Tag Archives: Residential Property

Commercial vs. Residential Property

Posted on by

Real estate has long been regarded as a trustworthy investment because it enables people to amass wealth and generate passive income. Commercial and residential real estate investing are the two primary market segments. 

What is Commercial Property? 

In India, properties utilized for commercial purposes are commercial property. It includes workplaces, shops, hotels, warehouses, and other commercial and industrial structures. In India, businesses frequently lease or rent commercial properties, generating income from rental payments. Location, rental yield, infrastructure development, and general market conditions are just a few examples of the variables that affect the value of commercial real estate. 

What is Residential Property?

In India, residential property refers to properties used mainly as residences. It covers single-family homes, condominiums, townhomes, and gated communities. Individuals or families purchase residential properties in India for their use to rent. Location, amenities, connectivity, demand-supply dynamics, and property condition are just a few of the elements that affect residential real estate value.

Rental Income for Commercial vs. Residential Property

When contemplating investing in real estate, rental income is a crucial factor. Property buyers are frequently perplexed over whether investing in a residential or commercial property would yield a higher return on their money. Senior real estate expert Arvind Nandan notes that the general asset selection principles, such as the property’s location, quality of construction, age, and usage, are the same whether the property is residential or commercial. “Remember a few things when you consider investing in terms of the expected rental income for residential versus commercial property. Commercial properties have longer lease terms than residential properties, which typically require annual leases. Due to the frequent tenant turnover, vacancy risks are higher in residential properties. Property buyers should, therefore, consider the qualitative aspects of these two segments before deciding between leasing commercial or residential property, the expert advises. 

Commercial vs. Residential Properties: Rewards vs. Risk 

Tax Advantages: Rental income from commercial and residential properties is subject to taxation. However, under Sections 24 and 80C of the Income-Tax Act, real estate acquired with a home loan is eligible for tax breaks. 

Because residential properties experience frequent tenant turnover, higher maintenance and upkeep expenses, and lower returns, risk and volatility may be higher in residential properties. Commercial real estate provides reliable, long-term renters with steady income streams. 

Both entering and leaving an investment aren’t with illiquid assets. A portfolio of commercial properties would be easier to create with Real Estate Investment Trust (REIT) regulations. Building a portfolio of commercial properties would be easier under Real Estate Investment Trust (REIT) regulations than acquiring residential ones. Additionally, because there is a much higher demand than supply for Grade A pre-leased assets, they are more liquid than residential properties. 

Before deciding whether to invest in residential or commercial property, it is crucial to factor in the location, investment amount, and tenure in addition to the above factors. 

Investment in Residential Property: Pros and Cons 

Benefits Drawbacks 
Cheaper Entry Fee. Low rental income and yields. 
There’s no minimum size available. Investment in furnishings to make it affordable to rent
Loan applications are widely available The lease will be of 36 months. 
Leasing procedures are typically much quicker. 
As compared to commercial properties, returns last for a short period. 

Investment in Commercial Properties: Pros and Cons 

Pros Cons 
Higher rental yield returns Commercial property capital values typically exhibit longer-term stability. 
Possible longer-term leases of up to nine yearsFor economic viability, the property might need to meet a minimum size. 
Leasing is available in either a bare or warm shell. Selling is challenging due to the absence of buyers as there could be. 
Commercial values are not very volatile. 

What Is Residential Property?

Posted on by

Residential property is any building or unit zoned and intended for use as living space. It is one of two types of general estate, the other being commercial property. Residential property is typically owner-occupied, but it’s not always the same. According to industry standards, any property with less than five units not for commercial use is residential. Commercial properties are more expensive and have a mix of residential and commercial use. 

India has residential properties to suit a variety of lifestyles, preferences, and budgets. Understanding the various types of residential properties available is essential for making an informed decision, whether you are a first-time homebuyer and investor or looking for a second home. This blog will look at the various types of residential properties available in India and assist you in deciding which one is best for you. 

Types of Residential Properties 

Floors for Builders 

In low-rise buildings, builder floors are self-contained residential units. A different person or family owns each floor. Builder floors combine the convenience of shared infrastructure, such as water supply and security, with the benefit of independent living. 

