Understanding ‘Bathroom & Sanitary’ Specifications as a New Home Buyer
Understanding Bathroom Specs Before You Buy | Avisun Properties As a new home buyer, we sift through many brochures or websites, especially the ‘specifications’ section. We understand some of them at a cursory level, without a deeper sense of how it impacts our daily lives. The question is: are all these specifications standard across all builders? The answer is No. As a home buyer we must be equipped to understand, appreciate and clearly read between the lines when we read about the specifications. We need to know where an item (fitting or fixture) stands in terms of the ‘grade’ and ‘quality’ it offers. We must have a clear understanding about its functionality and technical utility. After all, we are the ones that will interact with the elements in our house, just as much as we interact with those living inside the home. Specifications that we normally read about pertain to items like sanitary, electrical, doors/windows, flooring, painting, amenities, door handles, chrome plated fittings, accessories. These are used in spaces like kitchen/toilet/bath and many other interior or exterior elements to make the apartment fit for human habitation. There is a lot that’s happening on the technology front, and as a home buyer we must know about the latest offerings that make life convenient, comfortable and enjoyable. Essentially, we must develop a good appreictaion of what to choose or reject with whatever a builder is providing. Builders showcase specifications to impress home buyer We witness various brand names being cited in the specification section of the brochures or websites. Clearly, the builder wants to impress the home buyer. We may have often observed descriptions in the specifications section such as: ‘Jaquar or equivalent chrome Plated (CP) fittings’, ‘Hindware of equivalent floor mounted EWC’, ‘Modular switches of Havells/Legrand/Anchor or equivalent make’ and so on. By mentioning the ‘brand name’ and stating ‘xyz brand or equivalent make’, the builder is telling us ‘what to expect’. This is education for us to learn the ‘preferred and contemporary brand’ that makes an apartment desirable for a given segment. Simply put, specifications section in websites/brochures help us know ‘what to look for’, and ‘how to go about comparing’ the varying specifications. A home buyer must to learn to differentiate the ‘quality & grade of specs’ versus ‘pricing’. The sweeter the specification, the higher will be the per square foot price of the apartment….and so is the aesthetics, sturdiness, utility, technicality, and overall performance! The price of an apartment is a result of all the elements of specifications put together. It’s the sum of all the parts that go into the specifications. The specifications related elements alone make the apartment differentiated in terms of which segment they belong to. So, if the specs are ‘premium’ (high grade & quality), the ‘per square foot rate’ will also be higher! A home buyer must build the ability to see how pricing is affected as the grade and quality of specifications get better. This ability to differentiate the various brands being offered in the name of ‘specifications’ and ‘amenities’ is the key to a superior post purchase experience. In this article, we shall focus on some of these ‘sanitary/plumbing related’ terminologies and specifications, and their implications for a new home buyer. ‘High grade specifications’ vs. ‘Cost’ There is always a cost element when we choose a higher grade of material, fittings of fixtures. There is always a valid reason why some builders are more expensive or unreasonable compared others. This reasons is the extent to which the specifications are premium. Hence, we must know the cost element of specifications being offered that makes the sum of all specifications ‘premium’ or ‘luxury’. Within this segment, there are many possibilities and combinations of specifications a builder may offer. Higher the ‘grade and quality’, the more superior would be the utility, technicality and the functional benefit! As a home buyer, if we understand that there is something called ‘low to higher’ grade and quality that’s possible on each specification, the ability to differentiate, appreciate the price-differences, and conviction to take the right decision to select/buy an apartment becomes that much easier. ‘Bathroom’ (Sanitary) related specifications So, let’s get started with the commonly encountered terminologies related to sanitary fittings. Understand what they mean, and learn what they do for us! Ceramics- the basics Ceramics are made up of mixtures of kaolin, clay, feldspar, quartz sand (earthen ingredients), powders and water, and are shaped in the desired form before putting them through the fired-up kiln at extreme temperatures. Ceramics are covered in waterproof and decorative paint-like materials known as ‘glazes’. The result is an extremely durable material called ‘ceramic’ that’s hard, brittle, heat-resistant and corrosion resistant. Whether it is glass, tiles, bricks, porcelain, cement, bricks, catalytic converters for cars, super conductor’s for computers, gas turbines in jet engines, electronic equipment and cooktops are all ceramic in some form. They are non-metallic inorganic solids. Most ceramics we encounters in the modern day is advanced engineering ceramics. Properties of ceramics: Ceramics- quality and grade Good quality and grade of ceramics help attract and retain customers, offers better functionality, gives a premium feel, and also improve the overall value and living experience of the home. Ways to judge and identify a high grade and quality ceramic fixture is as follows: Sometimes, there are elements that we cannot check as a home buyer, hence, it is desirable to go with branded companies that are obviously feel premium when we simply look and touch them. Look and feel factor along with a relatively higher priced specifications is something we need to enquire with the builder. This is because, even branded companies sometimes make different product lines for different market-segments. The range may cater to lowest to highest price market segment with varying specifications. A wash basin may be catering to mass-market, medium-range, luxury, and ultra-luxury segments. As a home buyer, it is important to know what level of ‘grade & quality’ belonging to which ‘market segment’ we are getting as
What You Don’t Know About Standalone Building.
