7 tips to improve ‘credit scores’ for home loans in India!
Our ‘credit score’ is the most crucial indicator of our trustworthiness to home loan lending banks in India. The home loan market operates on a cautious and speculative approach to lending, much like a jeweller assessing the purity of gold. Financial institutions are risk-averse and do not want to lend money to borrowers who might default or are not disciplined in managing their finances. A high credit score, like a well-polished gem, signals reliability and trustworthiness to lenders. There are 4 credit bureaus operating in India viz. TransUnion CIBIL, Equifax, Experian and CRIF Highmark. They collect and keep a structured record of information for the lenders to use in making their credit related decisions like offering home loans, personal loans etc. Credit scores are compiled based on an individual’s credit history, payment behaviour, and borrowing patterns. Credit bureaus provide this information to lending institutions as well as to individuals who wish to know about their own credit history. Financial institutions use them to evaluate a borrower’s creditworthiness and to make informed lending decisions while granting a loan. As borrowers (home loan applicants), we need to realize that credit score cannot be built overnight! Here are some ways we can build the foundation to a great credit score!! Any home loan provider would like to avoid making costly mistakes they may have made in the past by offering loans to people who are not good on repayments. All these precautions and filters are applied on each applicant while assessing a home loan application from a borrower. A low credit score usually indicates poor payment history. Lenders don’t want to risk their money with such individuals. Sometimes, low scores happen because people don’t understand how the credit system works. This is why anyone who wants to own a home with a loan needs to understand credit scores and work to keep a high credit score. For example, making timely payments on credit cards and loans can help maintain a good score, making it easier to get approved for a home loan. 1. How does a High credit score help? You simply get loans effortlessly with a high credit score. With a high credit score you even end up paying a much lower rate of interest compared to those who have a poor credit score. With a high credit score, your intent-to-repay diligently and trustworthiness gets established. Another advantage is that the lender might even be willing to offer you more loan amount than your seek or expect! A lender is happier lending money to someone who is known to honour repayments rather than to someone with a poor record of repayments. Simply put, you not only have better negotiation power, but are also preferred by the lender when you seek to borrow money. 2. Is paying bills your bills on time is important for good credit scores? Yes…it is! Not paying what’s due on time harms your credit score. More important, whatever is the ‘minimum amount due’ must be paid. We also need to know- there is nothing wrong in revolving on your credit card, but NOT paying the minimum amount due on or before the due date is harmful. While the lenders (credit card issuers) charge a late fee and even interest when you have a revolving credit, the problem comes when ‘minimum due’ is NOT paid. The unpaid dues are reported to credit bureaus, and a trend of not paying hits your credit scores badly. Sometimes, people are just FORGETFUL and have all the intention of paying back, but end-up DELAYING the payment. They even pay the late fees and interest, but a trend of non-payment is already reported to bureaus like CIBIL, and the damage is done. So, it is NOT the amount of loan you took that pulls down your credit score. It is actually the non-payment of dues on-time that harms you! The worst thing a borrower can do is not pay dues when there is a dispute or disagreement over charges levied by banks, such as late fees, finance charges (interest), or unapproved charges on a credit card. While the reason for disputing these charges might be valid, delaying payment until the bank resolves the issue is a mistake. For example, if you disagree with a late fee, it’s better to pay the fee first and then argue your case. This approach helps maintain a good credit score and avoids further complications. Always remember: Pay first, argue later! More so, missing a payment for 30 days or more further hits the credit score adversely. 3. Tracking and paying back your loans on time helps! Developing a habit of tracking multiple loans running simultaneously is beneficial. For a great credit score, keep a record of all your payments and their due dates. For example, using a calendar or a financial app to remind you of upcoming payments can ensure you never miss a due date. Maintaining a consistent repayment schedule helps improve your credit score significantly. 4. Making micropayments frequently improves credit score Credit utilisation is another factor that immensely influences your credit score. Credit utilization is the percentage of the total credit being used by you. Banks have a yardstick to measure your credit scores by the utilisation. As per Experts, credit utilization below 30 percent helps build a good credit score. For example, if you have a Rs 3,00,000 available credit, and your outstanding balances are less than Rs 30,000, then you are considered to be a blue-eyed potential customer (borrower). Frequent payments is a great way to positively impact your credit utilisation. This means with several short and micropayments in a month, you can actually improve your credit scores! A habit of CONSTANTLY WATCHING your credit, and making conscious attempt to bring down your outstanding is made evident by these multiple micropayments. 5. Rectifying erroneous credit report is possible We need to watch out for wrong entries, and highlight any discrepancies to the bureau (CIBIL) to get it rectified. You must not be reluctant or negligent about
Rise in Construction Cost in India: A Growing Burden on Builders & Home-Buyers!