Gated Communities 

Residential complexes with controlled access and shared amenities are known as gated communities. They provide a mix of apartments, villas, and row houses in a secure setting. Landscaped gardens, clubhouses, sports facilities, and 24-hour security are popular features of gated communities, which provide a holistic living experience. 

Plots 

Plots are parcels of land that are available for sale for residential use. Buying a plot allows you to design your own home. It also lets you choose the type of construction, layout, and materials you want. 

Apartments 

Apartments, also known as flats in India, are the most common type of residential property. They are usually part of multi-story buildings with individual units. Apartments come in different sizes, from small studio apartments to large penthouses. Furthermore, they frequently include shared amenities such as parking, security, and recreational facilities. 

Independent Houses 

Independent houses, bungalows, and standalone houses are single-family homes with no common walls. As a result, they provide increased privacy, freedom, and space. Independent houses are ideal for those seeking exclusivity and the ability to personalize their home. Individual homes are for those seeking exclusivity and the ability to personalize their home. 

Villas 

Villas are luxurious standalone properties that provide plenty of space, modern amenities, and a high level of customization. They frequently include private gardens, swimming pools, and exclusive amenities. Villas offer a luxurious living experience and are popular among wealthy homebuyers. 

Reasons to Invest in Residential Properties 

Real estate is an excellent investment option because it can generate passive income without triggering income tax provisions. Investing in residential properties ensures that your long-term returns are higher. A residential property’s value rises over time, making it an effective strategy for beginning to accumulate wealth. 

Here are some reasons to invest in residential properties 

Increased and consistent rental income

The vast majority of home investors’ per capita standard of living has risen due to the rise in rental income. Home buyers can earn substantial rental income, leading to a peaceful life. The housing rental market is increasing the country’s economic engine, and any economic development will result in higher rents. As a result, even if you raise the rent, there will always be a supply of tenants. 

Affordability 

Residential properties are known for their competitive pricing, which boosts interaction between potential buyers of flats and apartments. The absence of a business incentive is one of the major distinguishing features of residential housing. The lack of profit-driven behavior stabilizes the housing market because developers know that raising apartment prices will result in less demand. 

Additionally, it is essential to understand how to invest in residential properties, monitor upcoming real estate market trends, and watch for the growth of contemporary infrastructure and transportation options.  

Tax benefits 

Residential properties are exempt from taxes and GST. Furthermore, income from investments in residential property is not subject to self-employment tax. But to be cautious, ensure the appropriate consultations occur with tax professionals before investing your money in any property. 

Investors can reliably grow their savings without risking any risks by investing in residential real estate, which gives them a sense of security. More security during trying times and protection for your investments are home. 

Conclusion 

Your lifestyle, preferences, spending power, and long-term objectives will all play a role in helping you choose the ideal residential property in India. Independent homes and villas offer more privacy and customization options than apartments while providing convenience and shared amenities. Gated communities offer a safe and well-equipped living environment, whereas plots let you create a home that is uniquely yours. Builder floors strike a balance between individual freedom and communal facilities. 

How to Save Capital Gain Tax on the Sale of Residential Property

Posted on by

Capital gain is the increase in the value of an asset over time. The owner realizes this capital gain when the property sells. The difference between a property’s selling and purchasing prices is capital gain. 

Any profit derived from a capital asset will qualify as Capital Gains for income tax purposes and be subject to capital gains tax. The land is known as a Capital Asset, and as its value rises, the owner may realize significant capital gains upon sale. Nonetheless, it is worth noting that agricultural land in rural India does not meet the definition of a Capital Asset. As a result, no capital gains tax applies upon its sale. Let us look at how profits from the sale of land will be taxed and how we can save money on taxes. 

Short-term or long-term capital gains

The tax implications vary depending on whether the gains are short-term or long-term. Capital gains are regarded as short-term if you owned the land for up to 2 years (24 months) before selling. It will, however, be considered a long-term capital gain if held for more than 24 months. 

