from News bulletins to property hotlines, debates, leadership insights and more. These will not just keep the end consumer informed, but will serve as a common meeting ground for knowledge-driven individual buyers, sellers and businesses looking seriously at the world of property and real estate.”

Marquee channel programming includes The Property Guide, The Home Buyer’s Guide, Property Hotline, The Interiors Show, The Vastu show, Real Estate Tycoons and, of course, The News, every hour on the hour.

Speaking about the association with Times Network to create the new channel, Sudhir Pai, CEO-Magicbricks.com, said, “Magicbricks is delighted to be a part of this initiative with the Times Network. Our endeavor has always been to make our brand ubiquitous across media so as to provide consumers with rich and in-depth information when it comes to matters of property. With this association we leverage the visual appeal of television to communicate our rich data and analytics in an easy-to-consume manner for the consumer. With this launch, we strengthen the offering and make ourselves available at every touch point to consumers."

Target audience: The 24/7 channel will target NCCS A and B viewers in the 25-37 and 38-50 years age groups. In viewer profile terms, it will target both, consumers who are looking to buy, sell or rent real estate, and businesses and service providers like brokers, builders, interior decorators, paint companies and others.

Distribution: Magicbricks NOW will be distributed extensively across DTH and Cable, and is already present on all platforms that carry the channels of Times Network.

This is a press release by Times Group.

India’s economic growth to improve despite unfavorable global winds

With the fluctuations in the economy of India, investors are playing it safe and choosing to invest carefully. According to the finance minister of India, Arun Jaitley, due to the continuing reforms, India’s financial growth will skyrocket higher than last year 7.3 percent despite global challenges. Since years now, India has always been in the spotlight for its economic growth and its impact on the real estate segment. Researchers claim that among the different metropolitan cities and residential areas of India, the apartments and villas in Devanahalli, Bangalore, have witnessed significant demand by potential buyers and real estate investors.

• Changes in Indian economic scenario

As the nation has the potential to be the bright spot in the gloomy world economic scenario, foreign investors are lured with the relaxed and hassle-free conditions of doing business in India. The private sector investments have been slow, and a high cost of capital was also affecting several other factors. Local companies, which were working with some constraints in the wake of global demand slowdown and a plethora of capabilities, were capable of overcoming those challenges. Today the financial situation in the country is no longer acute as it used to be earlier. The fiscal deficit is dropping down while the inflation is under control. A keen understanding of competitive federalism is driving the Indian growth story as the states are all aggressively seeking investment. The ease of doing business is still said to be work in progress. Significant advancement has been witnessed, and a lot of improvements need to be done on a continuous basis. The cost of capital is high and its impact on infrastructure, real estate sector, and manufacturing, which is an essential engine of growth in India, is currently felt.

• Attracting foreign investors to invest in India

On seeing India’s growth story, international investors with a collective asset under management of $10 trillion have been advised to invest in infrastructure, manufacturing, and other sectors that have funding needs. It is considered that international investment is going to be an exceptional source of resource for India as the government is working on a slew of reforms. It includes a new law to ensure disputes are settled through arbitration within six months.

• How real estate in India is affected by the dynamic nature of India economy

In India, housing plays a critical factor from affordable accommodations to infrastructure and generation of employment. The residential segment comprising of building, townships, colleges, hospitals, and other projects make the maximum contribution in real estate industry and commands a large part of its market share. The overall health of the economy plays a key factor that directly affects the value of real estate. The GDP, manufacturing activity, prices of goods, employment data and few other indicators measure the health of the economy. The size and scale of the property market make it an attractive and lucrative avenue for investors. Due to the low capital requirements, low transaction costs, and high liquidity available in the market, the average investor prefers to invest indirectly in real estate. It has been observed that the south Indian cities have become a hotspot for real estate investment. Be it for residential purposes or as second home, cities such as Hyderabad, Chennai, and Bangalore are often chosen by potential investors. Buying apartments and villas in Devanahalli or Bannerghatta is more than just luxury.

 

With foreign investors organizing investment summits in their states and finding a resolution of long-pending tax disputes, the nation is well on its way to overcoming economic hiccups and finding financial stability.