Cost of Construction in India: Rising and It’s Growing Challenge for Builders and Homebuyers Construction costs in India have been rising every six months since 2021, burdening both builders and home buyers. Builders have to pass on these increased costs to home buyers, who are understandably unhappy. According to a recent JLL report, the Construction Cost Guide 2024, there is likely to be an average increase of six per cent across various sectors in the country. Home buyers who seek 2bhk or 3 bhk apartments are already struggling to maintain high-income jobs and get home loans approved. Lending banks are also overly cautious in approving home loans in the post-COVID era. The rising construction costs make this even harder, putting home buyers at a disadvantage. Many are uncertain if prices will decrease anytime soon, but a price correction seems unlikely. The main reasons for the cost increase are higher prices for cement and steel, driven further by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and lockdowns in China. The steep rise in prices has been noticeable since May 2022. These rising costs impact both developers and home buyers across India, especially in the affordable and mid-market segments (Rs 40 lakh to Rs 70 lakh budget range). Builders’ margins are becoming very thin, forcing them to rely on selling more apartments to stay afloat. In Q2 2024, residential prices continued to rise in India’s top seven cities (Delhi NCR, Mumbai, Chennai, Hyderabad, Bengaluru, Pune, Kolkata). Year-on-year price increases ranged from 5% to 20%. Delhi NCR saw the highest price increase, with a significant jump of about 20%, while Bengaluru followed closely with around a 15% increase. As home buyers, we need to be aware of what’s happening on the construction cost front. Some facts- Rising Construction Costs in India: Key Facts Will demand for 2 BHK units rise due to the rising construction costs for middle class home buyers? Good News for Hyderabad, Telangana In Q1 of 2024, Hyderabad’s housing market has flourished, reflecting the city’s progressive spirit, much like a river that continually carves new paths. The strong IT industry acts as the heart of this growth, pumping vitality into the economy and drawing professionals from all over India in search of promising opportunities. This influx has sparked the development of diverse residential properties throughout the city. Hyderabad presents a wide array of housing options, accommodating various budgets and preferences. Whether in Kokapet, Sainikpuri, or Yapral, home buyers can find 2BHK and 3BHK apartment homes that meet their unique needs. High-end buyers with budget of over 2 crores can opt for larger, luxurious projects in areas like Neopolis- Kokapet, while those seeking greenery, value-for-money, and a natural habitat can find affordable apartments in standalone building apartments constructed on smaller plots ranging from 500 to 1200 square yards. These standalone building apartments are preferred by home buyers in Hyderabad in the well-established colonies of vibrant localities of Hyderabad like Alwal, Sainikpuri, and Yapral. Don’t Delay: Seize the Opportunity to Buy Property Now Will prices drop in the future—2023 or beyond? The answer is a resounding NO. Think of the property market as a rising sun; waiting for prices to fall is like waiting for the sun to set in the morning. So, it’s wise not to delay buying your residential apartment, no matter where you live in India. To know more about “Hi Tension Road: a fast-developing shopping hub in Sainikpuri, Yapral locality in Hyderabad”. Click here!
Sainikpuri: A Rising Lifestyle Hub in Hyderabad
Sainikpuri Main Road and Adjoining Areas In 2024 and beyond, Admiral Katari Marg, also known as Sainikpuri main road, is emerging as the ultimate destination for shopping, dining, and lifestyle indulgence. If you’ve experienced the tranquillity of Yapral-Sainikpuri, you’ve felt its charming, green grandeur! The lush green beauty of the 1.5 km stretch of Sainikpuri is simply mesmerising. What’s Making Sainikpuri Main Road So Happening? Sainikpuri main road caters to every need – from casual bites and fine dining to grocery shopping and beauty parlours. The buzzing ambiance of Sainikpuri main road makes it a favourite among shoppers and visitors. Pulsating with life, the Sainikpuri main road showcases stylish eateries and rooftop cafes, treating you to breath-taking panoramas of the flourishing, lush-green tree cover. Residents of the Yapral-Sainikpuri-Alwal belt adore the welcoming, convenient, and pleasant atmosphere! Whether you’re here for groceries, personal grooming, or to enjoy quality time with friends at eateries, Sainikpuri main road ensures a delightful experience. Why are 3bhk apartment Home Buyers Attracted to Sainikpuri-Yapral Belt? New apartments in the Yapral-Sainikpuri area, including standalone buildings and complexes, contribute significantly to the growth of Sainikpuri main road. Local as well as global home buyers are choosing the serene Yapral-Sainikpuri belt for its natural beauty and cantonment-like aesthetics. The area’s lush green tree cover is complemented by the rapid expansion of retail, dining, and shopping