How to Calculate Capital Gains 

Short-term capital gains (STCG)

The Particulars Amount 
Total Selling Price (xxx)
Less:(xxx)
Acquisition Cost (xxx)
Direct Sale Expense (xxx)
Exception Sections- 54B, 54D, 54G, 54GA(xxx)
STCG (Short-term capital gains)(xxx)

The only difference for Long capital assets is that you can deduct the Indexed Cost of Acquisition/ or indexed cost of Improvements from the sale price. Indexation is a way of adjusting the purchase price to account for the impact of inflation using the Cost Inflation Index (CII). This adjustment increases your cost base (and reduces your gains).

Particulars Amount 
Total Sales Price (xxx)
Less:(xxx)
Acquisition Cost Index (xxx)
Direct Sales Expense (xxx)
Exemption Section: 54B, 54D, 54EC, 54F, 54G, 54GA(xxx)
Long-term Capital Gain (xxx)

What are the Tax Rates?

  • STCG is taxable income and taxable at the applicable slab rates. See the latest income tax slab rates. 
  • LTCG gets taxed at a rate of 20%, with an indexation benefit. 

How to save Capital Gain Tax on the sale of residential property

Section 54F (applying if the asset is a long-term capital asset)

If you use the proceeds from the sale of land to buy a house, you may be able to claim an 

exemption from capital gains tax if you meet all of the following conditions:

  • The exemption only applies to individuals or HUFs; it’s not open to corporations, LLPs, or firms. 
  • The new house you buy or build must be in India. 
  • Purchase the house within one year of the land sale date or two years after the sale date. 
  • Build one house within three years of the date of the land sale. 
  • Do not sell the house within three years of purchasing or building it. 
  • You should only own one residential house on the transfer date, excluding the new one. 

If you meet these requirements and invest the sale proceeds in the new home, you will not be subject to capital gain taxes. An exemption is proportional to the amount invested, which is the cost of the new house multiplied by the capital gains/ net consideration. 

By Investing in Capital Gains Account Scheme 

Finding a suitable seller, arranging the necessary funds, and completing the vital paperwork for a new property can be a stressful and time-consuming jobs. Fortunately, the Income Tax Department is aware of these constraints. 

If you need to invest your capital gains till you file your income return (usually on the 31st of July), you may deposit them in the Capital Gains Account Scheme (CGAS). And claim this as an exemption from capital gains in your return; you will not have to pay tax on it. 

54EC (applicable if it is a long-term capital asset)-Purchasing Capital Gains Bonds 

What if you never intend to purchase another property? It is pointless to invest the money in a Capital Gains Account Scheme. In this case, you can still save taxes on your capital gains by putting them in the following bonds:  

  • Rural Electrification Corporation Limited bonds, also known as REC bonds, 
  • Bonds issued by the National Highway Authority of India, or NHAI. 
  • Power Finance Corporation Limited bonds, also known as PFC bonds, 
  • Indian Railway Finance Corporation Limited, or IRFC, issued bonds. 

These are redeemable after five years and cannot be sold within three years of the house’s sale date. 

You have six months to invest in these bonds; however, to claim this exemption, you must invest before the return filing date. The Budget for 2014 has specified that you are allowed to invest a maximum of Rs 50 lakhs in these bonds in a financial year. 

Can a residential real estate agent sell commercial property?

Posted on by

Commercial and residential real estate brokers come from the same industry. The simple fact that both agents work in real estate is the only obvious similarity. The property type that each individual specializes in becomes the defining characteristic. Residential real estate agents assist clients with buying, selling, and renting property for their use. 

On the other hand, commercial property agents handle real estate used for business or investment purposes. These agents advise investors on risk issues and ensure they get an ROI when they buy and sell real estate. They also lease properties, locate new spaces for their assets, and locate new areas for their client’s businesses.

Now, we have to consider several factors to elaborate on other differences. What skill sets do they possess first, for instance? What kind of transactions do they handle, what sort of property do they deal with, etc.?

Properties’ nature

One of the vital factors is the type of property. It covers topics like the number of housing units, the kind of building, the size, etc. You might need a commercial property agent when you want to buy or sell a property with more than four properties. Such transactions require commercial real estate loans, with stringent requirements and technicalities that may be challenging for a residential agent to complete. On the other hand, residential agents can complete transactions that do not require extensive 

residential agents to complete. On the other hand, residential agents can complete transactions that do not require extensive commercial knowledge. 

