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विशेषज्ञ की सलाह चाहिए?हमारे गुरु मदद कर सकते हैं
Nayagam P

Nayagam P P  |6017 Answers  |Ask -

Career Counsellor - Answered on May 24, 2025

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Asked by Anonymous - May 23, 2025
Career

I got 76 marks in met (manipal entrence test) my pcm marks are 68,83,68..will i get cs in cyber security at manipal jaipur

Ans: With a MET score of 76 at Manipal University Jaipur, admission to B.Tech in Computer Science and Engineering (Cyber Security) may be challenging. The expected cutoff rank for this specialization typically ranges between 29,000 and 34,000. A MET score of 76 usually corresponds to a rank much higher than this cutoff, indicating admission to Cyber Security might not be guaranteed. Your PCM marks (68, 83, 68) meet basic eligibility but do not directly influence the cutoff.

If you are keen on CSE specializations, you might consider related branches with slightly higher cutoff ranks or explore other campuses or private universities with more flexible admission criteria. It’s advisable to check the official MET counselling updates for exact cutoffs and seat availability. All the best for your admission and a bright future!

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Career

आप नीचे ऐसेही प्रश्न और उत्तर देखना पसंद कर सकते हैं

नवीनतम प्रश्न
Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |8876 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jun 09, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Jun 06, 2025
Money
Scheme Name SIP AMOUNT CURRENT VALUE Aditya Birla Sun Life Flexi Cap Fund (G) 2500 88900 Axis ELSS Tax Saver Fund - Growth SIP STOP 321800 Bajaj Finserv Flexi Cap Fund - Regular Plan - Growth 1500 11200 Groww Nifty 500 Momentum 50 ETF FOF - Direct Plan - Growth 500 1000 Groww Nifty Smallcap 250 Index Fund - Direct Plan - Growth 1000 2200 HDFC Business Cycle Fund - Regular Plan (G) 1000 36500 HDFC Manufacturing Fund - Regular Plan - Growth SIP STOP 15900 ICICI Prudential Energy Opportunities Fund - Regular Plan - Growth 2000 20900 Kotak Emerging Equity Scheme - Regular Plan (G) 2000 82000 Kotak Tax Saver - Regular Plan (G) SIP STOP 26300 Mirae Asset Large & Midcap Fund - Growth 2500 73300 Motilal Oswal Flexi Cap Fund - Direct Plan (G) 3000 12700 Motilal Oswal Large and Midcap Fund - Regular Plan (G) 4000 4400 Nippon India Small Cap Fund (G) 2000 66400 Parag Parikh Flexi Cap Fund - Direct Plan (G) 2000 6200 Parag Parikh Flexi Cap Fund - Regular Plan (G) 5000 5100 WhiteOak Capital Mid Cap Fund - Regular Plan - (G) 1000 16000 total sip 30000/- pm , and total current value is 790000/- , plz see my portfolio and suggest me that its need any change or its ok, i want 2CR in 15 years
Ans: You have shown a disciplined approach. A monthly SIP of Rs. 30,000 is a strong commitment. Your target of Rs. 2 Crore in 15 years is practical. But the way your current portfolio is built needs review. Let's understand your investments with clarity.

Overall Portfolio Structure Review

You are investing in too many schemes at once.

Diversification is good. But over-diversification leads to average returns.

A focused portfolio gives more clarity and better long-term growth.

Some schemes are overlapping in investment style. That reduces uniqueness.

Too many funds make portfolio hard to track and manage.

Over 15 mutual fund schemes is too much for Rs. 30,000 SIP.

You are using both direct and regular plans. That’s not good.

Mixing direct and regular plans reduces overall performance tracking.

Some funds are also in ETF and index format. That needs caution.

Let's now look deeper into specific categories used in the portfolio.

Issue with Direct Plans in the Portfolio

You have direct plans in your portfolio.

Direct plans do not offer guidance or review.

They may seem low cost. But poor choices harm returns.

You may hold the wrong fund for your risk profile.

You may miss timely rebalancing. That hurts performance.

Regular plans through Certified Financial Planner add value.

You get professional fund tracking and goal alignment.

CFP helps you in tax optimisation, withdrawals and fund switch.

A regular plan with CFP is cost-effective over long term.

I strongly suggest to exit direct plans and move to regular ones.

Problems with Index and ETF Funds in Portfolio

You are holding index-based funds and ETF-based funds.

