Haryana RERA

The rules and regulation under Haryana RERA were legitimate in the state from 1st July 2017. The HRERA website which would be entailing  details pertaining to the real estate projects is yet to be launched. The key features of Haryana RERA are as follows –

Developers

1. The developer has to provide intensive and extensive details about the project as well as the company for registering with RERA. Moreover, ongoing projects will have to provide additional details in terms of the total money collected from the customer and status of the project.
2. In case of default by the developer, additional compensation would be applicable apart from standard repayment of the entire amount with interest.
3. Haryana RERA has categorically defined the registration fees for projects falling under different zones as well as types.
4. It is mandatory on part of the developer to update the number and types of apartments sold, number of garages sold, status of the project and status of approval within 15 days of expiry of every quarter on the webpage.
5. If the developer does not work in accordance with the rules and regulation as governed by the authority as well as the appellate tribunal, then a penalty of 5-10% of the project cost or 3 years imprisonment would be pertinent.
6. 70 % of the proceeds from the total sales of the project shall be kept by developer in a different bank account. The funds in this account would be redeemable by the developer according to the status of completion of the project which will be certified by the engineer, architecture and charted accountant.
7. Carpet area would be the price determinant of the apartment. If the developer makes any changes in the apartment, with the consent of the customer, which leads to an increase in the carpet area by more than 3%, then the developer can proportionally charge extra. Conversely, if the carpet area decreases then the developer has to refund the amount within 45 days with interest.
8. Developers can terminate the agreement of sale in case of continuous default by the customer after giving a notice of 30 days. In this case, the refunded amount would be deducted from the booking amount and interest liability.
9. Defect liability of the project is in congruence to the central act i.e. 5 years.

 

Agent

1. All real estate agents who want to operate their businesses will have to register with RERA. The registration fee for a real estate agent under Haryana RERA is Rs. 25,000. On the other hand, all non-indivudual entities will have to pay a resgitering fee of Rs 2,50,000.
2. The agents should work in accordance with the provisions of the act. The validity of their registration is 5 years.

 

Customer

1. Customers have to make payments in accordance to the payment schedule. However, if the buyer defaults in his payment as per the payment schedule, then he/she is liable to pay additional interest of MCLR (Marginal Cost of funds based Lending rate) + 2% on the defaulted amount.
2. In case of disobedience with the orders and decisions of appellate tribunal, customers and agents would be liable to pay 5-10% of the cost of apartment, plot or building accordingly.
3. Customer has the right to terminate the agreement to sale in the case of extension of the time required by the developer to construct the building. Refund would be available to the customer within 45 days along with interest charged on the same.

Conclusion

Overall, the various nuances of Haryana RERA are in congruence with the central act. The act aims to bring transparency and trust in the real estate sector by providing critical information such as scheduled time of completion, construction updates and clearly defined payment schedule to name a few.

However, projects with part occupation certificate or those that have applied for occupancy/completion certificate are exempted from registering under RERA. This may lead to a larger number of projects moving outside the purview of RERA. Nevertheless, if these projects do not receive the certificate within 3 months, it is mandatory for developers to register them under RERA. This increases the chances for a foul play.

A positive outlook can be expected in the longer run as Haryana RERA is expected to bring more number of investors, buyers as well as sellers on a level playing field. Nevertheless, only future can ascertain the actual effect of RERA on price, demand and supply.