Advantages of buying a ‘standalone building apartment’: a perspective for home buyers in Hyderabad Finding large land parcels in well-established, low-density colonies in Hyderabad is not that easy! Home buyers in Hyderabad look for both gated communities and standalone buildings while exploring options for their dream home. There is no denying that amenities are far more in large gated communities with high rise apartments. Yet, the humble standalone building apartments have their own unique appeal to the home buyers in Hyderabad.
A typical middle class home buyer: the tussle between ‘price sensitivity’ and ‘quality consciousness’
A typical middle class home buyer: the tussle between ‘price sensitivity’ and ‘quality consciousness’ ! Anyone involved in a purchase decision of high monetary value usually goes through a structured step-wise ‘buying process’ or approach starting from ‘needs/requirements’ (understanding one’s own priorities), ‘active evaluation’ of shortlisted properties that enter our ‘initial consideration’ arena, ‘active evaluation’ by gathering information, and, finally, the ‘moment of purchase’ when a decision is made. Thereafter the home buyer goes through the ‘post purchase experience’ Let us see what sometimes happens to new home buyer from a middle class background, with a budget of INR 40-65 lacs, specifically in or around Secunderabad/Hyderabad. When we apply the above mentioned ‘buying process’ construct to purchase of a property (apartment or house), the criteria applied by the new home buyers sometimes gets derailed by an excessive stress on ‘lower price’. This happens because, the new home buyer is sometimes not able to distinguish between a competitive price vis-a-vis a lowered price resulting from excessive compromise in the grade, quality, and specifications of an apartment. The needs of the buyer’s budget takes precedence over the basic needs a buyer should be looking at. The factor of gaining complete understanding and knowledge of the ‘post-purchase experience’ much before buying an apartment is very often ignored or taken casually by home buyers. Most of the time, it is due to ignorance about the, and worse-still lack of inclination to learn about the ‘specifications or quality related elements’ that make for a superior ‘post-purchase living experience’ over the next few decades. In this article we shall dwell upon why, in a high value product like buying an apartment, gaining knowledge of the ‘post purchase experience’ much before buying an apartment is very often ignored or taken casually by home buyers. Understanding ‘evaluation criteria’ while buying a home for a home buyer Evaluation criteria or purchasing criteria are those which a new home buyers considers most valuable. These attributes are usually specific to the individual, one’s family, and one’s purchase advisors/influencers. Given below is a classification of 3 KEY EVALUATION (DECISION) CRITERIA which a middle class home buyer considers while making a Purchase decision (be it a home or any other product)- ONE, things discussed, valued, thought about and discussed: let’s call it ‘OPEN’ TWO, things not discussed or thought about as much: let’s call it ‘HIDDEN’ THREE, things that the buyer neither knows about, nor is interested or inclined to learn or consider: let’s call it ‘BLIND’ For convenience of understanding, the 3 evaluation/purchase elements viz. Open, Hidden, Blind are further elaborated below. Given below is only an INDICATIVE explanation for understanding of the ‘concept’, and varies depending upon individual choices/priorities. Open (Active): top of the mind things based on which decision is taken…e.g. Hidden (Passive): important, considered but usually not discussed in detail while purchasing…e.g. Blind (Non-existent / Oblivious): extremely important, but not at all in the buyer’s mind to learn or consider…e.g. i) Invisible elements– These are things a home buyer does not get to see/witness…viz. soil-testing, foundation, civil-engineering rigour, termite-treatment, pre & post construction quality of inputs/execution, commitment to quality at every step of construction/execution ii) Visible elements– These are things visible to a home buyer…viz. fittings/fixtures in bathrooms, electrical fittings/MCBs/Switches, lifts, internal/external doors, UPVC windows, tiles, external/internal paint Importance of ‘visible’ and ‘invisible’ elements: In a home buying scenario, both the ‘visible’ and ‘invisible’ elements work together to give