 

 

This is a guest post by Surendra Hiranandani, Founder and Managing Director, House of Hiranandani

Office space on golf course road Gurgaon

Gurgaon has become the epicenter of commercial office space leasing in Delhi NCR region. For large established companies as well as for start-ups, Gurgaon is the preferred choice when it comes to renting the office space. Many factors including the presence of quality infrastructure (national highways), close proximity to airport, and presence of quality housing make Gurgaon the hot commercial destination.

Within Gurgaon, Golf course road has become the most sought after location for many large and start-up enterprises. Golf course road is well connected to NH-8 and Delhi via MG Road. With the completion of rapid metro, gold course road will further enhance its value as one of the most premium office address in entire Delhi NCR region.

Companies looking to lease office space on Golf course road in Gurgaon can choose from the following 2 options:

1. Lease required office space area and then set it up including the fit-outs, furniture, lighting, ducting, HVAC. Thereafter, maintain and manage the office space facility.
2. Lease office space area and start working from day 1. No fit-outs required; no electricity bill; no internet bill; no water charges; and no maintenance charges. Thereby, a company can save upfront capital expenditures which can run into crores of rupees.

Find below the detailed document highlighting the benefits of office space defined in option 2. At the same time, one can inquire about the availability of such a office space on Golf course road in Gurgaon.

Commercial furnished office space in golf course road gurgaon from Green Realtech Projects Pvt. Ltd

What is Employer Assisted Housing (EAH) benefits plan? How does it help employers?

What is an Employer Assisted Housing (EAH) Plan?

In today’s time when “war for talent” is getting fiercer by the day, employee retention has become the buzz word among various HR leaders across different industry sectors. Rising attrition rates and high turnover costs creates a negative impact on companies’ bottom-line. In such a scenario, Employee benefits plans play a critical role in employee retention.

One such employee retention tool that is gaining popularity worldwide is Employer Assisted Housing (EAH). Research across the world has shown that Employer Assisted Housing (EAH) helps in overcoming the challenges of rising attrition rate and high turnover costs. EAH Plans are gaining in popularity worldwide because they make an employer stand out from the crowd, enhance recruitment efforts, reduce turnover costs, improve employee loyalty towards the employer, and can have a positive impact on the bottom-line.


Typical functions within an HR department of a company and need for focus on benefits program:

Organizational & employee development, business leadership, consulting, compensation are the priority issues in an organization. However, at the same time employee benefits program with regards to employee relocation, work life balance, family issues, and expatriate management are gaining importance in most successful companies worldwide. And fulfilling housing requirements of employees goes a long way in handling these issues.

Losing key employees to completion can be disastrous for a company. With an EAH service, employers can realize a financial gain for their company by retaining valuable employees. At the same time, employers help their employees achieve the dream of home-ownership. EAH services are simple to administer, and can help an employer recruit and retain valuable employees, thus creating a positive impact on the company’s bottom-line.


Why Employer Assisted Housing (EAH), what are the benefits?

A. For Employers

1. Recruitment – sets your company apart in attracting the best talent
2. Retention – Motivates employees to stay
3. Reduced time for commuting – employees can be encouraged to live closer to work place
4. Relationships – stronger customer relationships with highly motivated employees
5. Return – company’s financial statements can be strengthened
6. Recognition – enhances company’s reputation as the employer to work for
7. Reduced Cost of homes – employees gets homes at comparatively lower costs
8. Revitalization – more disposable income of employees help revitalize the economy and neighborhoods 

B. For Employees

1. Realization of dream of home-ownership
2. Enhanced lifestyle associated with home-ownership, such as greater community, recreational, and school involvement and quality of life
3. Less time spent in traffic
4. Investment in a property with potential for appreciation
5. Reduced cost of homes
6. Security of availing home with predefined quality standards and on time delivery

How much does it actually cost to offer and administer an EAH service?

EAH creates a win/win/win situation among employees, employers, and the economy as a whole. A typical EAH service requires employers to identify the target segment of employees from the ranks of executive, middle management, entry level, and skilled workers. While there can be in-numerous benefits of EAH service as explained earlier, there are no direct costs to employers for arranging for an EAH service. However HR department need to collect all the relevant data such as targeted employees, size, budget, location preferences, etc.