Delhi RERA Decoded

The rules under the Real estate regulatory act for Delhi were notified in November 2017 and are, to a large extent, completely in line with the Central Act. Delhi Development Authority is supervising the implementation of Delhi RERA. Here are the key inclusions of the Act:

1. All the real estate projects which are under construction and haven’t received occupancy or completion certificate, must be registered with RERA.
2. The fees for the registration of different projects under Delhi RERA are diverse and are as following –

	Area <= 1000 sq mtrs	Area > 1000 sq mtrs	Maximum Value
Residential Project	Rs 5 per sq mtr	Rs 10 per sq mtr	Rs 5,00,000
Commercial Project	Rs 20 per sq mtr	Rs 25 per sq mtr	Rs 10,00,000
Mixed Project (Residential + Commercial)	Rs 10 per sq mtr	Rs 15 per sq mtr	Rs 7,00,000

 

3. It is mandatory for the developer who has not received the completion certificate before the commencement of Act to deposit 70% of the sales proceed in a separate bank account
4. Funds can be proportionally withdrawn from this account according to the completion of the project. The completion stage and amount to be withdrawn should be certified by engineer, architecture and chartered accountant.
5. Developer has to update the number and types of apartment sold, number of garages sold, status of the project and status of approval within the 15 days expiry of every quarter on the webpage.
6. The price of the apartment would be based on its carpet area. The carpet area would be re-calculated after the completion. Accordingly, the customer would have to pay or will be refunded, if the carpet area increases (more than 3%) or decreases respectively.
7. The defect liability for the projects would be 5 years. Hence, developers would be accountable for structural or other type of defects.
8. The developer will be liable to an imprisonment up to three years and/or payment up to 10% of estimated project cost if he does not act in accordance with the rules and regulation determined by the authority. The same punishment is applicable in case the developer does not conform to the orders and decisions of appellate tribunal.
9. In the case of default by builder or buyer, interest is applicable for both parties which is equivalent to 2% plus SBI’s MCLR (Marginal Cost of funds based Lending Rate).
10. Buyer can claim refund of the entire amount with interest, in case the developer fails to complete the project on stipulated time. Developer is liable to pay the amount within 45 days of buyer’s notice.
11. If the buyer makes a default in payment as per the payment schedule, then interest would be applicable to the unpaid amount. If the default in payment continues, then developer can cancel the registration of the apartment and refund the amount after deducting the appropriate charges.
12. Penalty in terms of imprisonment up to 1 year and/or payment up to 10% of the estimate cost of apartment or building is applicable to both customer and real estate agent in case they do not obey the orders and decisions of appellate tribunal.
13. Real Estate agents have to register themselves with the authority and once registered it will be valid for a period of 5 years.
14. The payment schedule is decided between the consenting parties and followed by them henceforth.

Conclusion

In general, the Delhi RERA is on the same lines as that of the Central Act. It is expected to render transparency as well as trust in the real estate sector. Unlike Maha RERA, which explicitly entails the payment schedule, the Delhi RERA has kept payment schedule at the discretion of the developer and the buyer.

Extent of uncertainties due to Delhi RERA on market determinants such as price, demand and supply is difficult to predict. However, a stable and positive sentiment is expected in the near future.

 

Bangalore developers reposition 2BHK flats as compact 3BHKs

Amidst dwindling demand from home buyers, developers across the country are not leaving any stones unturned to spruce up sales. Developers in Bangalore are no different. One of the ways developers are trying to woo back buyers is by offering 3BHK units in the price of a 2BHK.

For an average Indian family, one of the major concerns while planning to buy a house is to decide whether to go for a 2 BHK or 3 BHK unit. While, a 3 BHK apartment would offer better comfort and more personal space as well as provide scope for future developments in family members, due to the substantial added burden on ones pocket, the dream of buying a 3 BHK house is very often sacrificed. Moreover, with growing number of nuclear families, 2BHKs had become the accepted norm. However, to offset this, developers in Bangalore are revamping their existing strategy and are offering apartments which are congruent in terms of affordability, number of rooms and space.

This trend has become quite evident in the city of Bangalore where various developers are targeting the middle-income group buyers by providing 3BHK apartments at prices that are almost similar to that of 2BHK units. The only way of making this financially viable is by offering an extra room within the same area as that of a 2BHK unit. Thus, what was being marketed as a luxurious 2BHK apartment at 1000-1200 sq ft is now being re-positioned as an affordable 3BHK unit. While a typical 2BHK unit was being sold for a price tag of approximately Rs 55-70 lakh, a 3BHK unit, with the same area, is being pegged at Rs 60-75 lakh. Thus, buyers are able to get a larger configuration by stretching their budgets slightly.

