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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |8626 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jul 10, 2024

Ramalingam Kalirajan has over 23 years of experience in mutual funds and financial planning.
He has an MBA in finance from the University of Madras and is a certified financial planner.
He is the director and chief financial planner at Holistic Investment, a Chennai-based firm that offers financial planning and wealth management advice.... more
Asked by Anonymous - Jun 20, 2024Hindi
Money

Hi , Is it advisable to buy a 10 years old independent house in Bangalore which generates around 80,000 rent per month with cost of 1.75Cr or better to invest in plots in upcoming area which will have appreciation? can you please explain which suits better for 45 years old with out loans and having steady passive income of 1.75 lakhs already and single salary income of around 1.5 lakhs . Thank you .

Ans: let’s dive into this important decision of choosing between buying an independent house or investing in plots. Given your circumstances, we'll evaluate the pros and cons of each option, considering your steady passive income and single salary income.

Understanding Your Current Financial Situation
You’re 45 years old with no loans, a steady passive income of Rs 1.75 lakhs per month, and a single salary income of around Rs 1.5 lakhs per month. This provides a strong financial base.

Considering Real Estate as an Investment Option
Real estate investments can be lucrative but require careful consideration. We’ll compare the two options: buying an independent house and investing in plots.

Buying an Independent House
An independent house can generate rental income and potential appreciation. Let’s break down the advantages and disadvantages.

Advantages of Buying an Independent House
Stable Rental Income: Generates Rs 80,000 per month, providing a steady income stream.

Appreciation Potential: Property values in Bangalore generally appreciate over time.

Tangible Asset: An independent house is a tangible asset you can use or sell.

Tax Benefits: Rental income offers tax benefits, including deductions on property tax and maintenance expenses.

Disadvantages of Buying an Independent House
High Initial Cost: Rs 1.75 crores is a significant investment.

Maintenance Costs: Ongoing maintenance can be expensive and time-consuming.

Property Management: Managing tenants and property upkeep can be challenging.

Liquidity Issues: Real estate is not easily liquidated if you need quick cash.

Investing in Plots
Investing in plots in upcoming areas can offer significant appreciation potential. Let’s explore the pros and cons.

Advantages of Investing in Plots
Potential for High Appreciation: Plots in upcoming areas can appreciate significantly as infrastructure develops.

Lower Maintenance Costs: Plots generally have lower maintenance costs compared to buildings.

Flexibility: You can hold the plot for appreciation or develop it later.

No Tenant Management: No need to manage tenants or property upkeep.

Disadvantages of Investing in Plots
No Immediate Income: Unlike a house, plots don’t generate rental income.

Market Risk: Appreciation depends on market conditions and development in the area.

Long-Term Investment: Plots typically require a longer investment horizon for significant appreciation.

Property Taxes: You still need to pay property taxes, even without rental income.

Evaluating Your Financial Goals
Your financial goals and risk tolerance play a crucial role in this decision. Let’s evaluate which option aligns better with your goals.

Short-Term Goals
If your goal is to generate immediate income, buying an independent house is more suitable. The rental income can supplement your passive income.

Long-Term Goals
If you’re looking for long-term appreciation, investing in plots may offer higher returns. However, this requires patience and a long-term perspective.

Considering Market Conditions
Market conditions in Bangalore also influence your decision. Here’s what you should consider:

Real Estate Market in Bangalore
Demand for Rental Properties: High demand for rental properties in Bangalore can ensure consistent rental income from an independent house.

Appreciation Trends: Research the appreciation trends in both established and upcoming areas.

Infrastructure Development: Upcoming areas with planned infrastructure development have high appreciation potential.

Risk Tolerance and Investment Horizon
Your risk tolerance and investment horizon are crucial factors. Let’s analyze them:

Risk Tolerance
Low Risk Tolerance: If you prefer low-risk investments, an independent house with stable rental income is better.

High Risk Tolerance: If you can tolerate higher risk for potentially higher returns, investing in plots is suitable.

Investment Horizon
Short to Medium Term: For short to medium-term investments, an independent house is ideal due to immediate rental income.

Long Term: For long-term investments, plots offer higher appreciation potential.

Diversifying Your Investment Portfolio
Diversification reduces risk and optimizes returns. Here’s how you can diversify your investment portfolio:

Combining Both Options
Consider a mix of both options. Allocate a portion of your funds to an independent house for rental income and another portion to plots for long-term appreciation.

Other Investment Options
Apart from real estate, diversify into mutual funds, equities, and fixed-income instruments. This ensures a balanced and resilient portfolio.

Benefits of Actively Managed Funds
Actively managed funds can enhance your investment strategy. Let’s explore their advantages:

Professional Management
These funds are managed by experts who make informed decisions based on market conditions.

Potential for Higher Returns
Actively managed funds aim to outperform the market, offering higher returns compared to passive funds.