Typical Employer Assisted Housing (EAH) Benefits that can be offered to employees:

Detailed Presentation:

For implementing Employer Assisted Housing Plans in your organization contact us at:
Email: nirrtigo@nirrtigo.com
Phone: +91 9971889899, 9971884499

Employer Housing assistance plans for corporate employees from Green Realtech Projects Pvt. Ltd

Top investments destination in Mumbai MMR- January - June 2015

Mumbai property prices are among the highest in the country.  Slow property sales and inflated pricing has led to buyers postponing their property buying decision considerably resulting in an inventory pile-up of 46 months.

IndiaProperty.com has analysed data across localities in Mumbai to arrive at the top localities favored by home buyers in the city. The data identifies the top investment destinations across the Mumbai region. In-depth analysis has been done for one locality from three different regions across the city, providing information on the various home buying influential criteria such as demand, budget preference, price trends and preferred residential property formats. A similar study has been done for other cities namely – Delhi NCR, Bangalore, Hyderabad and Chennai.

Attached and appended below are highlights of the study by IndiaProperty.com specific to the Mumbai region:

• During the first half of 2015 the government has initiated a number of infrastructure projects that will drive sales across Mumbai region like the Coastal Road Project from Nariman Point to Kandivali, clearance of Navi Mumbai Airport
• The top investment destination across Mumbai include Panvel, Kalyan, Nalasopara, Kharghar, Mira Road, Dombivli, Kamothe, Ulwe and Sanpada
• The Maharashtra Government plans to develop Mumbai as a gaming and animation industry hub – leading to job creation and investment opportunities thereby increasing the demand for residential and commercial units
• An additional 200% FSI (Floor Space Index) for IT parks thereby reducing the rentals for commercial properties

Looking at one locality from three different regions across the city:

Panvel:

1. 76% home buyers prefer investing in properties that are in under construction phase
2. Budget preferences ranges between 0-30 lakhs for 71% of home buyers 
3. The approval of elevated railway line from CST to Panvel with a 6 lane road will reduce the commute time. Thus, increasing demand in this locality

Kalyan:

• 1BHK compact housing unit is the preferred choice by 71% home buyers 
• Statistics indicate rise in property price by  12% in the last 2 years
• MMRDA has planned a 29km Kalyan Ring Road to connect Kalyan and its neighbouring localities. Thus, increasing demand in this locality

Nalasopara:

• Budget preferences ranges between 0-30 lakhs for 91% of home buyers 
• 1BHK compact housing unit is the preferred choice by 78% home buyers 
• The area is well planned and developed by CIDCO and provides better infrastructure for its residents. Thus, increasing demand in this locality

Detailed analyses are in the info-graphic appended below.

Top investments destination in mumbai mmr jan-jun15 from Green Realtech Projects Pvt. Ltd

Land Acquisition Bill - A Game Changer for Real Estate

On February 24, 2015, the government proposed new amendments to the Land Acquisition Bill that was passed in 2013. Since, then this bill has been a controversial topic in most of the Lok Sabha Parliament sessions. While the government is assuring the Lok Sabha that the changes will benefit the farmers and bring a revolution in the real estate industry, the opposition holds that the changes are anti-farmer. The present Indian government believes that due to significant national projects, infrastructure and defense certain changes in the Land Acquisition Bill are essential. However, the opposition says that the changes proposed by the government are difficult to make.

Real estate specialists believe that if these changes are passed it would bring a 360-degree shift in the industry. During the past five years, the investment of foreign companies in the Indian real estate industry has gone down tremendously. To keep money flowing into the real estate sector, the Indian government has proposed some big changes in the luxury real estate sector. These changes would benefit big landowners as well as small landowners.

Everyone today wants a luxurious home in India. Due to this, even small developers are looking at building beautiful and fully equipped luxurious homes in India. Earlier, foreign investors couldn’t invest into an Indian real estate project that was below 50,000 square meters. This number has now been changed to 20,000 square meters, which is beneficial for small land owners. Also, foreign investors, if invested in a developing project, weren’t allowed to withdraw or transfer their ownership stake to another interested investor. The investor had to wait for a minimum of three years after the completion of the project.

But the newly pushed reforms now give the foreign investors the liberty to transfer or take out their money from the project. However, this process would require the approval of the Indian government.