Skillset

Let’s start with the most fundamental factor in deciding if a residential agent can sell commercial property. Both residential and commercial agents must have specific skills to sell a property. Agents are expected to have perseverance, bravery, and strong communication skills. However, selling commercial properties necessitates a thorough knowledge of economic principles. Commercial agents work with properties that require them to understand concepts that residential agents might become familiar with, such as gross rent multiplier, cap rate, internal rate return, etc. However, commercial transactions may be made when residential agents are skilled in aspects of commercial property. Consider a residential agent with extensive knowledge of rent rolls, caps, and internal rates. They’re in a position to conduct business thanks to these skill sets. 

Partnership 

A residential real estate agent can sell commercial property by collaborating with a commercial agent. In addition to helping the client get the best rates, working with a commercial agent offers independent analysis. 

Databases create an issue for qualified residential agents. Most commercial businesses maintain a database of available lease spaces. A residential agent may not, thus, have access to these “private” lease spaces. 

Conclusion 

Agents who specialize in residential sales may also be able to sell commercial properties in some circumstances. Nevertheless, depending on the type of property you are dealing with, it is advisable to select a knowledgeable agent. Choose a residential agent if the property is for personal use; commercial agents are better suited for dealing with commercial real estate. Working with an expert gives you value for money and service. 

The Impact of GST on Renting of Residential Property in India

Posted on by

On June 28 and 29, 2022, the 47th GST Council meeting occurred. Following the previous GST Council meeting, there were multiple modifications to the Goods and Services Tax (GST). The partial elimination of the GST exemption for services provided in connection with the rental of residential property is one of these significant changes.

It’s crucial to recall that services involving the rental of residential properties for use as a residence were exempt from GST as of July 1, 2017. As of July 18, 2022, certain elements of the exemption will be withdrawn.

Residential and commercial rentals are subject to the GST on residential property rentals. Therefore, even if a residential property is rented out for commercial purposes, the rent remains subject to GST. 

ParticularsNew notificationsOld notifications which are amended vide the new notifications
Notice covering exemption available under GSTNotification no. 04/2022- Central Tax (Rate) dated 13th July 2022 [amendment effective from 18th July 2022]Notification no. 12/2017- Central Tax (Rate) dated 28th June 2017
Notification covering the applicability of the reverse charge mechanismNotification no. 05/2022- Central Tax (Rate) dated 13th July 2022 [amendment effective from 18th July 2022]Notification no. 13/2017- Central Tax (Rate) dated 28th June 2017

The said amendment relating to the applicability of GST on the rental of residential property is briefly covered in the present article.

GST liability for renting a residential property till July 17, 2022

Since the beginning of the Goods and Services Tax (GST), or as of July 1, 2017, any person who is engaged in renting out residential properties specifically for habitation was eligible for a GST exemption. Notably, the exemption listed at SI No. 12 of Notification No. 12/2017- Central Tax (Rate) from June 28, 2017, is tabulated below: 

Heading Description of service Rate Condition 
Heading 9963/ Heading 99721Facilities through the rental of a home for use as a residence NILNIL

The aforementioned makes it abundantly clear that renting out a residential property to anyone who intends to live there is exempt from all regulations. In other words, when renting a residential property to someone for a business purpose, GST is due. 

GST validity for residential property rentals as effective from July 18, 2022

According to notification number 04/2022- Central Tax dated July 13, 2022, SI. No. 12 of notification number 12/2017- Central Tax (Rate) dated June 28, 2017, changed. The amendment states that the phrase “except where the residential dwelling is rented to the registered person” will be added after the words “as a residence.”

Therefore, after the publication of notification no. 04/2022- Central Tax (Rate) dated July 13, 2022, SI. No. as of July 18, 2022, will read as follows: 

Heading Description  Rate Condition 
Heading 9963/ Heading 99721If the property is not rented by a registered person, renting it to be used as a home is prohibited NilNil

With effect from July 18, 2022, GST will apply to residential rentals as follows:

Particulars GST Position post 18th July 2022
Renting a residential property for residential use to the person registered under GST Taxable as of July 18, 2022
(Free from 1 July 2017 to 17 July 2022 and Taxable from 18th July 2022)
Renting a residential property for a personal reason to an individual who isn’t registered with the GST Exempted from 1st July 2017 
Rental of a residential property for a business purpose to a person who is registered for GST Taxable from 1st July 2017
Renting a home for a business for an individual not registered under GSTTaxable from 1st July 2017 