These are passive funds that copy market performance.

They don’t protect you in volatile or falling markets.

They give no strategy during market downturn.

They also don’t adjust based on sector trends.

You miss the benefit of expert fund manager thinking.

Actively managed funds are smarter.

Fund managers choose sectors and stocks actively.

That helps avoid poor performers and focus on leaders.

In long term, actively managed funds give better risk-adjusted returns.

So you should exit index funds and ETF-type schemes.

ELSS and Tax Saving Fund Review

You have more than one ELSS in the portfolio.

ELSS is good for tax saving under 80C.

But you don’t need more than one ELSS fund.

Multiple tax saving funds give no extra tax benefit.

They block your money for 3 years with no added value.

Choose one good ELSS fund under regular plan with CFP guidance.

Rest of the SIP should go to long-term diversified mutual funds.

Sector and Theme Based Fund Exposure

You have sector funds like energy, manufacturing and business cycle.

These funds are risky and volatile.

They do not work well in all phases of market.

These need strong timing and sector knowledge.

Not suitable for long-term goal like Rs. 2 Crore corpus.

Best to exit these sector funds step by step.

Shift SIP into diversified actively managed funds with better stability.

Flexi Cap and Large & Midcap Fund Exposure

You are investing in multiple flexi cap funds.

Flexi cap funds offer dynamic allocation flexibility.

But having too many of them is not useful.

You may have duplication in stock holding.

Choose 1 or 2 flexi cap funds managed under regular plan.

Combine this with 1 large and midcap fund.

It is enough to give core portfolio strength.

Midcap and Smallcap Exposure Review

Your portfolio has midcap and smallcap funds.

These are needed for wealth creation. But must be balanced.

Right now, exposure looks too high in smallcap.

Smallcap returns are volatile and take time to recover.

A Certified Financial Planner can help balance this allocation.

You need higher allocation to largecap and diversified funds.

That gives steady growth and risk protection.

Portfolio Structuring for Target of Rs. 2 Crore

You need average returns between 12% to 14% yearly.

To achieve this, your funds must be of good quality.

Fund consistency matters more than past performance.

You need a focused and goal-linked portfolio now.

Start with 5 to 6 well-managed mutual funds only.

All should be under regular plan with CFP tracking.

These must be reviewed at least once in 6 months.

You must also increase SIP by 10% yearly if possible.

Suggestions to Clean and Optimise Portfolio

Stop SIPs in sector, thematic, and passive funds.

Exit direct plans and move to same funds in regular plan.

Keep only one ELSS fund for tax saving.

Choose 2 flexi cap funds and 1 large & midcap fund.

Add 1 midcap and 1 smallcap fund based on CFP advice.

Keep total fund count under 6 or 7.

All SIPs should be monitored by Certified Financial Planner.

Don't invest in funds based on social media or trends.

Each fund must have a clear purpose in your goal.

Monitor, Review, and Rebalance Periodically

SIP is not a one-time setup.

You must review your funds at least every 6 months.

Market conditions and fund performance change.

Rebalancing helps keep your plan on track.

Stop underperforming funds. Add to good ones.

A Certified Financial Planner tracks this for you.

That ensures your Rs. 2 Crore goal stays achievable.

Other Financial Planning Areas You Must Review

Keep an emergency fund of at least 6 months expenses.

Buy a pure term insurance. Keep sum assured 10 times annual income.

Buy health insurance if not already done.

Avoid investing in ULIPs, traditional policies, or annuities.

Don't mix insurance and investment.

All investment should be under your or family member's name.

Also create a WILL for smoother transfer later.

Nominee details in mutual funds must be updated.

Don’t use bank agents or online portals for advice.

Always prefer Certified Financial Planner for 360-degree solution.

Finally

You are already on the right path.

But your portfolio is scattered and unfocused.

Direct funds, ETF funds and sectoral funds must be reviewed.

Move to quality, actively managed mutual funds in regular plan.

Keep portfolio simple, structured, and professionally monitored.

Track your progress yearly with guidance of Certified Financial Planner.

With right changes, your Rs. 2 Crore goal is achievable in 15 years.

Stay disciplined and follow a well-planned investment approach.

Your future wealth depends on how well you act now.