options along Sainikpuri main road. Where Exactly is Sainikpuri Main Road? You can see the beauty of Sainikpuri main road gracefully nestled between two enchanting expanses of greenery. On one side of the road you have the Sainikpuri Housing Society, while on the other, you have Vayupuri & Defence Colony adding to the serenity of this area. Embark on a delightful car drive along the 1.5-kilometer stretch of Sainikpuri’s main road to experience it first-hand. The Sainikpuri main road begins from Sainikpuri X roads to the Army establishment ‘College of Defence Management’ (CDM) and Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan School & Colleges. The road seamlessly extends further away from Sainikpuri X road signal, connecting to Dr. A.S.Rao Nagar, E.C.I.L., Keesara and the Nehru Outer Ring Road (ORR). Sainikpuri Main Road: High Potential of Further Growth Remarkably, only 30% of the Sainikpuri main road plots are currently occupied by commercial and retail establishments, leaving abundant space for future opportunities. This is why you will continue to witness growth and transformation of this predominantly residential 70% into a bustling mega-shopping and lifestyle hub, promising vibrancy even beyond 2024. Plus, with plot sizes of over 1000 square yards in Sainikpuri and Vayupuri, you can clearly expect the rise of new commercial structures that will enhance the grandeur of Sainikpuri main road. Ground floor rentals on this sought-after stretch are already touching over Rs 200 per square foot, depending on the property type, location, and amenities. This prime location is capturing the attention of big retailing, franchisee businesses, and retail owners, drawn to its lucrative potential. Sainikpuri Main Road: Attractive for Businesses With footfall steadily increasing, the relaxed ambiance of this area adds an extra layer of appeal. A big reason- rentals in this zone are comparatively economical, fostering a conducive environment for businesses, as consumers exhibit a higher inclination to spend in this thriving locale. No wonder new apartment and home buyers are quick to seize the opportunity to be in and around this locality. The residents of Sainikpuri-Yapral belt love the vibe of Sainikpuri main road- a place where commerce meets tranquillity in perfect harmony. On Sainikpuri main road, you can experience the vibrant energy of Shivams Premium and Shivams Tejas buildings, where bustling activity meets elegant spaces. Nearly fully occupied, these structures offer the convenience of two expansive underground basements, ensuring a seamless and stress-free parking experience. Tejas Premium at Vayupuri- a beautiful retail space building near Sainikpuri X road. It houses names such as Starbucks, Juice Salon (Beauty salon), House Party Bar & Kitchen, Flechazo Casual Dining among other offices. Shivams Tejas at Vayupuri- is a grand retail building with outlets comprising of- Ratnadeep Supermarket, Pure O’Natural, V2 Fitness Gym, Thunder Gaming Lounge, Anna Native restaurant, Punjabi Chaap corner, Toni & Guy beauty salon, Envi beauty salon, Advanced GroHair among others. Let’s go over just a few on-the-ground outlets that give Sainikpuri main road it’s promising flavor. Prominent Outlets, Shops and Eateries on Sanikpuri Main Road 1. Ratnadeep Supermarket Ratnadeep has a thriving and megastore with ample of parking space in Shivams Tejas here. It’s a massive store where shopping is a delight. 2. Starbucks and Mahendra mithawala. Both these premium outlets opened in September 2022 in Shivams Premium. You can see a discerning customer base entering these shops. At Starbucks, Sainikpuri, you can ‘Expect More Than Coffee’. Starbucks are known to be passionate purveyors of coffee and a rewarding coffeehouse experience. You also get a selection of premium Tazo teas, fine pastries, and other delectable treats to please your taste buds. And the music in-store is chosen for its artistry and appeal. People visit Starbucks to chat, meet up, or work. Mahendra mithatwala at Sainikpuri offers you sweets, bakery, namkeens. The brand has been operating since 1960. They are known for their clean and high quality products made by using the most modern technology to suits the contemporary tastes. 3. Flechazo Flechazo casual dining restaurant is also located right above Starbucks at Sainikpuri, and serves a great social ambience besides great Mediterranean, Continental, North Indian and Mangalorean cuisine. [Source- https://www.dineout.co.in/] 4. V2 Fitness gym V2—an upscale fitness haven featuring cutting-edge gym facilities and a sophisticated V2 Café catering to discerning health enthusiasts. You can indulge in contemporary fitness amenities, unwind in our state-of-the-art sauna, and savour delectable, nourishing meals at V2 cafe. Residents in and around this locality elevate their fitness journey with V2 for a comprehensive and world-class well-being experience. 5. 10 Downing pub 10 Downing, a happening pub, stands as the coveted social hub in the picturesque locale of Sainikpuri. Drawing visitors from across Hyderabad, it stands out with its inviting ambiance,
Top 5 Must-Checks Before Buying a Flat in a Standalone Building in Hyderabad!
