44, Wife 39, 2 Kids - Should I Buy Property Now or Wait?

Ans: Hi Divya ,it depends on 2things , the Real estate you want to buy is for personal use or you want to buy as an investment. If you intend to buy it for personal use then if you like the project ,location and believe the price is good ,then go ahead and buy it. But if you want to buy as an investment then a lot of factors are to be seen. Today the situation is very different as far as rent is concerned specially after covid time. so getting a good rent may or may not be possible. Also the home loan interest rates are going up in accordance with repo rate hike.so consider that too.

Ans: Congratulations on your steady combined income and substantial savings in equity and mutual funds. Considering a home purchase is a significant decision, especially in a high-value market like Mumbai. This guide will help you evaluate the decision and manage the associated financial obligations effectively.

Understanding Your Financial Position

Your monthly combined income of Rs 2.2 lakhs is commendable. You have annual fixed expenses of Rs 2.5 lakhs and monthly living expenses of Rs 45-50 thousand. Your current savings in equity and mutual funds amount to Rs 24 lakhs. These factors provide a strong foundation for assessing your ability to buy a house.

Evaluating the Home Purchase Decision

Buying a house is both an emotional and financial decision. Given the property rates in Mumbai, you are looking at homes costing between Rs 1.3 to 1.5 crores. This is a substantial investment that will impact your financial situation for years. Let's break down the key considerations.

Down Payment and Loan Amount

Typically, you will need to make a down payment of at least 20% of the property value. For a house costing Rs 1.3 to 1.5 crores, this amounts to Rs 26 to 30 lakhs. Your current savings can comfortably cover this down payment, but it will significantly reduce your liquid assets. The remaining amount, Rs 1.04 to 1.2 crores, will need to be financed through a home loan.

Home Loan Considerations

Home loans come with long-term financial commitments. With interest rates and the loan tenure (usually 20-25 years), the EMI (Equated Monthly Installment) can be a significant portion of your monthly income. It is crucial to ensure that your EMI does not exceed 40% of your monthly income to maintain financial stability.

Impact on Monthly Budget

Assuming an EMI of around Rs 80,000 to Rs 1 lakh, you will need to adjust your monthly budget. With your living expenses of Rs 45-50 thousand and fixed annual expenses, managing the EMI within your current income level will require careful planning.

Emergency Fund and Savings

Maintaining an emergency fund is essential, especially after committing to a significant financial obligation like a home loan. Ensure you have at least six months' worth of expenses in an easily accessible savings account or liquid fund. Additionally, continue to save and invest in mutual funds to ensure long-term financial growth and security.

Tax Benefits of Home Loans

Home loans come with tax benefits under sections 80C and 24(b) of the Income Tax Act. The principal repayment qualifies for deduction up to Rs 1.5 lakhs, while the interest payment is eligible for deduction up to Rs 2 lakhs annually. These benefits can provide some relief in managing the overall financial burden.

Managing the Obligations

Budgeting and Expense Management: Create a detailed budget that includes your EMI, living expenses, fixed obligations, and emergency fund contributions. Track your expenses regularly to ensure you stay within your budget.

Prioritizing Investments: While focusing on the home loan, continue to invest in mutual funds for long-term growth. Diversify your portfolio across different types of funds to optimize returns and manage risk.

Professional Guidance: Consult with a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) to ensure your financial plan aligns with your long-term goals. A CFP can provide personalized advice on managing your investments, loan repayment, and overall financial health.

Insurance Cover: Ensure you have adequate life and health insurance coverage. This protects your family and financial interests in case of unforeseen events. Consider term insurance for life cover and a comprehensive health insurance policy.

Emergency Fund: Maintain an emergency fund equivalent to at least six months' expenses. This provides a financial cushion in case of job loss, medical emergencies, or other unexpected events.

Regular Reviews: Periodically review your financial plan and make adjustments as needed. Regular reviews with your CFP can help you stay on track with your goals and adapt to any changes in your financial situation.