Flexibility
They can quickly adapt to market changes, capturing growth opportunities and mitigating risks.

Final Insights
Choosing between buying an independent house and investing in plots depends on your financial goals, risk tolerance, and market conditions. An independent house offers immediate rental income and stability, while plots offer higher appreciation potential but require a longer investment horizon.

Consider a balanced approach by diversifying your investments. Consult a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) for personalized advice and explore actively managed funds for potential higher returns.

Your decision should align with your overall financial plan, ensuring a secure and prosperous future for you and your family.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in
DISCLAIMER: The content of this post by the expert is the personal view of the rediffGURU. Users are advised to pursue the information provided by the rediffGURU only as a source of information to be as a point of reference and to rely on their own judgement when making a decision.
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Ramalingam Kalirajan  |8626 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jun 18, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Jun 18, 2024Hindi
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Hi , I am 44 yrs old and having working wife and two son of 17 yrs & 5 yrs... elder son is down syndrom.. joint monthly take home is 2 lacs.. having 85 lacs of mutual fund.. 18 lacs in PPF, 32 lacs in EPF, & around 25 lacs in others like FD, saving, shares etc.. monthly saving around 1.2 lacs including 75K SIP, 18K PPF, 25K EPF etc... Having Own home at my native place.... Want to know that should I go for new Flat purchase at location where I am residing in rented house of monthly 14K excluding electricity or continue my investment in place of Home loan... I hv opted new tax slab and my wife is in old tax... my target to have 15 CR at the age of 60
Ans: Assessing Your Current Financial Situation
Income and Savings
Your combined monthly take-home income is Rs. 2 lakhs. Your current savings include:

Mutual Funds: Rs. 85 lakhs
Public Provident Fund (PPF): Rs. 18 lakhs
Employees’ Provident Fund (EPF): Rs. 32 lakhs
Other Investments (FD, Savings, Shares): Rs. 25 lakhs
Your monthly savings distribution is as follows:

SIP in Mutual Funds: Rs. 75,000
PPF: Rs. 18,000
EPF: Rs. 25,000
You live in a rented house with a rent of Rs. 14,000 per month.

Evaluating the Decision to Buy a New Flat
Current Housing Situation
Living in a rented house at Rs. 14,000 per month is relatively affordable, especially given your high monthly income. Renting provides flexibility and lower maintenance costs compared to owning.

Financial Impact of Buying a New Flat
Purchasing a new flat would involve a significant financial commitment, including a home loan, maintenance costs, property taxes, and other associated expenses. This would reduce your investable surplus and potentially impact your ability to meet your financial goals.

Comparative Analysis: Rent vs. Buy
Renting: Offers flexibility, lower upfront costs, and avoids long-term debt.
Buying: Provides stability and potential appreciation in property value but requires a large financial commitment and ongoing expenses.
Long-term Financial Goals
Target: Rs. 15 Crores by Age 60
To achieve your target of Rs. 15 crores by age 60, you need to focus on maximizing your investments' growth while maintaining a balanced risk profile.

Current Investments and Growth Potential
Mutual Funds: Your Rs. 85 lakhs in mutual funds can grow substantially with continued SIPs and market performance.
PPF and EPF: These provide stable, long-term growth with tax benefits, contributing to your retirement corpus.
Other Investments: FDs, savings, and shares add diversification but should be reviewed for optimal growth potential.
Investment Strategy
Enhancing SIP Contributions
Continuing and potentially increasing your SIP contributions will leverage the power of compounding. Focus on a mix of equity and debt funds to balance growth and risk.

Recommendation: Consider increasing your SIP by a percentage each year to keep pace with inflation and maximize returns.
Diversification and Rebalancing
Ensure your portfolio is diversified across various asset classes to minimize risk and optimize returns. Periodically review and rebalance your portfolio to stay aligned with your financial goals.

Recommendation: Include large-cap, mid-cap, and multi-cap funds for equity exposure. Balance with debt funds for stability.
Utilising Tax-efficient Investments
Maximize your contributions to tax-efficient instruments like PPF and EPF. These not only provide stable returns but also offer significant tax benefits.

Recommendation: Continue maximizing your PPF contributions and ensure your EPF contributions are optimized.
Emergency Fund Management
Maintaining a robust emergency fund is crucial. Your current Rs. 25 lakhs in FD and savings can be used to cover unexpected expenses.

Recommendation: Keep at least 6-12 months of living expenses in easily accessible liquid assets.
Estate Planning and Insurance
Life and Health Insurance
Ensure adequate life and health insurance coverage for your family, especially considering your elder son's needs. This will protect your family's financial stability in case of unforeseen events.

Recommendation: Opt for a comprehensive health insurance plan and term insurance for sufficient coverage.
Estate Planning
Create a comprehensive estate plan, including a will, to ensure your assets are distributed according to your wishes and your family is taken care of.