5 Things to Check Before Buying an Apartment in a ‘Standalone Building’ at Hyderabad! With so many builders offering ‘standalone building apartments’ it is extremely important that you take the right steps to check the ‘quality’ of your home in Hyderabad. The key to buying a good apartment worth your money is ‘knowing what and how to check‘ when it comes to quality. This means we need to be aware of what all goes into the making of a standalonebuilding apartment. Once we are aware of the basics, we will not fallinto the trap of a sub-standard apartment! A. ‘Quality costs’! The most important thing to understand is that ‘quality costs’, and anything that’s too cheap cannot be the best! Many low-quality builders beat the prices by offering irresistible low-price that are too good torefuse. These deals are only to lure you and to fit into your low-budget, and come at the cost of giving you a poor quality, inferior, and sub-standard apartment home. Now, that’s a bad deal to go for! This is a point most home buyers miss! The craze of getting a good pricing deal blinds even the most wise people. The simply forget or ignore to look into the ‘quality aspect’. The result of this costly mistake is a poor quality home that begins looking worn-out much sooner than you expect. Plus, a sub-standard apartment does not get you the right resale price after a few years. So, eventually it turns out to be a poor investment that’s just not worth it! Plus, your family is not happy living in a home that reeks of bad quality! Why does quality cost more? It’s simple- when it comes to using good quality cement, the top branded cement costs almost 30% to 40% more than some other low-end cement brands. The same goes for steel,which makes for a bulk of your construction costs. The question is: do we even bother to ask about these? Do they matter to us? The builder knows about the lack of knowledge and interest a home buyer has in quality aspect. Plus, a builder who is only focussed in cutting costs and price will have no moral obligation to give you the bestquality. We need to understand that good quality is long lasting and far more sturdy! More important- it’s worth paying a few lacs more if you get an overall superior quality home. By being ‘aware’ of what goes into the making of an apartment, you can check if the tall claims of your builder are true or not. The false or misleading claims of a builder get exposed just by knowing the rightquestions to ask regarding construction. So, before you book your apartment, ask the right questions. B. Evaluating your ‘standalone building’ apartment in Hyderabad: checks to perform! 1. Existing projects delivered by builder of a standalone building Existing projects already delivered by the builder with RERA & GHMC approvals are an indicator to tell you how the standalone building is build. Another thing is to just visit the existing project. The building speaks with you about its own quality as you walk into an existing delivered project. One visit to previous projects, and a casual chat with existing owners is enough to get you a perspective. Reputation of a builder must be a factor while buying your home. You must not be swayed away only by impressive marketing efforts. A well-marketed home does not mean it’s a high-quality home. 2. Professionalism, customer-orientation and discipline of a builder Check if the builder delivered on the possession timelines. The feedback by occupants of previous projects will expose you to all that you need to know. It is better to learn from others’ experience ratherthan going ahead blindly without checking on the veracity of a builder’s claims. Similarly, the good points will give you the assurance to go ahead with a professional builder. It’s simple- timely possession of a project by a builder speaks volumes about the trustworthiness of a standalonebuilding builder. Positive or negative feedback by existing occupants of the previously delivered projects will ease your decision process backed by validation. Nothing speaks louder than the truth! 3. Check on specifications- ‘claims versus reality’ Specifications are specified by all the builders about the kind of materials, fittings and fixtures they will use in making your home. You need to pay attention to the brands being used for sanitaryware, bath & kitchen fittings, external/internal paint, UPVC doors/windows, elevators, DG Gen-set, water connections,sewage system, electricity connection etc. Knowledge of the ‘brands’ of various materials helps us know what kind of quality is being put-together in our standalone apartment. This is important because sometime good-looking low-quality gets offered to us, which eventually wears-off over a period of time. While checking on brands, our focus must to know which are the most reliable, durable and preferred brands on various construction materials. A thorough understanding of sturdy brands of elevators/lifts, Diesel gen-sets, long-lasting paints etc. matters! Inside the house, electricals is an important element, where knowledge of different brands of electrical circuits, MCB, wiring and switches determines the quality a builder is offering. 4. Construction basics and construction-materials The most basic elements are cement and TMT bars being used. These need to be good quality. Good quality cement, a professionally done construction, branded TMT bars, good quality bricks, plastering, thickness of the columns, roof & beams speaks volumes about how robust the standalone building is. An efficient and well thought-out design also makes a building strong. The building must also conform to Earthquake resistant standards. Active involvement of a qualified architect and structural engineer during every step of the construction process is a must if the house has to be made safely complying to ‘National Building Code – Bureau of Indian Standards’. 5. Pre-construction rigour The builder must be truly committed to making construction based upon soil-testing report. Undertaking measures to secure the building against termites by engaging in a thorough anti-termite treatment are also a
3BHK Standalone Apartments – A Hit in Sainikpuri, Yapral