The trend is more prominent in locations of South and North Bangalore. The projects in these regions are constructed by established developers such as Provident Group and VBHC. However, the IT belt in the eastern part of city has not seen this trend yet barring a few exceptions like VBHC Serene Town in Whitefield.

Commenting upon this trend, Anujay Tiwari, a city based property consultant at Assetsrun Consultancy LLP says, “Apart from the existing developers who are offering this option in Bangalore, there are various other projects that would be ready in the next 2-3 years with the same product line. Thus, it seems this trend is here to stay.

Due to the surge in demand from buyers of the affordable segment and the increased focus on affordable housing by the government, many luxury sector developers have also aligned themselves to this trend and find it an effective segment to diversify their existing business.

With the enormous presence of middle-income segment in India, this trend is likely to continue in Bangalore as well as in different metropolitan residential markets of India. Developers are likely to develop projects in these segments as the buyers are already responding well to the existing offerings.

Christmas Decoration Ideas That Will Top Your Neighbours House

Dress up every inch of your house for the Christmas Party with these clever ideas. This article is packed up with smart tricks and chic holiday tips to make your home steal all the limelight in the lane.

• Gift wrapping

Ditch that shiny and glittering gift wrapping paper and go for brown paper to wrap your Christmas presents. Add a touch of Christmas to it with a red ribbon, Christmas bells and pines.

• Christmas wrath

Put a fresh spin on a Christmas wreath. Have a green Christmas with eco-friendly wreaths from reusable materials like fruits and plants, neckties, grapevine, twigs, and pinecones, wine corks, etc.

• Christmas Tree

Living in a small house does not give you the liberty to decorate a large Christmas tree. Instead, decorate your in-house regular plants with Christmas ornaments, lights and clippings.

• Lighting

Picking colors strategically can really pay off. Use blue, red and green lights that will separate the landscaping from the facade. You can also use some old-fashioned Christmas lights with oversized bulbs — plus twinkling candles— and add some serious curb appeal.

• Santa Chairs

Use these simple yet charming chair toppers to add some colour to your dining room. You can also tie a bow around your throw pillows, and they’ll look just like Christmas gifts!

• Chalk it up

Welcome your guests at the party with chic chalkboard sign. You can also write some messages on these boards like Happy Holidays, Joy to the World, Merry Christmas, and so on.

Plan a Perfect Housewarming Party with These Tips

Diwali is considered an auspicious occasion to move into a new home. If you too have moved in a new house recently, festival of Diwali is the best time for you to organize a housewarming party. Here are some tips to host a perfect party that will double up your celebration.
• Decide a theme: selecting a theme will help you to decorate your home according to it and plan a menu that will complement the theme. As it is a festive season, choose bright colors, diyas and lanterns to decorate your home.

• Set a budget: It is very easy to get carried away while hosting a Housewarming party. Especially in a festive season, this party can add up a huge expenditure. Therefore, set a budget beforehand and stick to it no matter what.
• Preserve the memories: Hang a whiteboard on the wall and ask your guests to write their experiences at the party, messages or wishes for you.
• Use flowers: Flowers brings charm and grace at any occasion. Use different types of flowers at your home that will produce the fragrance, warmth and freshness.
• Music, games and firecrackers: Keep the momentum high in your housewarming party with the right type of music and engaging games. Get some firecrackers that will light-up your celebration.
• Return gifts: Select thoughtful return gifts for your guests. Keep in mind that many people exchange gifts during Diwali. So, ditch the mainstream items like vase, tea sets, etc. and give something that your guests will really use and won’t land up in their bed storage.

Make Your Work Desk Lively With These Plants

Are you stuck in a gray, gloomy cubicle when the nature is blooming just outside the office door? How about bringing in some greenery that is easy to maintain and will improve your mood?