The corresponding modification to the reverse charge service mechanism for renting residential dwellings- 

The fundamental notification, Notification No. 13/2017-Central Tax (Rate), dated June 28, 2017, covers the list of services to which the Reverse Charge Mechanism is applicable. SI. NO. 5AA was added to Notification No. 13/2017- Central Tax (Rate), dated June 28, 2017, by Notification No. 05/2022 – Central Tax  (Rate), dated June 13, 2022. The said SI.No. 5AA is tabulated hereunder-  

SI.No. Description of Service Service providerService receiver 
5AARenting the residential dwelling to the registered person as a serviceAny person Any registered person 

As a result, the registered person (also known as the service recipient) who receives services by renting a residential property is required to pay GST under the Reverse Charge Mechanism. In nut-shell, even if the service provider of the renting of a residential dwelling is registered under the GST, the registered service receiver will be liable to discharge the GST under Reverse Charge Mechanism. 

The conclusion that GST applies to the rental of residential property – 

The following table offers an overview of how GST will be used for residential property rentals starting July 18, 2022. 

Particular GST Applicability GST payable by the service provider GST payable by the service receiver 
Services of renting of residential dwelling for residential purposes to the person registered under GSTGST-taxable as of July 18, 2022,No Yes
Services related to renting a home for private purposes to a person not registered under GST Exempted NANA 

How to save tax on property – For sellers

Posted on by

When selling a property, sellers want to know how much tax they’ll pay and whether there is any way to reduce or avoid the tax. The article below focuses on capital gains tax for sellers who are selling a property.

A self-occupied house gives you two avenues of saving taxes which are the payment of interest and repayment of principal. You can get Rs 2 lakh deduction under section 24b of the Income-tax Act, 1961 on interest payment and Rs 1.5 lakh on principal repayment under section 80C.

What is a Capital asset?

Capital assets include land, buildings, jewelry, vehicles, trademarks, machinery, patents, and licenses. When a capital asset is sold and any profit is received, it is known as capital gains. Agricultural land is not a capital asset.


Capital gains tax on residential property for sellers:

To understand capital gains, let’s consider an example. Regarding residential property, there are two types of capital gains tax: long-term capital gain and short-term capital gain. We will now discuss these two taxes.

  1. LTCG (LONG-TERM CAPITAL GAINS)- If you hold a property for more than 24 months, you pay a flat rate of 20% tax on any capital gains. Exemptions are available in this.
  2. STCG (SHORT-TERM CAPITAL GAINS)- If you hold the property for less than 24 months, you will be charged short-term capital gains tax. The government taxes the individual at their slab rate of income tax. If you are in the 30% bracket, then STCG will be 30%. You do not receive any benefits for indexation (i.e., inflation). The amount for which you purchased the property and sold it, the difference will be taxed.

The following chart illustrates and differentiates between long-term capital gains and short-term capital gains.

CAPITAL GAINS ON RESIDENTIAL PROPERTY                STCG                         LTCG
TIMELess than 24 months(2 years)        More than 24 months (2 years)
TAX@Slab       Flat rate 20%
EXEMPTIONNo    Yes
INDEXATIONNo       Yes

Capital gain tax exemption:

Furthermore, we will discuss three ways in which you can save on long-term capital gains tax when selling residential property and other assets.