These changes are sure to attract more overseas investors to invest in Indian infrastructural housing projects. Apart from the bigger developers, these changes will benefit small developers too. The investment is sure to give smaller developers a much-needed backing to build more comforting and facilitated housing properties.

Due to these revised changes pushed by the current Indian government, the real estate market has a considerable improvement in foreign investments that will help developers to build great projects in different states of India. Many developers have started mid-sized projects offering luxury apartments in Chennai, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Mumbai, Delhi and more.

Analysts say that the passage of this bill will have positive implications for the real estate sector of India. It will help to boost the realty economic growth, which in return will provide developers to create advanced modern and urban housing spaces with high-quality. The approval of the bill is still in a debate in the parliament, but sources have pointed that the government is planning to take back the amendments proposed. They may roll back all the six changes proposed in the Land Acquisition Bill. But these changes made for foreign investments have bought a drastic shift in the real estate industry. The reforms will help developers to build big and better luxurious homes, boosting the housing infrastructure and development in India. Buy your luxury apartment in Hyderabad, Chennai, Bangalore, Delhi or Mumbai today.


This is a guest post by Deepak Yewle

Why is Property market still in doldrums??

Why is real estate market still in doldrums?? Many say, it’s because of BJP Government. But is this good or bad?? Let’s find out.

As we all know, property market in India thrives on cash (or unreported income). As long as cash is being pumped into the realty market, it thrives and investors make merry. However, the Narendra Modi government's efforts to uncover black money have reduced the generation of black money in the system. The impact of this change will become more pronounced in the coming months.

"With the new Black Money Bill (which was passed by the Parliament on May 26) and with the Cabinet approving the Benami Transactions Bill in May this year, the crackdown on Black Money will continue further.

All these steps by the Narendra Modi government have impacted the realty market in short term; however, it's a step in right direction (if we look at the long term prospects).

For too many years, people avoided taxes and pumped that cash into realty market. Consequences of such theft (avoidance of tax) meant property prices were shooting (almost doubling in 2 years). People parked their unreported income into real estate. Some bought 8 flats, some bought 15 plots. It was crazy. Real estate became the best asset class to make money in short period of time.

However, working class (or salaried class) was suffering because of high values of real estate. They could not buy their dream home. Their dreams of owning a home was fading, slowly but surely. Congress party did nothing to stop this mad rush to own the real estate.

Even though, Black Money from abroad can take time (years) to come to India. But, we have GOOD news that generation of Black Money within the country may slow down (or stop) and Property prices can become affordable for the working class and their dreams of owning a home can become a reality.

Investors can cry and they will cry, but it’s a step in right direction by Modi government. Few (maybe 1 or 2 %) investors shall not be able to decide the fate of 90% of public.

Amen :)

Mixed use properties on the rise in Kolkata

A ‘Mixed-use’ property or project is defined as any construction that combines residential, commercial, industrial and cultural units. These projects are steadily becoming the preferred option for real estate developers in Kolkata. The returns from mixed-use properties are much greater than properties which are just residential or commercial in nature.

• Mixed-use properties are on the rise in Kolkata

Kolkata has seen its fair share of large commercial and residential projects over the years but the trend of mixed-use properties is growing. The most noticeable configuration of mixed-use properties in the city are shopping malls and residential complexes. These projects however require large plots of land for their construction.

Mixed-use properties provide many benefits for residents, businesses, investors and real estate developers. Home buyers prefer these properties as they are in close proximity to their work place, school or a shopping complex. This leads to less travelling time since many amenities are just a short distance away.

The residential segment in a mixed-use property provides a customer base for the commercial sections like a mall or shopping center, which makes it an attractive investment option for businesses.

• Double delight for real estate developers

Mixed-use properties are also beneficial for real estate developers. The greatest benefit is that the development risk is divided between the options provided in the project. The presence of residential and commercial properties within the project attracts both sets of buyers. This leads to a faster recoup of the investment made by the developers.

Mixed-use properties can also be restructured, depending on the requirement from the developers. The reconfiguration can lead to an increase in the number of commercial units or residential units as required.

Mixed-use projects require large tracts of land for construction and the developing regions of the city are perfect for these properties. The development of these comparatively barren regions helps attract more buyers, because of the range of amenities provided. The availability of land for these projects also leads to better planning in the region.

