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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |9241 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 11, 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 - Apr 24, 2024Hindi
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Should I buy a house in new tower or old building

Ans: There are pros and cons to both new towers and old buildings, so the best choice for you depends on your priorities. Here's a breakdown to help you decide:

New Tower:

Pros:

Modern amenities: New towers often come with modern amenities like gyms, swimming pools, security features, and high-speed internet.
Energy efficiency: Newer buildings are typically built with energy-efficient features that can save you money on utilities.
Lower maintenance: You'll likely face fewer immediate maintenance needs with a new building.
Warranty: New builds often come with warranties that cover repairs for a set period.
Cons:

Higher cost: New towers typically cost more per square foot than older buildings.
Less character: New buildings may lack the character and charm of older buildings.
Construction noise: If the building is under construction, you may have to deal with noise and dust.
Waiting time: If the building is not yet completed, you may have to wait to move in.
Old Building:

Pros:

Lower cost: Generally, older buildings are more affordable than new builds.
Character: Older buildings often have unique architectural features and a sense of history.
Mature neighborhood: You may be located in a more established neighborhood with amenities like parks and shops.
Move-in ready: You can likely move in right away, unless renovations are needed.
Cons:

Higher maintenance: Older buildings may require more frequent repairs and updates.
Lower energy efficiency: Older buildings may be less energy-efficient, leading to higher utility bills.
Fewer amenities: Older buildings may not have the same amenities as new towers.
Potential hazards: Some older buildings may have lead paint, asbestos, or other safety hazards.
Here are some additional factors to consider:

Your lifestyle: Do you value modern amenities or a charming historic feel?
Your budget: How much can you afford to spend on a house?
Your timeline: Do you need to move in right away?
The specific property: Research the condition of the building and the reputation of the neighborhood in both cases.
Ultimately, the best way to decide is to visit several properties of both types and see which one feels more like home to you.

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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Dev

Dev Ashish  | Answer  |Ask -

MF Expert, Financial Planner - Answered on Jun 27, 2024

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Hi..I have a Real Estate Property @ 1.35 cr in other city whereas I stay in a house worth Rs. 80 Lakhs in other city and I also have Equity n MF worth Rs. 1 cr and I am getting Rent from Such Property @ Rs. 35,000 and no other income other than this...So mY QUESTION IS WHETHER buying a new property worth Rs. 3.5 cr is a right decision or opine your expertise on my Finance
Ans: To answer your question, sufficient information isn't provided. We still don't know what other goals you have that need funding. Also, purchasing a Rs 3.5 Cr will require you to take a loan for which you will have a big EMI to service. Your only income is Rs 35,000 monthly which would be used for regular expenses. it is also not known whether you plan to sell your existing properties to fund new property purchase or not.

So it seems that the decision to purchase a new property doesn't seem the right one based on the limited details that you have shared.


Thanks
Dev Ashish,
SEBI Registered Investment Advisor (Fee-Only RIA)
Founder, StableInvestor.com
Twitter (@Stableinvestor)

Note (Disclaimer) - As a SEBI RIA, I cannot comment on specific schemes/funds that are provided or asked for in the questions in the platform. And the views expressed above should not be considered professional investment advice or advertisement or otherwise. No specific product/service recommendations have been made and the answers here are for general educational purposes only. The readers are requested to take into consideration all the risk factors including their financial condition, suitability to risk-return profile and the like and take professional investment advice before investing.

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |9241 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Nov 20, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Nov 16, 2024Hindi
Money
Hi there - I have the following real estate portfolio - India - 2 Apartments fully paid and a single storey landed property (ancestral), 1 overseas property valued at 5 CR with around 2.4 cr loan pending. Currently, the landed property in India is rented out and I receive a meagre rent monthly of 10K INR. I was thinking of handing over to a builder to build an apartment complex and keep 3 apartments for myself based on what the builders offers (Of course I will have to buy 1 apartment and have the rent from those offset the other 2 apartments that the builder will give me). Either this, or I build another level on top and rent out the two separately. I this case I will have to invest additional 30L. Financially, I was wondering what would be a better option? I have no intention of staying there for another 15 years at least.
Ans: Your real estate portfolio is diverse and well-structured, with properties in India and overseas. This portfolio offers you flexibility, but it also requires careful decision-making to maximise returns and reduce liabilities. Let us assess your current situation and evaluate both options you are considering.

Strengths in Your Portfolio
Debt-Free Indian Properties: Fully paid apartments and an ancestral landed property offer financial stability.

Income Generation: While the rent of Rs 10,000 is modest, it provides a consistent income stream.

Overseas Property: Although it has a pending loan, its Rs 5 crore valuation indicates strong equity.

Challenges to Consider
Low Rental Income: The Rs 10,000 rent from the landed property is not financially impactful.

High Loan on Overseas Property: The Rs 2.4 crore liability needs to be managed strategically.

Future Commitment: Both your proposed options require significant time, effort, and financial resources.

Assessing Option 1: Handing Over to a Builder for an Apartment Complex
Advantages
Increased Asset Value: Converting the property into an apartment complex increases its market value.

Additional Income: Renting out multiple apartments can yield higher rental income.

Minimal Upfront Investment: The builder covers most costs, reducing your financial burden.

Ownership of Multiple Apartments: Retaining three apartments ensures future flexibility.

Disadvantages
Dependence on Builder’s Offer: The deal heavily depends on the builder’s terms and reliability.

Extended Timelines: The construction period could delay income generation.

Market Risks: Renting or selling multiple apartments depends on market conditions.

Key Considerations
Assess the builder’s reputation and financial stability.
Ensure transparent legal agreements with clear terms and timelines.
Evaluate the market demand for apartments in the location.
Assessing Option 2: Adding a Level and Renting Out Units
Advantages
Control Over Property: You retain full control over the construction process.