  1. SECTION 54- Under section 54, individuals and Hindu undivided families (HUF) can claim tax benefits on residential property they own. The minimum holding period is two years. It is important to note that only residential properties qualify for this section; commercial properties do not qualify. Next, the residential property must be a constructed property that you are selling. If you are selling the residential plot, then you will not get any benefit from it. If you invest the profits received from the proceeds in the purchase of 1 or 2 residential properties or the construction of another property, you will get a complete exemption from long-term capital gains tax.
    1. The capital gains from selling the property must be put in a new property which can be purchased within 1 year of the sale or within 2 years of the sale, in order to claim tax exemption. Similarly, if you are constructing a property, then for the forthcoming 3 years, if construction is completed, tax exemption will be available for you. Here, you only need to invest the number of capital gains i.e. profits; you do not have to invest the entire amount.
    2. FOR EXAMPLE: Twenty years ago you purchased a residential property for Rs 60 lakhs. And now sold it for Rs 90 lakhs. So 30 lakhs is a long-term capital gain (LTCG). Invest this 30 lakhs in 1 or 2 properties or some construction work; you don’t need to invest the entire 90 lakhs. The maximum capital gain which you can claim is up to Rs 2 crores. This exemption can be claimed once in a lifetime and will be reversed if you sell this new property within 3 years from its purchase date. If you invest this amount into bank fixed deposits or a savings account, this cannot be claimed as an income tax exemption. Banks offer a capital gains account scheme if you wish to claim the tax exemption.
  2. SECTION 54EC- Any individual can open a capital gains account. Any asset like; stocks, mutual funds, bonds, and house property may be used as collateral for this type of account. A 3-year holding period is required, with the ability to invest within 6 months. The maximum amount that can be supported is 50 lakhs, but all must be invested in specified bonds with a 5-year lock-in period. These bonds offer good returns on investment and are available only through this type of account.
  3. SECTION 54F- Now, finally, we come to Section 54F. In this section, any individual or Hindu Undivided Family (HUF) can claim tax exemption on capital assets other than a house property. Such assets include bonds, stocks, commercial property, and plots. The person taking the exemption shall not hold more than one house property. To acquire the asset’s value, you must buy residential property or construct it. This section does not cover any plots. The time limit for claiming tax exemption is 1 year back or 2 years forward if you purchase a property; construction is forward 3 years.

There are some other conditions under SECTION 54F and i.e.;

  1. The entire sale proceeds must be invested. Invest the entire 90 lakhs and not a partial amount or capital gains on which you can claim full exemption. You can only claim a partial exemption if part of the money is invested.
  2. If you sell this new property within three years of its purchase, the exemption will be reversed.
  3. If you want to claim the capital gains tax exemption, invest in a capital gains account. You cannot claim this exemption on a savings account.

New DTC will be implemented from 2011

Posted on by

On June 15, the revised Direct Tax Code (DTC) was released which has got approval now. This new DTC will be implemented from 2011. The aim of this revision is to simplify the existing income tax laws. There are some changes proposed in the code for the real estate sector too which go as follows:
Taxation policy for Rental Income Originally, according to DTC, the gross rent was to be calculated at a presumptive rate of 6% of either the market value, or acquisition or the cost of construction, whichever is higher. But the revised DTC has proposed that actual rent received or receivable for the financial year should be the basis of calculation.
Home Loan Interest Policy:Originally, it had been proposed to do away with the tax deduction on the interest paid on home loans. But, as per the revised DTC, tax deduction on the interest paid on home loans up to Rs 1.5 lakhs for purchase or construction will continue.  This revision is quite encouraging for the buyers to buy residential properties.
Also, the property which has not yet been let out will be kept out of tax calculations. Thus, there will be no deduction against tax or interest.

DTC Revision Beneficial for Realty

Posted on by

income tax
On June 15, the revised draft for the Direct Tax Code was released. This code is a try by the Indian government to simplify the laws of income tax. The government is waiting for the Parliament to pass the code and plans to adopt it from April 1, 2011.

Below is the list of some must know changes proposed in the draft code with respect to realty sector.

Short-term capital gains: As per the proposals, tax will be imposed on any gain or loss made on the sale of an asset within a year.

Long-term capital gains: The proposed laws say that after an year of purchase, the taxation policy on any gain or loss made on the sale of an asset will be implemented as per the long-term capital gains tax policy.

As per the draft code, from April 1, 2011, April 1, 1981 will not be considered for calculating the discount rate; rather April 1, 2000 will be considered for the same.

Rental Income Taxation Policy: The draft code has proposed that the gross rent should be calculated on the actual rent receivable or received for the financial year.

Home loan Interest Rates: The draft DTC intends to keep on deducing tax on the interest paid on home loans up to Rs 1.5 lakh for construction or purchase of residential property.

Self Occupied House Property: Any self occupied house property (property not been let out) will be allowed for deduction on account of interest to the tune of Rs 1.5 lakh.