Long-Term Financial Planning

Retirement Planning: Continue to contribute towards your retirement corpus through systematic investment plans (SIPs) in mutual funds. A well-planned retirement strategy ensures financial independence in your later years.

Children’s Education: If you have or plan to have children, start investing early for their education. Consider dedicated education funds or SIPs in diversified equity mutual funds for long-term growth.

Estate Planning: Ensure you have a clear estate plan in place. Create a will to specify how your assets should be distributed, and consider setting up trusts if necessary. Proper estate planning can prevent legal disputes and ensure a smooth transfer of assets to your heirs.

Disadvantages of Direct Funds

While direct funds have lower expense ratios, they lack the professional guidance provided by regular funds. Investing through a Mutual Fund Distributor (MFD) with CFP credentials ensures you receive expert advice. This professional support can help you make informed decisions, align your investments with your financial goals, and navigate market complexities.

Disadvantages of Index Funds

Index funds passively track market indices, offering average market returns. They don't capitalize on market inefficiencies or opportunities that actively managed funds can exploit. For someone aiming for higher returns, especially with long-term goals, actively managed funds can provide better growth potential.

Benefits of Regular Funds

Regular funds, accessed through an MFD with CFP credentials, provide the advantage of expert guidance. These professionals can help you navigate complex investment decisions, rebalance your portfolio, and adapt your strategy as your financial situation evolves. The value of personalized advice often outweighs the marginally higher expense ratios.

Balancing Short-Term and Long-Term Goals

While purchasing a house is a significant short-term goal, it’s essential to balance it with your long-term financial goals. Continue to invest for your future, ensuring that your retirement, children’s education, and other long-term objectives remain on track.

Emotional and Practical Considerations

Buying a house is not just a financial decision but an emotional one too. Consider your long-term plans, job stability, and lifestyle preferences. Owning a home provides stability and a sense of ownership but comes with maintenance responsibilities and financial obligations.

Final Insights

Buying a house in Mumbai is a major financial commitment that requires careful planning and disciplined execution. Assess your financial readiness, consider the impact on your monthly budget, and ensure you have a robust emergency fund. Leverage the expertise of a Certified Financial Planner to create a comprehensive financial plan that balances your short-term and long-term goals. By making informed decisions and managing your finances prudently, you can achieve your dream of homeownership while maintaining financial stability.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

Ans: It's challenging to predict the real estate market with certainty. However, market trends suggest it may remain stable or see moderate growth over the next 4-5 years. Factors like economic conditions, interest rates, and government policies will play a crucial role. If you're considering buying property, keep an eye on these trends and be prepared to act when the market conditions align with your goals. Consulting with a Certified Financial Planner can help you make an informed decision based on your financial situation and long-term objectives.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

Ans: You are 64 years old and still earning Rs. 18 lakhs annually. Living on rent for Rs. 21,000 per month seems manageable. You have savings of Rs. 80 lakhs and no other liabilities. With your two daughters married, you and your wife are financially secure in terms of dependents.

You are considering purchasing a house worth Rs. 60 lakhs. This is a significant decision and requires careful evaluation.

Assessing the Need for Purchasing a House
Renting vs. Owning
You are currently paying Rs. 21,000 monthly in rent, which equals Rs. 2.52 lakhs annually. This is a reasonable amount compared to your income of Rs. 18 lakhs per year. Owning a house, however, will bring additional costs such as property tax, maintenance, and repairs. Let's consider the benefits and drawbacks of buying a house at this stage.

Advantages of Renting:
Flexibility to move if needed.
Lower ongoing financial commitment.
Savings can continue to grow and be invested elsewhere.
Advantages of Owning:
Stability and security of owning your home.
No monthly rent payments.
Potential long-term capital appreciation.
Buying a house would use up a large portion of your savings. It might limit your liquidity and leave you with less cash for emergencies or future needs. At your age, liquidity is crucial for managing unforeseen expenses, especially healthcare-related ones.

Liquidity and Emergency Planning
You and your wife need a financial cushion for healthcare and daily living expenses. Though your earnings are good, retirement could be on the horizon. The Rs. 80 lakhs you have saved should be allocated wisely to provide for your post-retirement years.