• The future of mixed-use properties

Earlier, these projects were rarely perceived as lucrative opportunities in the Kolkata real estate scene. However the success of a couple of early projects has altered this, making real estate developers eager to provide more mixed-use projects for the residents of Kolkata.

The options for varying configurations of mixed-use properties increases their scope, and the benefits for home and commercial owners make mixed-use properties a great option to invest in.

Summary: Construction and planning of mixed-use properties is on the rise in India. The projects cater to both residential and commercial property buyers since they provide a lot of benefits compared to stand alone complexes or office buildings.

Author Bio: One of the leading players in the real estate market, Ideal Group takes pride in its rich portfolio of world-class ongoing and upcoming residential projects in Kolkata. 

Bathroom Makeovers in India

When it comes to bathroom makeover most of the people see it as an expense rather than an investment. Indeed true that the business in bathroom is plain necessity, it brings in great joy to indulge in a hot tub bath for hours if the atmosphere is right. But making over a bathroom can do much more than that. After all who would like the ugly sight of dampened walls lashed with broken tiles or leaky taps that steals the unwanted attention.

Benefits of bathroom remodeling- 

Bathroom renovations bring in tremendous benefits when done with care and planning. Here are few benefits of bathroom remodeling which brings in both form and functionality-

1. Bathroom renovation brings in the jest of luxury.
2. It creates right ambience giving you the joy of indulgence.
3. It shows off your taste for design and brings in personal touch.
4. Renovation can also mean more comfort and functionality, which lacked earlier.
5. When somebody enters the bathroom it gives the same feeling and equal pleasure as the rest of your home.
6. It can bring in a lot more space with the help of either virtual arrangements or physical constructions.
7. It can also make you more space for additional storage required for bathroom linen and towels hence decluttering other part of your house.
8. It improves the cleanliness of the bathroom by getting rid of old rusty pipes or hardware that is lashed withbuildup, which is beyond the reach of acids or other cleaning agents.
9. It also makes your bathroom green if you can opt for energy efficient bulbs and eco-friendly materials. This’ll save you on utility bills and also create healthy environment. 
10. Gets rid of mildew or mold accumulated over years, which otherwise could lead you to sickness. This helps to improve your overall health, psychologically as well as physically. It brings in feel good factor and lifts your spirits. 
11. Bathroom remodeling can increase the value of your property since the potential buyers look out for beautiful and functional bathroom while buying a house.  This gives your home immense boost adding to capital gain.

4 Handy tips to uplift your bathroom interiors by giving it a makeover under budget- 

1. Move it and get some floor space-

Huge vanity in bathroom looks stunning but can consume a lot of space. Vanities are a good option for big bathrooms with enough space for mobility.  However, the same good-looking vanity can become cumbersome in small bathrooms occupying most of the space. 

You can optimize floor space in small bathrooms by replacing vanity with modern sleek pedestal sink. This helps you save huge on your budget as well. Or the other way is to have floating vanity that still keeps the floor clear while retaining the look of sophistication. 

Petite wall mounted toilet is another way to add more room in your bathroom. Further if you want wet and dry area to be separate then a shower curtain should suffice. This not only makes it easy to keep it open when not in use but also fits in budget. Having a closed shower room can make your small bathroom too congested. 

2. Create storage space tactfully-

Storage in bathroom is so much more important than just having it done beautifully. You might not have all the space in the world to consider a closet inside the bathroom but having a few selves shouldn’t be so difficult. Sometimes it seems like it’s just not going to work and adding shelves would steal the look. However, with little planning and smart execution you solve the problem just-like-that.

Have a small mirror above the sink and install a shelf below it so that you can accommodate all your daily essentials. The space above your toilet is the most neglected area, utilize it and use it for storage with a chick cabinet or a couple of shelves. You can also squeeze in more storage space by mounting a shelf above the door or double the mirror so that you can hide away stuff behind it with a recessed cabinet or you could even have a full-length mirror that blends in with the style of your bathroom. 

3. Make it feel roomy –

Is your bath smaller and look like a cluttered cage? Here are few things you can do to make it feel bigger and better.

Go for a single tone when it comes to colour. The theory being that lighter is better, uniform color from ceiling to wall to floor makes it feel bigger. Contrast in color can chop off the space making it visually look smaller. Choose uniform colour for flooring, tiles on the wall, sink, bathtub, etc. But you can still play with colours by highlighting the hues of shelves or accessories. 