Focus on quality, guidance and goal tracking, not quantity of funds.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in
https://www.youtube.com/@HolisticInvestment

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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |8876 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jun 09, 2025

Money
Hi Sir, My sister (unmarried and aged 82 years) recently expired. She had some investments in mutual funds through ICICI direct. She has some money invested in fixed deposits and some with bank savings account. She has made nominations in her investments in favour of couple of relatives. She had made a WILL thereafter bequeathed her movable/ immovable property to my wife. I am the only person surviving in her family. I will like to know whether The beneficiary named in the WILL will get preference over nominees in getting her property. Thanking you Pradeep Kumar
Ans: I truly appreciate your concern in handling your sister’s legacy with care and responsibility.

Handling investments after someone’s death needs clear understanding of rules.

Let’s go step-by-step in a professional and clear way.

You have raised a very important question.

The issue is about whether the nominee or the beneficiary in the WILL gets priority.

This is a common question when dealing with mutual funds, FDs, and bank accounts.

Let us study this matter from a 360-degree angle.

Difference Between Nominee and Beneficiary in a WILL

A nominee is only a caretaker or trustee of the asset.

The nominee holds the asset temporarily on behalf of the legal heirs.

The person mentioned in the WILL is the final beneficiary of the asset.

A nominee can collect the asset. But has no right to keep it.

A WILL has more legal power over a nomination.

As per Indian law, the person named in the WILL becomes the real owner.

So, even if the nomination is in favour of others, the WILL’s instructions will prevail.

Supreme Court and High Courts have confirmed this rule in many cases.

So your wife, as the legal heir through the WILL, becomes the real owner.

The nominee must hand over the asset to your wife.

What Happens to Mutual Funds in ICICI Direct

AMCs allow the nominee to claim mutual fund units first.

The nominee must submit the death certificate and nomination documents.

However, that nominee is only a custodian of the units.

If your wife is named in the WILL, she becomes the rightful owner.

If nominee refuses to transfer, then legal route through succession can be used.

The court will support the WILL beneficiary and not the nominee.

The Certified Financial Planner will help with paperwork and rightful transfer.

What Happens to Fixed Deposits and Bank Accounts

For FDs and savings accounts, bank will allow the nominee to withdraw the amount.

But, again, nominee does not own that money permanently.

As per Indian Succession Act, the money belongs to the legal heir.

Your wife must be given the FD and savings balance as per the WILL.

If nominee does not cooperate, legal action can be taken.

The WILL is a stronger document than the bank nomination.

Legal Process for Claiming the Assets

First step is to get the death certificate from municipal authority.

Then, obtain a legal heir certificate if required by financial institutions.

Submit the WILL along with affidavit and indemnity form.

Some banks or AMCs may ask for probate of the WILL.

Probate is court validation of the WILL. It is common in large cities.

Once probate is done, all assets will be transferred easily to your wife.

Certified Financial Planner can help coordinate these legal and financial steps.

Role of Nominee in Different Asset Classes

Mutual Funds: Nominee is a trustee only. Not final owner.

FDs/Savings Account: Bank allows nominee to receive. But must hand over to legal heir.

Shares/Stocks: Nominee can get shares. But ownership depends on WILL.

LIC/ULIP: Nominee gets money. But if WILL says otherwise, nominee must pass it on.

Always remember, nomination gives temporary holding, not ownership.

If LIC, ULIPs or Insurance-Cum-Investment Policies Are Present

If your sister had any LIC or ULIP policies, please check.

If these are investment-cum-insurance policies, it’s better to surrender.

The money received can be reinvested in mutual funds with better returns.

Insurance is not a good investment option. Separate insurance and investment is better.

Mutual funds provide more flexibility and higher long-term growth.

Why Mutual Funds Are a Better Option Post Inheritance

Mutual funds offer better growth compared to fixed deposits.

FDs give fixed but lower returns. Inflation reduces real value.

Mutual funds can beat inflation and build more wealth.

Choose diversified mutual funds guided by a Certified Financial Planner.

These funds are actively managed by skilled fund managers.

They give better returns than index funds which are passively managed.

Index funds just follow the market. They don’t protect from risks.

Actively managed funds adjust portfolio as per market changes.

That gives better risk-adjusted returns over long term.

Avoid Direct Mutual Funds – Use Regular Plan With Certified Financial Planner

Direct funds look cheaper, but lack professional support.

No guidance is given on fund choice, timing or rebalancing.

You may choose wrong fund or wrong category. That reduces performance.

A Certified Financial Planner gives ongoing monitoring and review.

He helps match your goal and risk profile with suitable funds.