This revised draft code of the DTC has come up as a boom for the home buyers and home owners. The revision seems to be beneficial for all, be it is investors or developers.

What Should the Buyers do?

Posted on by

Delhi Properties - Real Estate India - Unitech Location
The apartment buyers were already burdened by the day by day increasing property rates, and now come another burden to their door. Since last month, many developers have been demanding the buyers to start paying up the service tax announced in Union Budget, 2010, i.e. a 2.5% tax.

However, this service tax will be imposed only on the under construction residential project or where the building has not yet received its occupation certificate. Some sources revealed that some developers admitted that they asked purchasers to pay this tax.

On the other hand, buyers say that they were not told about this additional taxation at the time of booking of flats. A market source told that although the buyers are raising voice against this game played by builders, but they do not have much choice. As they are forced to pay the development charges, society fees, hefty parking charges and other various charges, they will have to pay this tax too.

Hike in Mumbai Property Prices is expected

Posted on by

Blackstone Hotel Omaha, Nebraska
April 20, 2010

A current report by JLLM, Jones Lang LaSalle Meghraj revealed the fact that since sales are increasing and investor sentiment s are being strengthen, residential housing prices in Mumbai are expected to move further upside.

According to the report, demand for commercial spaces is improving and this growth is likely to continue till the end of 2010. As far as leases and outright purchases are concerned, this will result into a large number of transactions.

The supply is coming in all segments of residential, from luxury to mass housing. For the next year, in order to keep the markets going, both retail and commercial segments are also yielding enough supply.

The report also said that since many developers are now going for public funding, a large number of activities on the residential property front, owing to the strong demand will take place.

Besides, in order to boost accessibility more locations within the city and reduce commuting time, infrastructure projects such as the monorail, metro, and flyovers are being put in place.

Swami said that considering the pace at which these measures are implemented, in the medium to long-term this is good news for the realty sector. He also added that residential realty is likely to continue its demand growth, and thus will be on the priority list of most builders.

Residential realty prices moving up

Posted on by

Residential real estate prices are going up. In the last three months, prices of affordable apartments have appreciated by around 10% across the country.

Anshuman Magazine, MD – real estate consultancy firm CB Richard Ellis – South Asia, said, “With improvement in the sentiment in the economy, transactions in the affordable range of residential real estate have gone up. This has made developers to increase prices by 5%-10% in the last three months”.

The developers had cut prices by around 30% in first two quarters of calendar 2009 to revive the demand of residential units, which plummeted to a low due to the global financial crisis. Magazine said the price cut led to some recovery in demand. Enthused by the partial recovery, he said, the developers, who had sold a substantial portion of their projects at hugely discounted prices, decided to increase them marginally in the next phase.

According to a IIFL report, in Mumbai, prices are up 25%-40% from the bottom in early 2009, while in NCR, the corresponding figure is 15-20 %. “Constrained supply and a revival in demand drove up prices in Mumbai, and NCR,” the report said.

In Mumbai, the prices of apartment in Metropolis appreciated by 38% since March to Rs 10,500 per square feet. Similarly, the project, Planet Godrej, has become 20% costlier to Rs 25,000 per sq ft in the last six months. In NCR also, many developers like DLF, Unitech, Jaypee Greens, Mahagun and Amrapali among others, have increased prices by around 10% from the launch prices in March-June.

In the premium segment also, there is revival in demand, said Vibhor Gupta, senior official of Jaypee Greens. However, the prices have not witnessed any escalation in the premium segment. Similar trend has been noticed in cities like Bangalore, Pune and Chennai.

“The current trend of price escalation can not be sustained as it will affect the demand,” said Aditi Vijayakar, ED of Cushman and Wakefiled, adding, as the demand has revived following interest rate cuts by banks, many developers have announced projects in the affordable range. This will increase the supply and will put pressure on the price rise.

At the same time, another consultant said the financial condition of the developers has not improved to a level that they can hold a project for long. They need cash flow to service the debt, which they have taken to buy lands. The source said the money from other sources like dilution of equity is still not easily available. This has forced developers to depend on the sales proceeds to service debt.