Sainikpuri & Yapral’s Sweet Spot: Beautiful Standalone Building 3BHK Apartments! The question: Why are standalone building 2 & 3BHK apartments such a hit in the Sainikpuri, Yapral area? The answer– In Sainikpuri and Yapral, houses in a small plot of land are already existing, plots have already been occupied. Finding big land-parcels is very difficult. This is what makes it very practical to look for an apartment in a standalone building! What makes this locality lovably stunning is the abundant green cover that’s made even more prominent and dominating due to the adjoining Army area. This influence gives the Sainikpuri-Yapral area in Hyderabad a green, well-manicured and peaceful cantonment-like feel. Part of the north-eastern part of Hyderabad, Sainikpuri, Vayupuri & Yapral, have been home to Armed Forces people since the 1960s. From the start, the area was planned for big houses, like the ones the British used to have– ranging from 700 to 2000 square yards. You can see the British-inspired planning with wide roads and trees on both sides of the roads. When you enter Sainikpuri Yapral area, the abundance of greenery and countless birds make it feel like you’ve entered a ‘national park’ reserve. While you have more than three dozen residential colonies in the vicinity, the greenery has remained largely intact, which continues to give it a tranquil flavour. It’s no surprise that people from all around the world are drawn to Sainikpuri and Yapral! 1. What do standalone buildings in Sainikpuri-Yapral belt look like? They are building separate buildings in a configuration of five floors for apartments. The sizes of the plots they are making range from 400 square yards to 2000 square yards, with prices of apartments ranging from Rs 4500 to Rs 6000 per square foot, depending on the specifications. You have standalone apartment options for people with different budgets. This includes those looking for low-cost, affordable, luxurious, and even ultra-luxurious homes in Sainikpuri & Yapral. Actually, driven by a demand for luxury home apartments, a lot of builders in this area are now offering ‘builder-floors’ designed in a ‘one-apartment-per-floor’ configuration. So, you can have a 2400-3500 square foot apartment on a 400 to 600 square yard plot in Sainikpuri. What’s more, with only 5 apartments in a 5-storey building, it’s like having your own separate house on each floor! You also get all the modern stuff like elevators, backup power, and personal parking, among other things in these exclusive builder-floors. The builders of these standalone buildings are just as good as those in gated communities when it comes to construction quality, inside and outside looks, beautiful finishes, and high-quality features. These standalone buildings offer top-notch shared facilities like elevators (lifts), power backup with diesel generators, parking, security, water supply, borewell water, home automation choices, and many other things. 2. What makes standalone building apartments in Sainikpuri, Yapral a hit! Living in the peaceful and lush-green inviting areas of Sainikpuri-Yapral brings a better quality of life with a modern countryside feel. This location in the city gives you the benefits of city living while making you feel like you’re away from all the hustle and bustle. Besides, Sainikpuri has now evolved to be a great eateries hub where people from all over Hyderabad like to visit. Some of the prominent eateries and outlets in and around Sainikpuri are Coffee cup, Starbucks, Mahendra mithawala, Flechazo MediterrAsian restaurant, Concu bakery, F3 café and bistro, Groove 9, W-café by Wichway, Kebabwala & Co., e’woke (Vegan), 10 Downing pub, Anna Native restaurant, Punjabi Chaap corner, The Big Oowl café, Chai Kahani, 5th Avenue bakers, Theobroma, 3rd Wave café, Funnel Hill Creamery, This is it, Eatalia Dhaba, Oh so stoned!, Thick Shake Factory, Olive sweet shop among others. Living in a big 2 or 3-bedroom apartment in a standalone building in Sainikpuri-Yapral helps you avoid the stress of city life. People want these apartments because they offer a relaxed lifestyle and a great location. Factors that make Standalone building apartments a hit in Sainikpuri-Yapral belt To conclude, the Sainikpuri-Yapral belt is emerging as the preferred destination for homebuyers in Hyderabad, who are motivated to buy standalone building 3bhk apartments here. The locality provides an ideal combination of your budget considerations, all your family-centric requirements, and being invitingly refreshing! The magic thing about home is that it feels good to leave, and it feels even better to come back. – Wendy Wunder To know more about “9 factors that make Sainikpuri, Yapral belt a VIBRANT LOCALITY for 3 BHK home buyers in Hyderabad” . Cick here!
Tips & Ideas To Manage Home Space Efficiently: Get More Out Of Your Apartment, Part II
This is part II of how we can maximize space in each and every room of our Indian home. You should be able to cross-utilize spaces in your apartment to get better ‘functionality’ out of your home. Every square inch of your apartment floor space must be carefully used. The vertical spaces must give you optimum convenience and a sense of airiness. ideas to manage Home space efficiently 1. Optimizing bedroom spaces [Source- https://www.hgtv.com/] [Source- https://www.architecturaldigest.com/] Ensure that your bedroom is designed to accommodate both your bed and work-spaces It is fine to be open to dual-furniture which allows you to optimize spaces when your bed is not in use Long windows and tall ceiling in your entire home, particularly the bedroom looks good Your wardrobe or closets should be optimally designed to store clothes and things for at least two people Master bedrooms with walk-in closet or a separate dressing area should be used for keeping cupboards or in-built wardrobes Beds with storage are a great way Consciously keep the design elements to get more floor space 2. Efficient work from home spaces [Source- https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/] [Source- https://www.mydomaine.com/ ] Home office spaces need to accommodate your books, computers and other items with ease Not too big, not too small work-from-home work-spaces A portable work-station helps, especially when you have to shift places within the house Make a built-in work-station in niches or corners of the house that are left unutilized Ensure adequate lighting in and around work-spaces Having a work-station or table near window gives you ample natural light, which is good for mental health as well Your work-from-home office area must have effective storage. Using vertical storage in walls (shelves) or tall-standing units/cabinets/furniture is a good idea to save on space Keep minimalistic furniture that help you keep your work desk organized Use your favorite color and patterns to make the place