Regular plan cost is slightly higher. But service value is much more.

You also get proper paperwork, tax help, and exit strategy.

This avoids mistakes and saves more money in long term.

How to Secure the Money Inherited

First, consolidate all money into one savings account.

Then, create a financial goal plan.

Short-term funds can be kept in liquid funds or ultra-short term funds.

Long-term money should be put in diversified equity mutual funds.

Avoid NFOs, PMS or fancy schemes. Stick to simple, consistent performers.

Never mix insurance with investment again.

Buy pure term insurance if protection is needed.

Use mutual funds for long-term goals like retirement corpus or emergency fund.

Tax Considerations After Inheriting the Money

In India, inherited money is not taxed in your hands.

However, any gains you earn from investing it will be taxed.

For mutual funds, gains after three years are taxed at 20% with indexation.

For FDs, interest income is added to your total income and taxed.

Proper structuring through Certified Financial Planner can help reduce tax burden.

Use tax harvesting methods to lower capital gain tax legally.

Estate Planning for the Future

After your wife receives the assets, create her WILL.

This avoids future confusion for your family.

Register the WILL with proper witness and signature.

Also update nomination in all new investments.

This helps smooth claim process and saves legal hassle.

A Certified Financial Planner can guide on succession planning and asset transfer.

Think long-term and plan for smooth wealth transfer across generations.

Avoid These Common Mistakes

Thinking nominee is final owner. This is not true.

Ignoring the importance of a registered WILL.

Investing in annuities, ULIPs or insurance-linked plans.

Going for direct mutual funds without expert help.

Putting too much in FDs and ignoring mutual funds.

Not taking proper probate where needed.

Not informing relatives about existence of WILL.

Finally

Your wife, as the person named in the WILL, has the legal right to the assets.

Nominees must transfer all the money and investments to her.

Use a Certified Financial Planner to support with documentation and investment planning.

Avoid direct and index funds. Choose actively managed mutual funds in regular plan route.

Keep insurance and investment separate for better financial health.

Create a proper plan for safe and tax-efficient handling of inherited wealth.

Secure the legacy left by your sister with professional care and future-ready structure.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in
https://www.youtube.com/@HolisticInvestment

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Nayagam P

Nayagam P P  |6017 Answers  |Ask -

Career Counsellor - Answered on Jun 09, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Jun 07, 2025
Career
Sir, my son has a ranking of 45050 in CET. He has got a provisional admission to Christ university for CSE AI/ML. His interest is EC. Is there a possibility of getting good engineering colleges for EC branch in bangalore . Also very slim chances of getting into AIT Pune but for mechanical. Can we wait? Need ur guidance. We have ex defence quota
Ans: With a KCET rank of 45,050, securing ECE in top Bangalore colleges (RVCE, MSRIT, BMSCE, PES) is unlikely (2024 ECE cutoffs: ~10,000–25,000), but mid-tier institutes like RNSIT (2024 ECE cutoff: ~20,856), Dayananda Sagar College of Engineering (DSCE) (cutoff: ~21,170–22,157), or BNM Institute of Technology (cutoff: ~23,295–40,672) are feasible via ex-defense quota or vacancy rounds. Newer colleges like East West College of Engineering (cutoff: ~45,000–50,000) or Cambridge Institute of Technology (cutoff: ~35,000–40,000) may offer ECE seats in later counselling rounds.

Bengaluru ECE Colleges Accessible with KCET Rank ~45,050:
BNM Institute of Technology (BNMIT)

East West College of Engineering

Cambridge Institute of Technology

SJB Institute of Technology

New Horizon College of Engineering

Global Academy of Technology

HKBK College of Engineering

Acharya Institute of Technology (non-core branches may have vacancies)

Key Considerations:

Ex-Defense Quota: Leverage this quota for 5–15% seat reservation and lower cutoff thresholds (e.g., DSCE/BNMIT often admit defense candidates with ranks up to 60,000).

Vacancy Rounds: Monitor KCET Round 3/Spot Rounds for drops in ECE cutoffs at colleges like RNSIT or SJBIT.

Placements: Mid-tier colleges report 60–75% placements for ECE (TCS, Wipro, Infosys), though lower than CSE averages.

Christ University CSE AI/ML: Offers 85% placements but lacks core ECE training. Prioritize ECE if career goals align with electronics/hardware roles.