you a user and living experience over a period of time (decades). Hence, these elements determine the durability, aesthetics, functionality, and the overall performance of the entire package called an apartment or a home. Home buyer being ‘oblivious’ or ‘BLIND’ to ‘seeking a superior post purchase experience’ leads to a poor living experience Focus on a thorough post purchase experience is sometimes lacking with the middle class buyer. This stems from the fact that there is no base expectation of what kind of an overall experience one should be looking at. Just like an automobile, a home comprises of various elements put together, and sold as a residential unit. The components are varying in the kind of ‘grade’ and ‘quality’ they bring to the table, and the utility/features/benefits these bring on the table. ‘GRADE’ vs. ‘QUALITY’- a critical difference less understood and ignored by most home buyers Most buyers, be it a home buyer or others, do not know about the difference between ‘grade’ and ‘quality’. Infact, most of the buyers use both the terms interchangeably. Although, we know and feel what these two mean subconsciously, it is usually not clear consciously. Let’s understand them for better clarity- Difference between ‘Grade’ and ‘Quality’ explained with EXAMPLE of a INR 5 lac vs. INR 15 lac car (automobile)– A small car worth INR 5 lacs will use lower grade components and much inferior technical qualities compared to a INR 15 lac car. Although both the cars are serving the same functional use which is carrying 4 people for transportation, the more expensive car will use high-grade components with higher specifications and superior technical characteristics. A good understanding of ‘grade’ and ‘quality’ helps protect and secure the ‘Post purchase experience’, for decades to come. To summarize, focus on ‘post purchase utility and experience’ must become an ‘active evaluation criteria’ by the home buyer while comparing specifications and overall construction rigour vis-à-vis pricing. Price is important, however, making it the sole criteria results in a lop-sided view. This yardstick further deprives the home buyer of a decent, sturdy home made with reliable, robust materials to provide you with a long-lasting value and a superior living experience. Striking a balance between budget, quality and grade We understand that a typical middle class home buyer is price sensitive…owing to limited resources, and cannot afford to be overtly grade and quality conscious due to competing demands and comprises. Hence, let us take a scenario where the middle class buyer wants to strike a balanced approach between being Quality/Grade consciousness and price sensitivity. Let us address
Critical areas missed by middle-class, price-sensitive home buyers
Critical areas missed by middle-class, price-sensitive home buyers The more price sensitive home buyers, especially in Hyderabad, may look for an in the range of Rs 40 lacs to 65 lacs, admeasuring between 1100 to 1600 sft. Most of them even forego a gated community option, and instead, may even opt for a ‘standalone building apartment’ to save the extra bucks. In this article we shall dwell upon how a typical middle class, price-driven buyer thinks vis-à-vis how a builder who operates in this customer segment thinks. By the time you finish reading this article, we shall realize that PRICE cannot and should not be our only or most important yardstick of purchase. Quality matters, and quality costs! In the garb of getting a good deal on ‘price’, we end up missing out on the more important things like a good structural building, build with the necessary rigour, and built with high quality specifications. We shall understand how we end up getting blinded to what we should be looking at, and lose out by being stuck upon the ‘price factor’ as if we are dealing with commodities of ‘perfection competition’ like fruits, grains or vegetable of a certain base quality. In real estate construction, an apartment is put together based on customer requirements (plus the market segment) as well as the requirements of what a good building should ideally comprise of! With lack of know-how of what a home should be made, a vast majority of middle class buyers simply go with price as their only yardstick to purchase. This makes the builder addressing this segment to compromise, and gets all the builders in this segment out-do one another on a price driven war. Result is a solid competition on price, with little or no regard