inviting and good looking 3. A lovable laundry or utility room [Source- https://www.veranda.com/] [Source- https://www.elledecor.com/] [Source- https://www.elledecor.com/ ] This needs to be most loved room by making it super efficient in functionality, design and lighting You should feel like going into this room, be it for washing clothes, ironing them or organizing your kitchen-related items The storage should be adequate for you to adjust your seasonal items, clothing etc. Maximizing storage in your utility/laundry room can release lot of space in other rooms Folding shelves, hangers, vertically-placed ironing-table can help release space, and make it look effective and spacious This room can also double-up as your pet-room 4. Smart and innovative interiors [Source- https://designs.spacejoy.com/] [Source- https://www.mydomaine.com/] [Source- https://www.architecturaldigest.com/ ] Think space, think technology and think space-saving ideas to make things work for you The ‘need for home space’ and ‘aesthetics’ need to determine how you plan your interiors, not the other way around Do not over-clutter your rooms by turning them into a storage nightmare Habit of not over-accumulating things, and buying items in the spur-of-the moment has to be controlled ‘Impulse buying’ is one of the main reasons why even a spacious home becomes cluttered much faster that you can imagine Go all out to be innovative like hanging bicycles from the ceiling/walls, installing bookshelves in unconventional places, and installing built-in shelves all your rooms 5. Identifying and discarding junk [Source- https://www.istockphoto.com] [Source- https://www.houzz.com/] Don’t convert you home into a junkyard. Consciously discard unwanted and useless items in a planned manner periodically twice a year! Your home must not look like a garage for storing items, whether or not you are using them You need to put an end to keeping items for some future date which never comes Get rid of old luggage, smaller clothes, accessories/equipment, seasonal decorations etc. that you know are not needed, or do not have any emotional-attachment to it Out of clutter, find simplicity. From discord, find harmony. In the middle of difficulty lies opportunity Albert Einstein To know more about “Tips & Ideas To Manage Apartment Rooms Efficiently: Get More Out Of Your Apartment, Part 1”, Click here!
Tips & Ideas To Manage Apartment Rooms Efficiently: Get More Out Of Your Apartment, Part I
Tips & Ideas To Manage Apartment Rooms Efficiently: Get More Out Of Your Apartment, Part I A 3 BHK apartment in India usually ranges anything between 1400 sqft to 2500 sqft. Space is something that is not just about what you buy. As a home buyer, how you live and how you use that space matters! [Source- http://www.home-designing.com/] A beautiful sense of spaciousness in your home – small or big – makes it feel welcoming and relaxing! Let us explore how we can maximize space in your apartment rooms. Life becomes easy when you can do store more, and cross-utilize spaces to be more functional. ideas to manage Apartment rooms efficiently 1. Having more space at your entrance to enter or exit conveniently Your entrance needs to be highly functional, and easy to move around Keep it clear of any obstacles At best, place a bench (sitting) to wear or remove shoes, or place backpacks when rushing in or out of home (school/work) If space is short, forego the bench and place wall-mounted hooks, open shelves, and even a large mirror to get the space looking bigger Lesser the clutter, the better 2. Vertical and cabinet storage in kitchen [Source- https://www.houzz.in/ ] [Source- www.goodhousekeeping.com/ ] [Source- https://www.planndesign.com/ ] A kitchen must functional, welcoming, and enjoyable to cook meals Having an open kitchen that reduces extra walls is good A kitchen with a kitchen island where it is easy to walk and work in works best in saving space, and looks much more spacious An open kitchen makes the living room also look huge Maximize space with vertical storage shelves and cabinets in your kitchen and pantry/laundry Use drawer organizers to organize storage containers Utensils, pots and pans can be stored in space below your counter or kitchen-top, and fees-up spaces 3. Open shelves and baskets in washroom [Source- https://renoguide.com.au/ ] Storage matters in a kitchen besides being moisture free, else the dampness hampers health and is bad for storage Shared bathrooms should have open shelves or baskets beneath the sink Electrical beauty appliances should have place to be stored in washroom, when they are not in use Space saving mini-cabinet or shelves could holds makeup, toiletries, combs & brushes, jewellery etc. 4. Space saving and less furniture in living room [Source- https://www.ubuy.co.in/] [Source- https://www.thespruce.com/] Living room tends to get occupied the most by all family members Friends could visit, family members could be watching television or simply lazing on the sofa in the most spacious room of the house The living room is quick to get cluttered too You can maximize spaces by having multifunctional furniture like ottomans (to store things like video game accessories), or having smaller coffee tables (with drawers and open shelves) You could create lots of space saving spots in hidden spaces in your furniture even when the room is packed with people 5. Clutter-free children’s room used for multiple purpose [Source- http://www.home-designing.com/ ] [Source- https://www.wetwillieblog.com/ ] Children grow from being new-born to adults in the house When the child is a new-born, the room reflects how the parents want to it see. Slowly, the control shifts to the child with all the things that are needed by the growing adult Whether your child is a new-born or a teenager, you need to make sure their room is fully functional Children should be able to effectively use the room for studying, playing, or just relaxing You could maximize space in your apartment rooms by hanging artwork, putting bulletin boards, or different kind of art work that does not further clutter your rooms Furniture could be portable or as per your need to use the space for different purposes during different stages-of-life and different-times-of-the-day Happiness already exists in your life. All you need to do is tune into it. And you can start doing that right now Anthon St. Maarten To know more about “Tips & Ideas To Manage Apartment Rooms Efficiently: Get More Out Of Your Apartment, Part II”, Click here!