Recommendation: Consult a legal expert to draft a will and set up any necessary trusts.
Education and Future Planning for Children
Special Needs Planning
Given your elder son's Down syndrome, consider creating a financial plan that ensures his long-term care and support.

Recommendation: Look into setting up a special needs trust and explore government schemes and benefits available for children with disabilities.
Education Fund for Younger Son
Start a dedicated investment plan for your younger son's education. This can include child-specific mutual funds or education-focused investment plans.

Recommendation: Allocate a portion of your monthly savings towards an education fund.
Final Insights
Given your strong financial position and disciplined saving habits, you are well on your way to achieving your long-term goals. However, buying a new flat at this stage might not be the best financial decision if it significantly impacts your investment capacity.

Focusing on growing your investment portfolio and maintaining a balanced, diversified approach will help you accumulate the desired Rs. 15 crores by age 60. Ensuring adequate insurance coverage and planning for your elder son's special needs will further secure your family's future.

Stay disciplined with your investments, periodically review your portfolio, and make adjustments as needed to stay on track. Consulting with a Certified Financial Planner can provide personalized advice and help optimize your financial strategy.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |8626 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Mar 07, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Mar 07, 2025Hindi
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Money
"I own a property in a prime location in Bangalore, within a gated society, and it is within walking distance from an IT SEZ. This property generates a rental income of Rs 50k per month. I also have another property near a SEZ in another metro city, which is also in a gated society and provides a good rental income. I intend to keep this property for my daughter. Currently, I am planning to construct a house in my home capital city for my own stay, along with three additional flats for rental income. I have sufficient funds for the construction. I do not have any loans and, apart from the construction expenses, I have additional investments worth more than 1 crore in mutual funds, stocks, fixed deposits, and provident funds. Given my financial situation, would it be wise to sell the property in Bangalore and earn interest or should I continue earning rental income and the future prospect. Thank you
Ans: Your financial position is strong. You have multiple income sources and no loans. You are also constructing a new house with rental units.

The key question is whether selling the Bangalore property is a better financial decision. Let’s analyze from different angles.

1. Financial Stability and Liquidity
You already have a steady rental income from multiple properties.

Your investments are diversified across mutual funds, stocks, fixed deposits, and provident funds.

You have sufficient funds for the new construction.

There is no immediate need to sell for liquidity.

Keeping the property may provide stable, passive income for years.

2. Rental Income vs. Alternative Investments
Rental Yield Analysis
Your Bangalore property generates Rs 50,000 per month, or Rs 6 lakh per year.

If the property value is Rs 2 crore, the rental yield is 3% per year.

Rental yield in prime locations is typically between 2% to 4%.

Comparing with Interest or Market Investments
If you sell the property for Rs 2 crore and invest in fixed-income options, you may earn:

Fixed Deposits: Around 7% per year (Rs 14 lakh per year).

Debt Mutual Funds: 6% to 8% per year (Rs 12-16 lakh per year).

If you invest in mutual funds or stocks, potential returns can be 10% to 12% per year (Rs 20-24 lakh per year).

These returns are higher than the current rental yield of 3%.

Selling and investing can generate better cash flow than rental income.

3. Capital Appreciation Potential
Bangalore's real estate market has shown strong appreciation over the years.

Prime locations near IT hubs tend to see price growth.

If property prices rise faster than market investments, holding it may be better.

If growth is slow, selling and reinvesting in financial assets makes more sense.

Research the expected appreciation for the next 5-10 years.

4. Tax Implications of Selling
Capital Gains Tax
If you sell, you will incur long-term capital gains tax.

The tax is 20% on gains after indexation.

You can reduce tax by reinvesting in another property under Section 54.

If not reinvested, your net proceeds will reduce due to tax.

5. Diversification and Risk Management
You already have multiple real estate assets.

Real estate is illiquid and requires maintenance.

Selling and reinvesting in liquid assets increases flexibility.

If rental demand declines, income may be affected.

If you want to reduce real estate exposure, selling is a good option.

6. Future Rental Demand and Market Trends
Bangalore’s IT sector drives rental demand.

If IT jobs continue to grow, rental demand will stay strong.

Remote work trends may affect demand in the long term.

Check vacancy rates and rent growth trends before deciding.

7. Personal Preferences and Lifestyle
If managing rental properties is a hassle, selling may be better.

If you prefer stable and passive income, keeping the property is fine.

If you plan to use the property in the future, holding makes sense.

If you prefer liquidity and financial flexibility, selling is better.

Final Insights
Your financial position allows flexibility in decision-making.

If capital appreciation is strong, holding the property is beneficial.

If rental growth is slow, selling and reinvesting in financial assets may be better.

Consider tax implications and reinvestment options before selling.

If you prefer liquidity and higher returns, selling is a good option.

If you want stable rental income, keeping the property is fine.

A Certified Financial Planner can help with tax-efficient investment planning.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

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

..Read more

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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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