Check out our list our list of five low-maintenance office plants that will cheer-up your desk.

• Fishtail Fern

It is an evergreen plant that needs very little sunlight. Being an evergreen plant, it will keep its leaves throughout the year. Its pinnae (leaflets) tips are forked like a fish’s tail giving an unusual appearance.

 

• Peace lily: Apart from increasing your desk’s aesthetic appeal, this plant also enhances the indoor air quality. These plants need little or no sunlight. Also, you will have to water them just once or twice in a week.
• Aloe veraThis is an easy-to-grow plant that requires mild sunlight and slightly moist soil. This plant grows effortlessly in Indian weather conditions. You just need to keep this plant in windowsill for some time every day.

•  Grape Ivy

Low light, dry air and minimal watering is what this plant needs to thrive. This beautiful addition to your office-desk is also a great air-purifier.

• Bamboo plant

Once potted correctly with satisfactory drainage, this plant will grow really well. The ideal place for this plant is where it will get indirect sunlight and will be away from air conditioners and heating sources. This is also considered as lucky plant.

 

Five commonly overlooked expenses while buying a home

Apart from the cost you will pay for actual house, there are many additional expenses that are essential to consider. Especially, if you’re stepping into the property market for the first time, unexpected costs can put a damper on your happiness and crack-up your budget.

So, here are five commonly overlooked expenses you shouldn’t overlook:

• Moving costs:

With so many things to look after, it’s possible to miss the cost of making the house move itself. As moving day approaches, you may be surprised to see how costs and fees start to mount up. To avoid last minute hurdle, finalize your packer & mover at least 15 days in advance. This will give you an idea of how much you’ll have to spend for shifting. If you are going to take help of your friends and relatives, confirm their availability before deciding a moving date.

 

• Interior:

Whether you have bought a brand new house or resale one, keep aside some money to get your interior fixed. This includes charges of plumbing, pest control, fitting electronic appliances, fans, tubelights, mounting your TV, buying new furniture, fixing broadband, repairing jammed disposals, leaky faucets, and this list is endless.

 

• Adjustment costs: If your owner has made advance payments for property taxes, society maintenance, utility bills, etc., you will have to reimburse him for these payments. Some owners might also ask reimbursement for water tanks, mosquito nets, geysers, etc. or they will simply take it away while vacating the place.

• Legal costs: Stamp duty and registration charges take away substantial amount. Furthermore, you will have to pay miscellaneous expenses like the fees of the notary and lawyers who get the job done.

• Additional expenses: Don’t let these expenses catch you off guard. Some societies might charge you to transfer the ownership of a house. You might have to pay electricity supplier, LPG supplier to get the connection transferred on your name. Consult your property advisor & service providers to understand the amount needed to get the ownership transferred on your name.

Keep Your Home Cool in Summer

Summer isn’t all about vacations, trips and ice-creams; it is also about sweat, humidity and rising temperature which turns your house into an oven. It is true that you don’t have control over the climbing mercury, but you can keep your home cool and comfortable even on the scorching days using these simple methods.

• Become a fan of fan: Electric fans, ceiling fans, box fans, and exhaust fans… they are all available out there to cool down your home. Point box fans out the windows so they extract hot air.
• Reduce indoor humidity: Minimize the tasks like midday washing and drying of clothes, and cooking on an open fire. If you can’t skip these household chores, turn on ventilating fans to remove warm, moist air.
• Choose cotton: Ditch those satin, silk, or polyester sheets and switch to light-colored bed linens, drapes, curtains that are made of breathable lightweight cotton
• DIY Air-condition: use this trick to get a cool breeze without shooting up your electricity bills. Position a shallow pan or bowl full of ice and chilled water in front of a fan. The breeze will pick up cold water from the ice’s surface as it melts, creating a cooling mist.
• Low is good: Hot air rises, so beat the heat by setting up your bed or cot as close to the ground as possible. If you live in a multi-floor apartment, sleep on the ground floor instead of an upper storey.
• Turn off the lights: Light bulbs give off heat. Fortunately, in summer, light stays longer; sometimes even till 7.30-8 pm. Take advantage of these naturally extended lit hours and reduce the use of bulbs, tubelights, etc.
• Go Unplugged: Literally disconnect electronics. Do not have things running that don’t need to be on. Gadgets and other small appliances give off heat, even when turned off. So do not forget to unplug them.