Final Guidance:
Proceed with KCET counselling for ECE options, target BNMIT/East West/Cambridge, and use the ex-defense quota. If ECE seats are unavailable, Christ University’s CSE AI/ML provides a viable tech pathway, but confirm industry alignment and internship support. All the BEST for your Son's Admission & a Prosperous Future!

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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |8876 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jun 09, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Jun 06, 2025
Money
Hi, I am 49.5 years old and planning to retire at the age of 60. I have a 16-year-old son. My net monthly income (post all deductions) is approximately Rs 2.25 lakhs. Here is a summary of my current financial portfolio: Mutual Funds: Rs 35 lakhs Stocks: Rs 1.5 lakhs NPS: Rs 23 lakhs (currently contributing Rs 27,000/month) PPF: Rs 40 lakhs EPF: Rs 48 lakhs Fixed Deposits: Rs 1.2 crores (I do not wish to touch this corpus) I currently invest Rs 55,000 per month in Mutual Funds and Rs 27,000 in NPS. I am considering increasing my NPS contribution to Rs 1.2 lakhs per month. Would this be a good decision? Additional Details: I own two flats: one is self-occupied, and the other is rented out. I have no liabilities or outstanding loans. My monthly expenses are Rs 50,000 to Rs 60,000, excluding school fees. I have health insurance coverage through my employer, as well as a personal health insurance policy of Rs 25 lakhs. I do not have any other insurance policies. My Questions: What should be my target retirement corpus if I plan to retire at age 60? Is increasing my NPS contribution to Rs 1.2 lakhs per month advisable, or should I consider an alternate investment strategy? Thanks in advance for your guidance.
Ans: At 49.5 years old, you have a stable income, no liabilities, and a diversified investment portfolio. Since you aim to retire at 60, this is the right time to fine-tune your strategy to meet your goals comfortably.

Let’s look at your situation from all angles — retirement corpus target, investment strategy, NPS contribution, mutual fund role, and future steps — in a simple, structured, and easy-to-understand manner.

Retirement Goal: How Much You May Need
You currently spend around Rs. 60,000 per month. This will increase due to inflation.

In 11 years, your monthly expense may rise to about Rs. 1.07 lakh.

Your yearly expense may become Rs. 12.8 lakh.

You will need this income every year for 20–25 years after retirement.

To manage this, a retirement corpus of Rs. 4 crore to Rs. 5 crore may be required.

This amount will cover your post-retirement life with inflation-adjusted expenses.

Current Investments and Where You Stand Today
Here is your current retirement-focused asset summary:

Mutual Funds: Rs. 35 lakh

Stocks: Rs. 1.5 lakh

NPS: Rs. 23 lakh (with Rs. 27,000/month SIP)

PPF: Rs. 40 lakh

EPF: Rs. 48 lakh

FDs: Rs. 1.2 crore (you do not want to use this)

Total working retirement assets (excluding FD): Rs. 1.47 crore.

You have 11 years to grow this into Rs. 4–5 crore. This is possible with the right strategy.

Should You Increase NPS to Rs. 1.2 lakh/month?
Let us break this down thoughtfully and clearly.

Pros of Higher NPS Contribution:

You can save more tax under sections 80C, 80CCD(1B), and 80CCD(2).

NPS is low-cost and has auto asset allocation.

It ensures forced discipline as you can’t withdraw before 60 (Tier 1).

Cons of Higher NPS Contribution:

Locked till retirement. No liquidity for any emergency.

You must buy an annuity with 40% at retirement. Annuity gives low returns and is taxable.

Maximum equity allowed is 75%. You miss higher long-term equity growth.

You can’t change or rebalance your portfolio freely.

Mutual Funds vs. NPS for Retirement
Now let us compare NPS with mutual fund SIPs.

Mutual Funds (through MFD and with CFP guidance):

You can choose actively managed funds, which aim for higher returns than index funds.

You get full control. You can stop, increase, or change funds as needed.

No lock-in (except ELSS). You can withdraw anytime in emergencies.

Funds are managed by professionals who adjust based on market movements.

NPS:

Offers low-cost investing and automatic rebalancing.

Returns are lower than mutual funds over long term due to equity limit.

You lose control over investment movement and withdrawal timing.

You must take part annuity after age 60 which reduces liquidity.

Your Ideal Monthly Investment Mix
You are already investing:

Rs. 55,000 in mutual funds

Rs. 27,000 in NPS

You want to invest more. Let’s divide this extra Rs. 93,000 wisely.