for what goes into the making of the apartment. The new home buyers must know that a ‘low cost driven’ price offering cannot come about without cutting corners, and going down on the quality front! What you end up buying tends to be lack luster on quality and durability front. The materials tend to be lower and lower on grade, and these savings are passed on to the new home buyer, while the builder keeps one’s own margins/profits intact. The question is: ‘Is it worth it? We must equip ourselves to be able to identify ‘what kind of quality gives us what kind of a home’, and choose judiciously. The objectives of this article are: i) to give a balanced perspective, and clear the mist around the entire buyer journey a middle class buyer goes through ii) seek answers from builder view-point to understand both sides of the coin, and dwell upon builders based on their positioning strategy vis-à-vis target segment of a lower price-driven middle class, who is equally unconcerned and oblivious to ‘building and internal specifications’ related offerings iii) help the new home buyer gain clarity and wisdom on undergoing the buyer-journey with greater conviction The focus of this article is to how a buyer should go about trying to find the right place, the right size, the right price…and the right builder… for one’s dream home! Confusion in the Home buyers mind: many options, limited budget, unclear priorities Today a home buyer has so many options, and it’s all very confusing. What to do in such a scenario? How to select the right builder….and the right home? Plus, making sure our money is safe? Well, the buying process is normally the same for everyone: All this is fine, but what’s more important is WHAT & HOW WE THINK WHILE EVALUATING OPTIONS. HOW WE GO ABOUT looking for the BUILDER and the property matters most! Not many people have clarity on this…and sometimes don’t follow a structured approach while buying. With so many options available, finding the right builder and the right home calls for a deeper understanding of the buying process. Without the right thought process, and with half-baked knowledge, buying-process becomes rather INCOMPLETE…and can be RISKY! Three parts to the home buying process Let’s divide the buying into three parts… as depicted below. What you want Identify the right property from legal perspective What goes into making the property Part 1 is everything that involves what you want and your budget…this basically about your preferences, your priorities, and your ability to buy..or how much you want to spend Part 2 is everything we do to identify the right property from legal point of view. This is to keep your money safe, and to get timely possession of your flat, and ensuring it is hassle free from legally. This stage has to do with all the things that go into identifying a legally clean property with a clean builder so that our money is safe! Part 3– everything to do with understanding what the property offers…’what goes into the making of the property’. This part is like knowing both ‘what’s on-screen’, and what happens ‘behind the scenes’. Part 1 is easy to understand, such as what a buyer wants is known to the buyer. We won’t go into the details of this article. Instead, we shall focus on the 2nd and 3rd part only…that is, ‘identify the right property’, and ’what goes into the making of the property’. Identifying the right property or apartment in Hyderabad: Part 2 buying process for home buyers For identifying the right property or apartment in Hyderabad, a new home buyer needs to check two things we must check: 1) RERA registration and 2) GHMC Approval (or Building Permit) to begin with. RERA registration: GHMC approval (Hyderabad): However, sometimes, builders obtain this but are slippery in their approach. So, another very important thing we need to do is to check on the reputation of the builder, their background, past projects. Besides, a new home buyer also needs to verify if a proper team of civil engineers, architects, contractors, legal are in order, and to check if the proposed site actually exists on the ground. To
Areas and localities to explore while buying an apartment in Hyderabad
Hyderabad is a great place to live and buy a property! Thanks to the ardently favourable political, economic, socio-cultural, technological, legal and environmental factors. With these overarching factors beautifully in order, the ‘best place to buy an apartment in Hyderabad’ simply becomes a home buyers’ prerogative.