Quicker Completion: Adding a level is faster than constructing an entire complex.

Modest Investment: Rs 30 lakh is a smaller upfront commitment compared to other options.

Steady Rental Income: Renting out two units provides immediate and predictable cash flow.

Disadvantages
Limited Growth Potential: This option adds only incremental income and asset value.

Construction Challenges: Managing permits and construction quality requires your involvement.

Upfront Cost: The Rs 30 lakh investment may impact your liquidity.

Key Considerations
Plan for the Rs 30 lakh investment without disrupting other financial goals.
Ensure proper permissions for adding another level to the property.
Research rental demand and pricing for the additional units.
Financial Implications
Loan on Overseas Property

Prioritise repaying the Rs 2.4 crore loan to reduce interest costs.
Consider liquidating underperforming assets to reduce liabilities.
Rental Income Potential

The builder option may yield higher income but involves delays and uncertainties.
Adding a level provides immediate income but limits long-term growth.
Liquidity and Cash Flow

Avoid over-committing funds to construction or renovation.
Maintain an emergency fund to address unforeseen expenses.
Alternative Investment Suggestions
Instead of solely focusing on real estate, you can consider diversifying into financial instruments for balanced growth:

Actively Managed Mutual Funds
Offer consistent growth potential with professional fund management.
Provide liquidity and flexibility to align with financial goals.
Hybrid Funds
Blend equity and debt investments for stability and moderate growth.
Ideal for generating consistent income while preserving capital.
Systematic Withdrawal Plans (SWP)
Generate monthly income from investments while ensuring capital preservation.
Provides a reliable alternative to rental income.
Regular Funds vs Direct Funds
Regular funds ensure expert guidance and portfolio optimisation by Certified Financial Planners.
Direct funds require self-management, which may lead to errors and missed opportunities.
Tax Considerations
Capital Gains Tax: Selling any property will attract long-term or short-term capital gains tax.
Tax Savings: Reinvesting proceeds in financial instruments can optimise tax liability.
Final Insights
Both options for your ancestral property have pros and cons. The builder option offers long-term growth but requires careful negotiation and patience. Adding a level provides immediate income with lower financial risk.

Diversifying into financial investments can complement your real estate portfolio, providing liquidity and consistent returns. Assess your financial priorities and future plans before committing to a decision.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

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

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |9241 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jan 30, 2025

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I have a purchased a 2 BHK house in Ulwe Navi Mumbai which is under construction & may get possession by Dec2026. For this home loan is 74 lacs & emi is 66K per month. I also have another 1 bhk in same area which is loan free, so my question is what should be my approach for future? Should I sell my 1 BHK (the value could be 50 lacs), once I get the possession of new house to repay the loan on new house OR I should continue to pay EMI give this old 1BHK on rent (Rent could be 12K/month) by this way I can also save capital tax gain, please suggest. The property rates are going to be on higher side in future in this area since this is the area where Atal setu & Airport is being constructed, please advise. Thanks.
Ans: Understanding Your Current Situation
You own two properties in Ulwe, Navi Mumbai.

1 BHK: Loan-free, market value Rs. 50 lakhs, potential rent Rs. 12K/month.

2 BHK (Under Construction): Home loan of Rs. 74 lakhs, EMI Rs. 66K/month, possession by Dec 2026.

You believe property rates will rise due to infrastructure projects like Atal Setu & Airport.

Key Factors to Consider
1. Loan Burden & Interest Cost
Your EMI of Rs. 66K/month is a significant financial commitment.

Over 20-25 years, total interest paid can exceed Rs. 70-90 lakhs.

Selling your 1 BHK and prepaying part of the 2 BHK loan can reduce this burden.

2. Rental Income vs Loan Cost
Rental income: Rs. 12K/month (Rs. 1.44 lakhs per year).

EMI: Rs. 66K/month (Rs. 7.92 lakhs per year).

Your rental yield is just 2.8% annually, while the home loan interest is around 8-9%.

Keeping the 1 BHK does not provide strong financial benefits.

3. Capital Gains Tax on Selling 1 BHK
If sold after holding for more than 2 years, you qualify for long-term capital gains tax (LTCG).

LTCG tax is 20% with indexation benefit.

Reinvesting in your 2 BHK loan is NOT eligible for capital gains tax exemption.

To save LTCG tax, you can invest in capital gain bonds (under Section 54EC).

4. Future Property Value Appreciation
Future appreciation is uncertain. While infrastructure development helps, property cycles do not guarantee constant growth.

Navi Mumbai’s market is already seeing a high supply of properties. Short-term gains may not be significant.

Holding an extra property is only beneficial if the price rise is higher than loan interest + maintenance costs.

What Should Be Your Approach?
Option 1: Sell 1 BHK and Reduce Loan (Recommended)
Sell the 1 BHK after possession of the 2 BHK (to avoid uncertainty in under-construction delays).

Use Rs. 50 lakhs to partially prepay the 2 BHK loan.

Loan burden reduces significantly, EMI can reduce by nearly Rs. 35K-40K per month.

Invest the remaining capital gain in tax-saving bonds to avoid tax.

Option 2: Retain 1 BHK & Continue Paying EMI
Keep 1 BHK for rental income (Rs. 12K/month).

Continue paying full EMI of Rs. 66K/month.

Property value may or may not rise as expected.

Low rental yield & high EMI stress make this a weaker option.

Final Insights
Financially, selling the 1 BHK and reducing the loan is better.

Lower EMI = More financial flexibility for future investments.

Holding both properties only makes sense if appreciation is very strong.

If selling, plan capital gains tax exemption wisely.

Real estate is not the best long-term investment compared to equity & mutual funds.

Reducing home loan burden improves cash flow & future financial security.

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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