Residential property prices rise

Posted on by

The upward movement has begun. Not only have the sales picked up, but the prices of residential property too have increased 5-15 % in the last couple of months. With a long festive season ahead, realty experts believe property markets could see heightened activity, provided developers desist from increasing prices of residential space any further.

Aditi Vijayakar, the executive director (Residential Services, India) of Cushman and Wakefield, said, “The festive season (September-December) has historically been a buying period, with a large chunk of overall sales being converted during this auspicious time. Some developers see as much as 30-40 % of the yearly sales taking place during the festive season”. Further she pointed out, “Residential prices have increased by 5-15 % from the bottom it made in the first half of the year. If the developers continue to raise the prices then the renewed demand and interest that is being witnessed will start to abate”.

She added, “The previous year has been a taxing one for the real estate industry and the initial signs of recovery are evident in the market, and as most of the sales happen during the festive periods, developers have to be cautious not to hike prices in projects and new launches as this will drive out the end users and prolong the revival in the residential space”.

According to the expert, almost all cities are registering a rise in sale as transactions had frozen up during the start of the year. But now as the economy has stabilized and is back on the growth trajectory, there is a revived interest in buying homes by end users and this increase in confidence, better economy, favorable borrowing conditions and rationalized capital values amongst others which is promoting rising sales across India.

Residential property prices may go down

Posted on by

Knight Frank India said that prices in the residential property segment are likely to decline in a short time. Knight Frank India Chairman Pranay Vakil said, “We feel prices of residential segment may go down over a period of time”. Further he added that the residential segment may see a robust demand in certain markets and it was also a good time for property developers to invest in land.

Real estate demand at this stage is the result of investor-led demand and end-user demand. While investor demand is due to shift in money from equity markets, on the other hand the end-user demand is due to increased consumer confidence and pent-up unmet demand from the recession period. This leads to a rapid increase in demand for real estate and also in property price.

Raymond to enter realty

Posted on by

Textile company Raymond plans to move towards realty sector. The initial project would be to develop the surplus land of 15-20 acres in Thane, where its factory is located. Mr Gautam Singhania, Chairman and Managing Director, Raymond, said in a press conference that the primary focus would be in the residential segment and funding would be from internal accruals. He further said, “This proposal is in line with the strategy of the company to unlock value of the land.” Further he added that it was subject to shareholders’ approval.

Plaza Centers to invest three thousand crore

Posted on by

Zuri Group Global is planning to invest about twelve hundred crore rupees for setting up five-star business hotels and luxury residential properties over the coming three years.

The investments would have a debt-equity ratio of 70:30. The company was open to raising funds through the private equity and IPO routes.

The Bangalore-headquartered company plans to open three to four hotels of 150-175 rooms each in Pune, Ahmedabad, Kolkata, Nagpur, Delhi (NCR) and Mysore entailing investment of Rs 800 crore over next three years.

Zuri was also planning to start constructing this year its luxury villas and apartments in Goa, which would entail an investment of Rs 400 crore including land cost. Zuri had acquired 300 acres for the project. The approvals for the project are in place and the villas are expected to be ready in 18 months from zero date.

NHB Residex to cover cities with over 1 million population

Posted on by

National Housing Bank (NHB) aims to cover all cities with population of over one million under its NHB Residex, which is the country’s first official residential property price index.
Currently, the NHB Residex gives relative movement of residential property prices in different localities in fifteen cities.
According to Mr S. Sridhar, Chairman of NHB, “By the end of next year, we want to cover sixty-three cities — all cities with over one million population”.
He also said that NHB Residex will be available on a half-yearly basis from now. The values for the index are derived from the market, and not from Government data.

Residential property becomes cheaper

Posted on by

Home Loan
Photo by thisperthlifeResidential property prices are expected to fall by about 10% this year. Residential property rates declined by 18% to 20% in this March. Despite this drop, buyers are watching market scenario with ‘wait and watch’ policy. This trend is likely to continue through 2009. Mr. Sudhir Nair, Head, CRISIL Research says, “Demand in the commercial and retail segment is likely to remain under stress for the next two years owing to excess supply and weak off take.”

It is believed that lower home loan interest rates would help to revive demand in the residential segment. Hence, capital values are likely to stabilise in the first half of 2010, and increase during the second half of the year.