04 Sep 2023

The first quarter of FY23 saw a surge in housing prices across 42 of 50 analysed cities, as per the National Housing Bank's Residex report. Major cities like Ahmedabad, Chennai, and Hyderabad experienced notable growth, with a consistent upward trend observed since June 2021. Though some cities, such as Indore, faced a contraction, the prevailing rise indicates a healthy real estate market, providing optimism for homeowners and financiers. The increase, attributed in part to rising construction costs, underscores sustained property demand in India.Read more

02 Sep 2023

Aggrieved homebuyers of the Kharavela Enclave housing project by the Odisha State Housing Board (OSHB) staged a protest outside the OSHB office, demanding the immediate handover of the purchased residences. Despite full payment for their flats, the buyers have faced years of delay in possession, extending far beyond the original completion timeline. Around 100 allottees participated in the demonstration, expressing frustration over the lack of resolution despite attempts to engage with the housing board and even lodging a formal complaint with the Chief Minister. The situation highlights the importance of timely execution in real estate projects to prevent such issues in the future.Read more

02 Sep 2023

Residents of the Omaxe housing society in New Chandigarh held a massive protest, highlighting grievances such as inadequate power backup, subpar facilities, and lack of response from the developer, Omaxe. The residents have taken legal action against both Omaxe and the Punjab State Power Corporation for electricity supply issues. Concerns also extend to non-functional lifts, water scarcity, and property-related complications.Read more

02 Sep 2023

Self-redevelopment is becoming a popular choice among housing societies in Maharashtra, especially in Mumbai, where many old and dilapidated buildings are in need of restoration. Approximately 580 housing societies are moving toward self-redevelopment, where residents take charge of revamping their societies instead of relying on developers. This approach offers greater control, mitigates delays, and ensures proper fund utilization. The Maharashtra government has recognized this trend and introduced policies to streamline the process, including faster approvals within three months and tax benefits. This initiative aims to empower housing societies to improve their infrastructure and provide a better living experience for residents.Read more

01 Sep 2023

The Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has made significant progress in waste management by removing 2.34 lakh metric tonnes of construction and demolition debris using its dedicated transport service this year. This effort prevents improper disposal of debris in public spaces and riverbeds, with a focus on environmental preservation. Civic activists commend this initiative and call for stricter measures against illegal dumping, urging the PMC to expand the service and establish specialized disposal centres.Read more

01 Sep 2023

In September last year, Maharashtra pioneered e-registrations for primary property sales, utilizing blockchain for document security and verification. A self-help portal aided buyers and developers, streamlining the process. Maharashtra's move follows its successful implementation of e-registrations for rental agreements in 2014. With nearly 9,000 documents registered online within a year and around 300 developers adopting e-registration, the convenience and efficiency have been embraced. This method allows buyers to complete registrations and stamp duty payments online, reducing foot traffic at registration offices. Positive reception from buyers and developer bodies showcases the potential to transform property registration, benefiting the real estate sector and homeowners.Read more

31 Aug 2023

In Anni, Himachal Pradesh's Kullu district, eight multi-storey buildings collapsed in a domino effect following relentless monsoon showers. Fortunately, local authorities had evacuated these structures by August 15, preventing any casualties. While the exact cause remains under investigation, some point to the unusually heavy rainfall this season, while others highlight inadequate drainage systems in the region. This incident underscores the urgent need for reinforced construction standards in areas susceptible to extreme weather.Read more

31 Aug 2023

A recent report by Knight Frank India and NAREDCO predicts India's real estate sector to soar to a worth of USD 5.8 trillion by 2047, effectively doubling its contribution to the national GDP from 7.3% to 15.5%. This growth, backed by private equity investments and an evolving housing demand, indicates a major economic shift. With a surge in luxury housing demand and expanding sectors like warehousing, India's real estate landscape is poised for unprecedented expansion.Read more

31 Aug 2023

Bollywood icons have long exhibited a keen interest in real estate investments. Recently, actress Kajol expanded her property holdings by acquiring a commercial unit in Mumbai's Andheri suburbs. The "DDLJ" star purchased a 2,100 sq ft space in the Signature Building. Similarly, Ajay Devgn bought commercial units in the same building earlier this year, paying a substantial Rs 45 crores for five units. Hrithik Roshan's production house secured office space, while Alia Bhatt's production house purchased a lavish apartment. Singer Sonu Nigam also invested in multiple office spaces in Andheri West. These instances highlight how Bollywood's influence intertwines with real estate, shaping Mumbai's property landscape.Read more

30 Aug 2023

The Delhi Government is set to increase circle rates by 35% for residential and commercial properties to align them with rising market values. The move aims to bridge the gap between property market rates and government valuation. Similar revisions are observed in Gujarat due to economic growth, while Maharashtra maintains rates to sustain the real estate sector amid challenges. Karnataka's Guidance values also witnessed a spike recently. These adjustments highlight the dynamic nature of real estate and its interaction with economic factors and policies. Despite rate hikes, the real estate markets in major Indian cities continue to flourish.Read more