 

 

 

Home Decoration Ideas for Festive Season

As the festive season is in full swing, here are some options to jazz up your home. Whether it is Navratri, Diwali, Christmas or a New Year party, your home will look beautiful and magnificent with these decoration tips.

Let there be light: Festive season is all about lights and brightness. Lighting can make a big difference in the look of your home.  Buy some eye-catching chandeliers and lamp shades to create a vibrant and cheerful ambiance. Using a range of lighting in varied heights and locations will let you try different variations at different times.

Make your home smell great: A good fragrance can breathe life into any ambience. A good smelling home is always inviting and appealing. During festive season, light one or two scented candles in your home. You can try different scents for different times of the day.

Burn scented candles to make home smell good.

If you are running out of scented candles, just sprinkle some baking soda on your carpets and sofas, and vacuum it up after 10-15 minutes. It will absorb a bad odour, if any, and leave your home with a neutral pallet.

Change your furnishing: Changing furniture for a festive season could be very expensive; try changing your furnishings. New curtains, drapes, pillow, sofa and table covers will give your home a new look without spending a fortune.

Shuffle your furniture: Sometimes the way to improve the room is not through buying new furniture, but to rearrange the pieces you already have. Shuffling your furniture will give your room a new look instantly. Moreover, it will save your carpet from permanent marks and stains that cause due to heavy furnishings.

Give your home breathing space: In an attempt to make home look dazzling, we sometimes end up filling up space with unwanted items. Go minimalist this festive season by keeping fewer but better-quality pieces. Toss all unwanted stuff and keep  your home clutter free.

Top Myths about Real Estate Advisors Busted

When it comes to buying or selling homes, it seems that everyone has advice to offer about the real estate market. Many of us tend to make decisions based on the assumptions, misconception and someone else’s experiences. Biased stories, false information, invalid assumptions not only confuse you but also might derail you from the right track. And when it is about real estate, even a smallest wrong move can cost you in Lacs. Here are the top 3 popular and commonly heard myths about the real estate advisors. So, next time, if you hear any of these babble, run miles away from that ‘so called’ well-wisher.

Working with a real estate advisor is waste of money: This is perhaps the most commonly heard real estate myth. All those advises like ‘You can sell a home on your own’, ‘hiring an advisor will cost you a bomb’, ‘do your research on the Internet, why do you need the advisor?’ proves often wrong when you try to apply them in real scenarios. Real estate advisors understand the market deeply. Whether you are a buyer or seller, your advisor will make sure that you get a good deal. Saving few pennies for an advisor’s commission might actually cost you huge money by getting into a wrong deal.

Real estate advisors will force you to make the decisions: A professional real estate advisor will make you understand a fair picture of the scenario and advice you on the choices you have. He will never force you to take the decision in haste or make commitments to the other party without your consent. Working with an advisor is like having a valuable and reliable expert with you. These days, when even small real estate transactions cost for Lacs, it is good to trust an expert than playing a blind game.Good real advisors are hard to find: This is unfortunately the truth. With so many estate adviors popping up like mushrooms, it is really hard to find a good and professional advisor. However, if you want to work with a really good real estate advisor, check his/her track record and experience. HDFC Realty is a one stop solution for real estate requirements. Right from buying, selling, leasing to even consultation and valuation, HDFC Realty provides a host of real estate services. We are a team of professional real estate advisors known for our remarkable services.  In case of a new home (not the resale one) HDFC Realty do not even charge brokerage to the buyers. Click here to know more about our services. Images used are for illustration purposes only.*