Make use of larger tiles on the floor as well as on the wall. The smaller the tiles the more the grout lines which tend to break the space and add bulkiness.  Get in some movement with pattern tiles on the floor such as herringbone pattern, which attracts the beholder to the width making it feel wider.

Bigger mirrors give it a more roomy feeling and also make your bathroom grander. You could also use mirrors or glass on top of wall cabinet to give it an illusion of depth rather than bringing it on the face with woody opaque cabinet doors.  Use clear shower curtains or clear glass to separate wet and dry area so that they don’t cut the space visually. 

4. The art and science of lighting your bathroom interiors-

Yes privacy is key in bathroom but don’t let your fear (of being seen in the state) creep in so much that you end up covering your window with dark or shady blinds. Let the light in by covering it with sheer curtains or frosted window glasses. Make use of mirrors to reflect the lights so that your bathroom makes the most from natural sunlight during the day.

When it comes to lighting your bathroom, you might want to use at least 2 types of lights- task lightand ambient light. Task lighting, like the one beside the vanity mirror or top of it helps to see yourself better. When you use the mirror to shave or for other purposes it gives a clearer reflection.You can add ambient light in the center of the bathroom required to illuminate the entire area.  Accent light and decorative light areluxurious options depending on the size of the bathroom, your bathroom décor as well as your budget. 

Conclusion-

Smart design and styling can rock even the smallest of bathrooms all under budget. You can transform your bathroom into a space that grows visually and adhere to functionality with few tricks like the ones mentioned above. A newly done bathroom is just so much more than increasing resale value. It’s a place you want to be in, relax and bath in sophisticationwithout making you claustrophobic.

This is a guest post Contributed by Wienerberger India

Professional Real Estate Consultants (PREC) Vs Agents

Professional Real Estate Consultants (PREC) and agents play very different roles in the real estate market, even though their roles and responsibilities are similar to each other and overlaps at times. A professional real estate consultant usually handles the clients with utmost care and advises the client’s requirements on their investment activities, educate them and help them to grow their money by connecting them to the right people by advising financials, abiding government procedures and the real estate laws. Whereas the normal agent also plays a role on suggesting the properties, showing them different options and helping them throughout the property transactions.

The major difference you could find between PREC and Agent is that, PREC is a well-educated, self-mannered and more disciplined in his approach and about the market; also handles the queries and advises in a professional way and resolves all the queries effectively, whereas you cannot find these kind of qualities in normal agent or realtor and there are very few people in whom you could find professional characteristics.

The agents moves forward along with the market, whereas the PREC takes his time, verifies, understands and have all the records with him before approaching the market. Once he catches the pace of market, he will lead the market on his own proven disciplines and principles, so this makes most of the builders, investors to get accredited by them and get their services. PREC will be studying and catching the pulse of the market much better than the realtors.

Consultancy Fees

Yet again the standard market fees for an agent or PREC are set as standard of 2% on the sale value. But PREC do charge more than 2% on fewer transactions that is because of their dedicated team; such as research, marketing and sales, who has expertise in their own streams, with their own code of conduct, disciplines. Real time consultancy companies like JLL, Knight Frank, Colliers, Cushman Wakefield, Square Yards, India Homes, Prop Tiger, and Property Connect, etc are few names which we can hear in the consulting industry as they have proven their PQRSTs services to the market and that is why they are way more different from any other agents and their charges would be a little higher compared to others.

This is a guest post by Property Connect

India goes mobile for property search

Press Release:

The Indian consumer has moved beyond ‘on-the-go’ shopping of basic necessities such as grocery, fashion or electronic products. The consumer today has extended his purchases on mobile from ‘Roti’, ‘Kapda’ to now ‘Makaan’.

Penetration of mobile and internet connections have aided consumer convenience. Digital revolution and technological advancement has played an important role to accelerate the shift of property search from desktop to mobile. Most people use their mobile device to explore at least one of the following: search for listings, find directions to a house, look for more information, call or e-mail an agent directly, or watch a video while out looking for a home.

Attached are findings from the study conducted by IndiaProperty.com that clearly indicates the growth in use of Mobile for property search.