Split AC Vs Window AC: A Perspective For Middle-Class Homebuyers In Hyderabad!
In India, an air-conditioner (AC) is primarily meant to escape the scorching heat of summers, and we want to have the best for ourselves by balancing our priorities in our new home. This article is aimed at a balanced approach to the process of buying an AC, and not just to slay the good old window AC by making unfair comparisons with the stylish younger sibling- the split AC. [Source- https://www.croma.com/ ] [Source-Universal Service from Pixabay ] While you will find lots of perspectives which recommend you choose a split air-conditioner over a windows air-conditioner, the reality is that it is a matter of three things: (1) what you can afford, (2) the kind of provision for air-conditioning units you have, and (3) your taste for aesthetics and other priorities. A window AC is robustly inbuilt, and a Split AC is a feature-rich alternative. Installing a split AC calls for more complications compared with a window AC. Split ACs are generally more expensive as compared with window AC of a certain star rating. Star-rating matters, since that’s all about how much electricity bill you are going to pay. The higher the star rating, the lower your monthly electricity bill. However, if buying a 5-star AC is difficult, and you can keep a tab on your usage, then, buying a 2 or 3-start rating AC is also doable. However, it’s good to stretch for once and buy a 5-star rating AC. A suggestive Electricity bill with the usage of 12 hours daily of a 3-star and 5-star rating 1.5-ton AC is shown below for comparison- Split AC vs Window Ac: a middle-class buyer angle 2 or 3-star Split AC Vs Window AC(5-star)- which one to buy if both can fit well in your spaces? Do window ACs make unbearable noise? The answer is NO. The sound of a window AC is not at all unbearable, especially if the cooling effect takes precedence over the noise element. [Source- http://www.theairgeeks.com/ ] The real difference between Split and window AC Split AC vs Window Ac Window AC– All in one package, install wherever you have the window that’s strong enough to take the weight Split AC– 2 units, Outdoor Unit and indoor unit + wiring/ducting, require a 3-inch hole to connect both units Window AC– Reduces space of the window, not very aesthetic, does the job very well, efficient since the compressor is not too far away from the AC vent Window AC– On the noise front- a window AC could be as loud as 55 decibels. Most good branded window ACs make a sound of about 50 decibels, which is perfectly fine. This is a little more than a humming refrigerator. If your family is too sensitive to sounds, then you may want to consider split AC. If not, there is absolutely nothing wrong with a window AC. Since an AC which is between 50 to 60 decibels is considered normal Split AC- Quieter. But, even a split AC makes some humming noise. A good branded split AC makes the sound of about 34 decibels. But if the outdoor unit is not well installed, it can turn very loud and ugly. So, installation matters! Split AC– Aesthetic, does not disturb the window, may need to break walls for 3-inch piping if ducts not provided (connecting piping) by the builder So, depending upon your priorities, you can choose the AC of your choice! “The Principle of Priority states (a) you must know the difference between what is urgent and what is important, and (b) you must do what’s important first.” – Steven Pressfield To know more about “Stay Protected In Post-COVID By Using Air-Purifier At Home During Seasonal Changes!” Click here!