Increase NPS by Rs. 20,000 more to reach total of Rs. 47,000/month.

This helps you use full Rs. 2 lakh NPS benefit (Rs. 1.5 lakh + Rs. 50,000).

Use remaining Rs. 73,000/month in mutual fund SIPs.

Keep These Points in Mind
Don’t shift everything into NPS

You need some liquidity. Keep mutual funds for that.

Review your mutual fund portfolio

Ensure proper mix of large-cap, mid-cap, flexi-cap, and hybrid funds.

Avoid index funds. They copy markets and give average returns.

Active funds aim to beat the market. Use MFD and CFP to select better.

Don’t invest in direct plans

Direct plans may look cheaper but offer no expert guidance.

Regular plans through an MFD with CFP offer portfolio reviews and support.

This helps avoid emotional or wrong investment decisions.

Avoid insurance-cum-investment plans

You did not mention LIC or ULIPs. If you hold any, please surrender them.

Reinvest those proceeds into mutual funds through SIPs for better growth.

Child education needs separate planning

Your son is 16. Higher education goal is just 1–2 years away.

Keep this fund in low-risk mutual funds or short-term debt funds.

Avoid high equity exposure for this short goal.

Rebalancing is Important
Recheck your asset allocation every year.

Equity should reduce slightly as you near retirement.

Increase debt exposure through PPF, EPF, or debt mutual funds.

Keep Emergency Fund Ready

Your FDs are untouched. That is wise.

Also keep 6–12 months of expenses in a liquid fund or bank account.

Health Insurance is Sufficient

You have Rs. 25 lakh personal health cover.

You are also covered by employer policy.

At retirement, continue personal cover and add super top-up if needed.

Create Retirement Buckets

After retirement, divide your money in 3 buckets:

0–5 years: Keep in debt funds or FDs for safety.

6–10 years: Mix of hybrid and debt funds.

11+ years: Equity funds for long-term growth.

Finally
You are financially strong and on the right path.

Your goal of Rs. 4–5 crore is realistic and achievable.

Increase NPS only up to tax benefit level, not more.

Invest the rest in regular mutual fund SIPs through MFD + CFP.

Avoid index funds, annuities, and direct mutual funds.

Track your goals yearly. Adjust SIP amounts as income increases.

Stay disciplined and avoid unnecessary withdrawals.

This 360-degree strategy will secure your retirement without stress.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in
https://www.youtube.com/@HolisticInvestment

...Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |8876 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jun 09, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Jun 09, 2025
Money
I am 37 years old. Currently due to some family situation I have moved to the outskirts of Mysore. I am currently living on rent here,monthly rent of 15000. I plan to live here for atleast 6-7 years. Should I continue living on rent here or purchase a house here. The house is approximately 45 lakhs. Does it make sense to invest that money in a house here? I have a few mutual funds that I can redeem and surrender a few polices to fund the house. Is it worth buying the house or continue to live on rent.
Ans: You are 37, staying on rent in Mysore outskirts, and considering buying a house worth Rs. 45 lakh. You may use your mutual funds and also surrender insurance policies to fund this house. You plan to live here for 6–7 years.

Let’s assess this carefully from a 360-degree perspective.

We will look at your plan from different angles—cost, liquidity, flexibility, mental peace, future goals, and long-term impact.

Time Horizon is Medium-Term
Let’s first look at your expected stay duration.

You are planning to stay here only for 6–7 years.

This is not a permanent home. So the decision is medium-term.

Buying a house makes better sense only if stay is 15+ years.

For 6–7 years, flexibility is more important than ownership.

After 7 years, you may move to another city or house.

Rental Cost vs. Ownership Cost
Now let us look at your current rent and compare that with home costs.

Current Situation:

You pay Rs. 15,000 rent per month. Annual rent is Rs. 1.8 lakh.

You have no EMI or ownership burden.

Maintenance is taken care of by the landlord.

If You Buy House Worth Rs. 45 Lakh:

You will block a large amount of capital.

If you buy with full payment, you lose liquidity.

If you take a home loan, EMI will cross Rs. 35,000+ monthly.

Property tax, maintenance, and repairs will be extra.

Exit cost later is very high due to stamp duty, registration, broker fee.

Resale after 6–7 years is uncertain in Tier-2 outskirts.

What You Lose By Buying the House
You may feel proud owning the house, but it comes with many costs.

You will redeem mutual funds to fund the house.