Real Estate Growth in North Bangalore

Bangalore which is known as Silicon Valley of India continues to attract techies, NRIs and other skilled professionals from all over the globe. According to recent reports, there has been an increase in number of Indians returning back from abroad to the city. Bangalore is also attracting expats from other countries; these facts have become important for making Bangalore (which is an IT Hub) a preferred real estate heaven across the country. Bangalore hot areas like Jayanagar, Malleshwaram, and Koramangala, Indiranagar or Basavanagudi and other famous locations were the only choice of realty investors a decade ago. However, change of real estate trends and continuous expansion of the city has attracted buyers because of competitive price points and the growing infrastructure and the cosmopolitan culture which is spreading across the outskirts of Bangalore. All these changes have made the investment safe and guaranteed in Bangalore. In midst of all Bangalore locations, North Bangalore has shown tremendous growth in real estate and has become one of the greatest developing areas as compared to other locations.

We explain below the ‘key factors’ for potentiality of North Bangalore

• Location: 

Inauguration of Kempegowda International Airport has made North Bangalore as a hot spot of IT city. Major infrastructure developments like flyovers and road widening, malls, and major IT hubs like Manyata Tech Park and proposed SEZ parks in Devenahalli are the major key factors for the growth of North Bangalore.

Importance of north Bangalore will definitely increase as the present projects and new launches are comparatively more and the supply of more residential apartments which is going to be delivered in the next 2 years will see a major infrastructure development.

The projects after hebbal to devenahalli covering doddaballapur, hennur and outer ring road and you can find all the big players in these roads with their unique conceptual lifestyle designing projects. And the prices are starting from 70 lakhs to 7 crores, where you can find majority of millionaires and all the top management bureaucrats residing in these areas.

• Available land bank: 

North Bangalore offers huge land banks due to the major developments and future developments in these areas compared to any other locations, all these factors are attracting many realty players to come up with large residential projects and commercial complexes, which can go well with the needs of investors from various categories. According to the latest research from various sources, North Bangalore market is going to turn into ‘Greater Bangalore’ when compared to the other locations of Bangalore.

• Connectivity: 

North Bangalore has a great connectivity. Entire north Bangalore is well connected with larger part of the city through rail and road. Moreover, expressway joining Hebbal and Yelahanka has decreased the travel time to airport. Upcoming projects in north Bangalore will even make its connectivity better; some of them are High Speed Rail Link, which will connect city center and the international Airport; Monorail project connecting Hebbal, JP Nagar, and Peripheral ring road that will link Tumkur Road, Old Madras Road, Sarjapur Raod and Hosur Road. Good connectivity is required in making smart investment decision, since it provides great prospect, high income, and capital gains for investors in long term.

• Infrastructure: 

Infrastructure growth in north Bangalore has gained breathtaking drive due to Kempegowda International Airport, which became South India’s busiest airport and Manyata Embassy Business Park in Hebbal has biggest MNCs like IBM, Cognizant, Target, etc; larsen & Turbo, GKVK, Jakkur flying club. This part of Bangalore has seen numerous hospitals, educational institutes, and shopping malls in recent years. After analyzing the growth of North Bangalore in all sectors, the State Government has made a decision to increase a number of projects, which includes planned aerospace SEZ, Rs 1,000-crore financial city and the Information Technology Investment Region (ITIR).

• Overview:

As per analysts, it is evident that North Bangalore’s real estate growth is basically driven by new infrastructure developments, land availability, greater connectivity, IT parks, and airport. Real estate market in North Bangalore’s offers diverse products for all types of requirements. Both premium and affordable villas along with apartments, row or town houses, villas, and presidential villas are available at all prices suiting to everyone’s budget. Also Karnataka government has promised to take care of basic infrastructure in north Bangalore, it is certain that investment in real estate will surely show potential return in long term. All these aspects will force real estate growth in North Bangalore region and will bring profits for anyone looking at real estate investment.


This is a guest post by Asharani C

The answer to leading a Luxurious Life - Villa

Living in a spacious setting, with large garden, a huge parking space, stairs coming out from the mid of living room and reaching spacious room set on the upper floor. With a big terrace and a few extra spaces here and there will make everybody’s dream of living in heaven on earth a reality. This is how a luxury apartment aka villa feels like. If you want to know what it is all about, keep reading.
                         