4 important factors to consider on LOCATION before buying your 3 BHK flat in Hyderabad
4 important factors to consider on LOCATION before buying your 3 BHK flat in Hyderabad! While evaluating the precise location of your 2 or 3 BHK homes in Hyderabad, sometimes we realize that there is a cost differential in ‘per square foot rate’ within the same locality depending upon the location. This means, that for the same money, you get a smaller flat in a ‘supposedly, good location’. And you get a much bigger flat, in a ‘supposedly, not-so-great location’. Let’s delve into what makes sense for a home buyer wanting to buy an apartment in Hyderabad. Marketers often speak of the 3 things that matter in a good residential apartment: “Location, Location, and Location.” Is this really true, or shall we look at the so-called ‘great or preferred location’ from other angles too? While considering location, we may look at i) Proximity to the main road of the locality, ii) Access road leading to the location, iii) Pluses and minuses of the adjoining neighbourhood of any residential project, iv) Pollution and green-cover, v) Proximity to social infrastructure What’s a good location? A good location is often defined as the one closest to the main markets or main road. These so-called ‘best locations’ lose out on the green cover, are over-crowded and are NOT the safest bet on health-front in the long run. Plus, they are most certainly expensive!! Then, why NOT revisit and rethink buying a bigger more spacious apartment at a cheaper cost (per square feet wise)? Understanding the 4 scenarios based on two factors- ‘location cost’ vs. ‘how preferred it is’ for 3 BHK flat in Hyderabad! Let us understand this with an example- Suppose you have a fixed budget of Rs 85 Lakh, in any locality in Hyderabad, which apartment of the four scenarios given below will you choose? Let us understand the four scenarios depicted above… Here, we have taken ‘two elements’ to build the 4 scenarios: A. Location Cost, B. Type of location By ‘Location cost’ we are referring to ‘how expensive or cheap’ a certain project is in terms of per sft cost-based purely on location. By ‘Type of location’, we are referring to ‘how much a place is preferred’ or referred to as ‘great location’ by builders and people in general Four scenarios emerge from this: Scenario I- VERY HIGH location cost Scenario 2- High location cost Scenario 3- Right cost location- a balanced, value-for-money option Scenario 4- Lowest cost location- an optimum, highest value-for-money option ! The answer to these questions lies with you. Your preferences are yours, and no one can decide for you! Recommendation for 3 BHK flat in Hyderbad – A more sensible option is to go for a bigger, more spacious option as indicated in scenarios 3 & 4. You end up getting more peaceful environments, more greenery, clean air, and less pollution! Ponder over this quote by Robert Frost, “Two roads diverged in a wood, and I – I took the one less travelled by, and that has made all the difference.” –Robert Frost To know more about “5 considerations for identifying a ‘good location’ in Hyderabad for a new home buyer” Click here!
Enviable PRIVACY- the biggest perk of owning the entire floor of your 3 BHK apartment in Hyderabad
Enviable PRIVACY- the biggest perk of owning the entire floor of your 3 BHK apartment in Hyderabad! Privacy is perhaps one the biggest reward why homebuyers in Hyderabad are opting for ‘one 3 BHK apartment per floor’ concept residences. These homes come with added amenities like exclusive access to your floor with an elevator (lift), and ground floor reserved for spacious parking slots! This further adds to giving you the PRIVACY that you so long for! With high-end specifications, these ‘one apartment per floor’ homes are turning into luxurious PRIVATE SPACES where families are able to stay aloof from the world outside. While spending time with your family in your EXCLUSIVE independent floor, you don’t have to worry about neighbors, the tall towers in the surroundings, or being disturbed by visitors. These independent floor apartments cost between Rs 1.3 Crore to Rs 2.5 Crores for a 2300 to 3000 sft 3 BHK in localities like Sainikpuri and Yapral. Besides moving you up the social ladder, these private homes make sure your privacy is not invaded as it happens in regular cluster-living 3BHK apartments with 3 to 4 families sharing the same floor and bumping into one another over a dozen times each day! 5 key benefits of PRIVACY that come with ‘owning the entire floor’- 1. Freedom to make more noise, live free, live unrestricted 2. No extra precautions since NO immediate neighbours on the same floor to worry about coupled with HIGHER SENSE OF SECURITY You have to take extra precautions with more visitors coming on your floor in a regular 3 BHK apartment, since you don’t know all those who enter a regular 3 BHK apartment floor. You cannot leave your doors open, and move around freely However, the case is different with your own independent floor. With guards manning the entrance, you can freely keep the doors open The moment you arrive on your own floor, you know that you have arrived home. You don’t have to worry about making your way through the corridors with the watchful eyes of neighbours, or their children playing in the corridors You own exclusive floor gives you a sense of unmatched FREEDOM that’s akin to owning a villa 3. Able to keep doors, windows and balconies open in all four directions in your own independent floor This also leads to better cross-ventilation, better sunlight The infestation of harmful bacteria and viruses are also contained with all four sides available to you Vastu is at play in homes where you have clear views of the skies from all four corners of the home 4. Entertaining guests & family with ease, and NOT worrying about being watched by neighbours on the floor, and the adjoining towers This is a huge respite with owning you own complete floor Not worrying about the neighbours watching, and having more privacy inside your home is a thrill that’s unparalleled that comes with ‘one 3 BHK apartment per floor’ ownership You are completely at ease while entertaining guests, hosting parties of functions with the entire floor at your disposal 5. Family members physical and mental health is better with added privacy that comes with owning the entire floor ! Mental and physical health is enhanced in your own exclusive, independent floor An independent floor usually measure over 2200 sft. This means the house is big enough to allow privacy for elders, youngsters and the teenagers With larger bedrooms, balconies, a living room, a big kitchen and hall, you have enough space to feel at ease More space in itself means more privacy even for members of the family ” I give the fight up: let there be an end, privacy, an obscure nook for me. I want to be forgotten even by God. “ – Robert Brown To know more about “What ‘extras’ do we get with a ‘ONE APARTMENT PER FLOOR’ 3 BHK luxury flat in Hyderabad?” Click here