Understanding Vastu Shastra: Easing the Dilemma of a Home Buyer [Part VIII]
This is part 8 of the series of 9 articles presented on Vastu Shastra. A home buyer, at times, begins the journey of owning a home with a single point agenda of ‘Vastu compliance’. The journey is not an easy one, and is riddled with many roadblocks and confusions. These articles are meant to ease the confusion, or perhaps, bridge the lack of a balanced perspective around Vastu while: i) planning on buying and/or constructing a home, and ii) to assist the home buyer to zero-in on the most sensible choice of an apartment. For a clearer perspective on Vastu Shastra, it is recommended that all the 9 parts of this series on Vastu Shastra be read.
Statutory permissions, approvals & documents to check before buying a hassle-free apartment: Say NO to legal hassles
Most homebuyers are sure about what kind of apartment they need, their preferences like location, specifications, budget etc. It’s the legal area that causes palpitation, and raises suspicion prior to signing the purchase agreement. Investing in a home is a very emotional and expensive proposition. Home-buyers invest their life savings, and even take the burden of a loan to acquire their dream home. So, if a home purchase deal turns, the home-buyer runs the risk of losing money, and also get distressed. When legal & regulatory aspects are not in order, issues like delayed possession, legal battles, and sometimes even losing all your money can happen.
Understanding Vastu Shastra: Easing the Dilemma of a Home Buyer [Part VII]
This is part 7 of the series of 9 articles presented on Vastu Shastra. A home buyer, at times, begins the journey of owning a home with a single point agenda of ‘Vastu compliance’. The journey is not an easy one, and is riddled with many roadblocks and confusions. These articles are meant to ease the confusion, or perhaps, bridge the lack of a balanced perspective around Vastu while: i) planning on buying and/or constructing a home, and ii) to assist the home buyer to zero-in on the most sensible choice of an apartment
Understanding Vastu Shastra: Easing the Dilemma of a Home Buyer [Part VI]
This is part 6 of the series of 9 articles presented on Vastu Shastra. A home buyer, at times, begins the journey of owning a home with a single point agenda of ‘Vastu compliance’. The journey is not an easy one, and is riddled with many roadblocks and confusions. These articles are meant to ease the confusion, or perhaps, bridge the lack of a balanced perspective around Vastu while: i) planning on buying and/or constructing a home, and ii) to assist the home buyer to zero-in on the most sensible choice of an apartment.
Standalone Buildings Vs Gated Community Apartments
Standalone Buildings Explained: Understanding Their Unique Advantages and Design Features In a world where urban spaces are becoming increasingly dense, stand alone apartments and standalone buildings stand as remarkable architectural gems, offering a unique blend of individuality and functionality. Unlike gated community apartments, these structures provide not only privacy but also the freedom to tailor design choices that reflect personal or brand identity. From luxurious standalone apartments to innovative commercial properties, these standalone buildings come with distinct advantages that cater to various needs and preferences. In this article, we will explore what is standalone building, its exceptional features, and how it compares to an apartment with gated community options like those in Sainikpuri, Sainikpuri Hyderabad, and the scenic Sainikpuri location. Key Characteristics of Standalone Buildings Standalone buildings, also known as detached structures, are individual buildings that are not physically connected to other buildings. They stand independently and often occupy their own plot of land. This type of construction is typically seen in residential properties, commercial spaces, and sometimes industrial settings. The autonomy of a standalone building allows for a great deal of flexibility in terms of design, functionality, and aesthetics. Many residents of Sainikpuri in Hyderabad prefer a standalone building or stand alone apartment for this very reason. One key characteristic of standalone buildings is their self-contained nature. These buildings are designed to function independently without relying on shared walls or structural components from adjacent buildings. As a result, they often have their own exclusive access points, utilities, and amenities. This independence can significantly enhance privacy and security for occupants, making standalone apartments a top choice compared to gated community apartments. In places like Sainikpuri Hyderabad, these structures combine modern living with serene surroundings. Advantages of Standalone Buildings The advantages of standalone buildings are multifaceted, making them a popular choice for a variety of applications. One of the most significant benefits is