Buying a house will deplete Rs. 60 lakhs, leaving only Rs. 20 lakhs for other needs. This may not be sufficient for future healthcare, emergencies, or lifestyle expenses.

Investment Potential
House as an Investment Option
While buying a house may seem like a good investment, it is a less liquid asset. If you need cash in the future, selling property may take time. Property prices also fluctuate based on market conditions. In contrast, keeping your savings liquid in mutual funds, fixed deposits, or other financial instruments can offer flexibility and consistent growth.

A Certified Financial Planner would typically advise against locking up too much of your savings in real estate, especially at this age. It may be better to focus on investments that offer liquidity, safety, and steady returns.

Health Care and Long-Term Planning
As you and your wife age, healthcare costs will likely rise. Keeping a significant portion of your Rs. 80 lakh savings in easily accessible and growth-oriented investments is essential. Healthcare emergencies or long-term care may arise, and selling a house during such times might not be feasible.

Consider enhancing your health insurance coverage if needed. Also, set aside funds in safe, liquid investments that can be accessed easily during emergencies.

Evaluating Your Current Income and Expenses
You are earning Rs. 18 lakhs annually, which gives you good financial stability. Your current rent of Rs. 21,000 per month is reasonable compared to your income. This leaves you with plenty of room for savings and investments.

Buying a house worth Rs. 60 lakhs may disrupt this balance. You will not only lose liquidity but also face additional expenses like property tax, maintenance, and repairs. Renting, on the other hand, provides flexibility without burdening your finances.

Benefits of Actively Managed Funds over Real Estate
If you are considering investing your Rs. 80 lakhs, actively managed mutual funds can provide better returns and more flexibility than real estate. Actively managed funds have the potential to outperform the market, as professional fund managers can adjust the portfolio based on market conditions.

In contrast, real estate is an illiquid investment and can take time to sell if needed. Moreover, real estate prices can stagnate or even decline in certain areas, making it a less attractive investment compared to mutual funds that offer both growth and liquidity.

Disadvantages of Index Funds
Some people prefer index funds for their low fees, but they are not the best option for everyone. Index funds merely replicate the market performance and may not provide significant returns over inflation in the long run. Actively managed funds, on the other hand, can potentially beat the market and give higher returns, making them more suitable for long-term wealth creation.

Disadvantages of Direct Mutual Funds
You may have considered direct mutual funds because of lower expense ratios. However, these funds do not come with expert advice, which is crucial, especially when managing significant retirement savings.

Investing through a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) and a Mutual Fund Distributor (MFD) provides access to personalized guidance. A CFP will help you balance your portfolio based on your goals, risk appetite, and time horizon. This can make a big difference in managing your wealth efficiently.

Maintaining Financial Independence
Given your age and the absence of any liabilities, it is vital to maintain your financial independence. Your income is good, but in the coming years, you may want to transition into retirement. Financial independence means having enough liquid assets to cover living expenses, healthcare, and unforeseen emergencies without worrying about market fluctuations.

Locking a large portion of your savings in real estate could compromise your financial independence. In contrast, keeping your savings in a diversified portfolio of liquid investments ensures that you can continue to manage your expenses and live comfortably.

Final Insights
Here are some important points for your situation:

Liquidity: Retain liquidity to cover emergencies, healthcare, and lifestyle expenses.

Renting: Renting at Rs. 21,000 per month is affordable and gives flexibility.

Owning a House: Buying a house may limit your liquidity and increase your financial burden.

Investments: Actively managed mutual funds offer better growth and liquidity than real estate.

Healthcare: Consider enhancing health insurance and setting aside emergency funds.

Long-Term Financial Independence: Focus on investments that provide liquidity and steady growth for retirement.

At this stage of life, maintaining financial flexibility and independence should be the priority. Locking your savings into real estate may not be the best decision.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,
Chief Financial Planner,
www.holisticinvestment.in
https://www.youtube.com/@HolisticInvestment