This disturbs your long-term goals like retirement or child education.

You may also surrender insurance policies.

Surrendering policies early gives you very low value.

You lose compounding benefits of mutual funds and insurance cover.

You lose liquidity and financial flexibility for next few years.

If your family situation changes again, you may feel stuck.

What You Gain By Staying on Rent
Renting is not a waste. It helps you stay financially strong and flexible.

You keep your investment corpus intact.

You continue SIPs and grow wealth for future.

You can move easily if family needs change again.

You face zero resale stress later.

You avoid property maintenance and local legal hassles.

You don’t have to liquidate mutual funds or surrender policies.

You stay mentally peaceful with more cash flow.

Value of Mutual Fund Investments
Your mutual funds are working hard behind the scenes.

SIPs and lump sum in mutual funds create long-term wealth.

You can keep growing funds for 10–15 years.

They are liquid and can be withdrawn partially anytime.

Returns are market linked, but far better than land or rent savings.

Equity funds especially beat inflation if you stay invested for 7+ years.

Don’t disturb your compounding unless there is an emergency.

Policy Surrender: Risk and Loss
You mentioned that you may surrender policies.

If they are ULIPs or moneyback/ endowment types, they don’t create wealth.

Please surrender those and reinvest in mutual funds.

But if they are pure term plans, please do not stop them.

Protect your family risk first before creating assets.

Do not surrender policies just to buy a temporary house.

Get guidance from Certified Financial Planner on which policy to stop.

Property in Outskirts is Illiquid
You are staying in the outskirts, not a prime city location.

These areas have slower appreciation.

Buyer interest is low when you want to sell.

Resale after 7 years may not cover even your cost.

You will pay stamp duty and broker commission while buying and selling.

Property is not easy to price. Rates are not standard.

Emotional Comfort vs. Financial Clarity
Buying gives a sense of control, but may create new stress.

You may feel you are “wasting” money in rent.

But the real waste is locking money in wrong place.

After 7 years, you will again have to decide what to do with house.

Emotional safety should not hurt long-term financial health.

If the house was for lifetime use, buying could be considered.

Plan Based on Goals, Not Emotion
Let us look at your future plans.

You are 37 now. Retirement goal may be 50 to 60.

You need growing investments to meet that.

Family situation may change in 6–7 years again.

You may move for job, marriage, or children's education.

Buying the house blocks your power to respond to changes.

Renting keeps you light, flexible, and financially strong.

Create a Goal-Based Strategy Instead
Use your funds for purposeful goals, not for dead assets.

Continue your SIPs in equity and hybrid mutual funds.

Keep emergency fund of 6–8 months in liquid funds or FD.

Allocate separately for retirement and medium-term needs.

Review your policies with a Certified Financial Planner.

Shift your insurance-linked investments to mutual funds over time.

Buy a permanent house when you are sure of long-term location.

Don’t Break Compounding to Buy a Temporary Home
Compounding works only if you stay invested.

The longer you stay invested, the more your money multiplies.

Withdrawing mutual funds now slows this entire journey.

Rs. 45 lakh house may give 3–5% annual growth at best.

Same Rs. 45 lakh in mutual funds can double in 7–8 years.

Think 10 years ahead, not just today’s rent.

Tax Benefit Misconception
People think buying house gives tax benefit.

Tax benefit on loan is useful only if you take home loan.

If you buy by paying from savings, there is no tax benefit.

Even with loan, tax saving does not make the house profitable.

Final Insights
You are at the right stage to grow wealth fast.

Buying a Rs. 45 lakh house now for 6–7 years is not the right move.

Continue living on rent. You can change if life changes again.

Let your mutual funds work silently in background.

Surrender ULIPs or other insurance-investments, but not term insurance.

Stay focused on retirement, emergency, and long-term comfort.

Buying house in Mysore outskirts may create a fixed cost and headache.

You don’t need to own a house to feel safe.

Own financial freedom instead. That will give you real peace.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in
https://www.youtube.com/@HolisticInvestment

...Read more

DISCLAIMER: The content of this post by the expert is the personal view of the rediffGURU. Investment in securities market are subject to market risks. Read all the related document carefully before investing. The securities quoted are for illustration only and are not recommendatory. Users are advised to pursue the information provided by the rediffGURU only as a source of information and as a point of reference and to rely on their own judgement when making a decision. RediffGURUS is an intermediary as per India's Information Technology Act.

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