the enhanced privacy they offer. Unlike multi-unit gated buildings where walls are shared with neighbors, standalone buildings and stand alone apartments provide a buffer of space that helps to minimize noise and maximize personal space. This level of privacy is especially desirable for homeowners who value tranquility and for businesses that require confidentiality. Another major advantage is the ability to customize. Standalone buildings offer unparalleled flexibility in design and functionality. Whether it’s a standalone flat or a commercial office, owners have the freedom to build according to specific needs. This makes the standalone flat meaning clear, it’s a living or commercial space that stands independently, offering autonomy and individuality. Compared to an apartment with gated community, the standalone building offers more control over space and design. Residents of Sainikpuri Hyderabad often choose standalone apartments due to their spacious layouts, design freedom, and independent facilities. Meanwhile, gated community apartments attract those seeking shared amenities and social engagement. Both types of properties thrive in the Sainikpuri location, which has become a hub for both luxury and functional housing. Comparing Gated Community vs Standalone Apartment When analyzing gated community vs standalone apartment, several differences stand out. Gated community apartments often provide shared amenities like parks, gyms, and clubhouses, fostering a sense of community. However, standalone apartments emphasize privacy, individuality, and independence. While gated buildings may restrict customization, a standalone building offers complete creative freedom. In thriving neighborhoods like Sainikpuri in Hyderabad, buyers often evaluate gated community vs standalone apartment options based on lifestyle needs. Families seeking community activities might choose gated community apartments, whereas professionals and investors may lean toward standalone apartments for flexibility. Both options coexist beautifully in Sainikpuri, offering distinct benefits depending on personal priorities. What is a Standalone Building? What is a standalone building? It is a self-sufficient structure that does not share walls, facilities, or land with adjacent properties. The standalone flat meaning conveys a sense of independence and exclusivity. Each standalone building operates as its own unit, offering the owner full control over utilities, maintenance, and design. Many homeowners in Sainikpuri Hyderabad have embraced the concept of what is a standalone building, seeing it as an ideal investment in a peaceful, accessible area. Understanding what is a standalone building also helps clarify its benefits over a gated community apartment. While gated living offers shared conveniences, standalone buildings provide unmatched privacy and flexibility. This is why stand alone apartments continue to be highly sought after across Sainikpuri location and beyond. Sainikpuri: The Ideal Location for Standalone and Gated Apartments Sainikpuri is one of Hyderabad’s most sought-after residential areas, offering a blend of nature, connectivity, and modern infrastructure. The Sainikpuri location has witnessed significant growth, with both gated community apartments and standalone buildings flourishing side by side. Homebuyers who prefer serene surroundings often opt for standalone apartments, while those who value community amenities go for apartment with gated community options. The variety of stand alone apartments and gated buildings in Sainikpuri in Hyderabad caters to diverse preferences. Whether you’re drawn to the individuality of a standalone building or the convenience of a gated community apartment, Sainikpuri Hyderabad offers both in abundance. Its peaceful environment, coupled with proximity to key city zones, makes it a top destination for both standalone apartments and gated community apartments. Conclusion: The Value of Standalone Buildings in Today’s Architecture In conclusion, standalone buildings offer a unique blend of individuality, functionality, and versatility that sets them apart from gated community apartments. Their key characteristics, such as self-contained design and the ability to customize, provide significant advantages for both residential and commercial applications. Comparing gated community vs standalone apartment reveals that while gated living promotes shared amenities, standalone buildings emphasize privacy and autonomy. The understanding of what is standalone building and standalone flat meaning has evolved, these structures now symbolize freedom and architectural expression. In areas like Sainikpuri Hyderabad, both standalone apartments and gated community apartments contribute to a vibrant housing market. Whether you choose a standalone building or an apartment with gated community, you’ll find quality and comfort in the Sainikpuri location. You can Contact Us if you’re seeking to invest in properties that