Irrespective of the 16% buyers looking for builder floors in the emerging IT hub of India, the demand for villas continues to grow among the buyers and maintain the niche position. The reason for this demand varies from large space, decoration opportunity to a huge play and parking area.

Irrespective of whatever the reasons typical villa buyers may have, they witness the comfort and superiority they get after investing in a villa.

Reasons for this increase in demand

The factors that have seemingly led the world to demand villas are:

1. They want to stay away from the hustle of the cities
2. The area they will be getting is huge
3. There is a lot of space for innovation or second income
4. Less or no parking/ waste nuisances
5. Rise in income

Along with the above mentioned factors, things like the excitement of living in an independent house with zero interference is what drive property seekers to Bangalore. Another important benefit of investing in villas in Bangalore can be that time of construction is faster and therefore the time of possession.

Reasons why Bangalorites are opting for luxury living provided by villas

When it comes to following your dream of living a spacious and luxurious life, things like the price, income level and taxes etc. does not stop you. In case of Bangalorites, the factors for this choice can be:

• High level of Income

People who live and work in Bangalore are paid more than their other metro counterparts, mostly because of the high cost of living.

• Need of Personal space

Like every other metro people, they too crave for the feeling of being secluded with no interference, where they can relax after a hard days at work.

• Connectivity

The area where villa system is most prevalent is the Sarjapur locality. The area is easily connected to rest of the city through multiple modes of networks.

• Land price

The price of villas here is much lower than what they will get in other metros or similar areas.

• Amenities

The builders who houses in the Sarjapur area provide all the basic amenities that an investor can expect from living in an apartment.


Living in a villa has its own perks but some things should be given huge consideration too, like the age and condition of the property, the reliability of developers, and their past work etc. Other things you should note before making a huge investment is the locality, how is the commutation from this locality, the people who are going to be your future neighbors. Also note the resale value of your property in case you decide to sell it in future.

Villas have proved to provide a luxurious living statement along with comfort and a chance to have a second earning. Investing in one is a sweet deal, but like any other investment make sure you gather full information about the builder group.

This is a guest post by Tripti. Her articles talk about the real estate industry. She is an avid reader and a keen observer.

The Launch of Virtual Tours for Resale and Rental Properties

Indian consumers are increasingly becoming digitally savvy and prefer using online interactions owing to the cost efficiency. Resale and rental properties are no exceptions. With new improvements in design and marketing, every realtor is trying to provide better service. CommonFloor decided to launch live-in virtual tours to improve the property search efficiency for its consumers. Read on to see how and why this idea was conceived.

Why Virtual Tours? 

Sumit Jain, the co-founder and CEO of Bangalore based real estate portal, CommonFloor had one thing to say about the use of pictures. “Photographs are of the past”, he said. This makes every sense since technology today can drive multiple applications in a jiffy. The world is transitioning to virtual reality and Google Glass today, and it makes all the sense to revamp one’s services for today’s age.

By using virtual tours for resale and rented properties, CommonFloor is aiming to provide a close to reality experience. The idea essentially was to eliminate the need to visit the property to make a decision on the same. The live-in virtual tour on the CommonFloor website and mobile app are set to do exactly that.

In 2012, Housing.com had introduced the concept of verified listings that were backed with data. They sent their team to visit every listed house and verify and collect information about the listing. It was the differentiating move then, which the competition adopted within a year’s time.

How is this Information Collected? 

CommonFloor plans to create a hybrid model with its virtual tours. They plan to have their team actively map every single listed house in their portal while empowering brokers with technology. A plan to scale the operations up to 5 lakh property mappings is in place as more than 5000 properties have already given virtual tours. The company provides its services to the customer for free, whereas the revenue pitches is on a “per lead” basis from the brokers/homeowners.

Lalit Mangal, the co-founder and CTO of CommonFloor explains the virtual tours to be a product that gives the company a cutting edge in the market and provides the seekers with a wall-to-wall and ceiling-to-floor exploratory power.

CommonFloor currently has a team of over 1000 employees and has listed over 1 lakh residential projects from 200+ cities. They have also developed the virtual reality based device called CommonFloor Retina that takes live-in tours to the next level.


This is a promotional post by Pravitha Rohit