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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10881 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jul 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 - Jun 24, 2024Hindi
Money

Hi... I have two land properties which are each worth 2.5cr and about and I get offers to buy on a regular basis. Both are in good localities in Hyderabad. I am 50 year old and I am trying I understand how to monitise them by diversifying...I have zero knowledge on stocks and mutual funds. Can you advice how to look at it?

Ans: You have done an excellent job in accumulating valuable assets. Owning two properties worth Rs. 2.5 crore each in Hyderabad is a significant achievement. You receive regular offers for these properties, which highlights their desirability and potential for monetization. Given your goal to diversify and your lack of knowledge in stocks and mutual funds, let's explore how you can strategically monetize these assets and diversify your portfolio.

Understanding Your Financial Goals and Needs
Before diving into the specifics of diversification, it's essential to clarify your financial goals and needs. Here are a few key questions to consider:

What is your primary goal in monetizing these properties? (e.g., generating regular income, building a retirement corpus, funding children's education)

What is your risk tolerance? (e.g., conservative, moderate, aggressive)

What is your investment horizon? (e.g., short-term, medium-term, long-term)

Understanding these aspects will help in tailoring a suitable diversification strategy.

Why Diversification is Important
Diversification is the process of spreading investments across various asset classes to reduce risk. By not putting all your eggs in one basket, you can protect your wealth from market volatility and potential downturns in any single asset class.

Selling Land Properties: Pros and Cons
Pros:

Liquidity: Selling land provides you with liquid cash that can be invested in other asset classes.

Diversification: Proceeds from the sale can be diversified into different investments like mutual funds, stocks, bonds, and more.

Income Generation: Investing in income-generating assets can provide a regular stream of income.

Cons:

Emotional Attachment: Selling a property with sentimental value can be challenging.

Capital Gains Tax: Selling property attracts capital gains tax, which can reduce your net proceeds.

Steps to Monetize and Diversify Your Assets
1. Evaluate the Market Value
First, get an accurate valuation of your properties. Engaging a professional appraiser or real estate consultant can provide a realistic market value.

2. Plan the Sale
If you decide to sell, plan the sale strategically. Choose the right time to sell to maximize returns. High demand periods often yield better prices.

3. Understand Tax Implications
Selling property will attract capital gains tax. Consult with a tax advisor to understand the tax implications and explore options to minimize tax liability, such as reinvesting in specific bonds under Section 54EC.

4. Allocate Proceeds Strategically
Once you have liquid cash from the sale, it's time to diversify. Here’s how you can allocate the proceeds:

a. Emergency Fund

Set aside 6-12 months of living expenses as an emergency fund. This ensures financial stability during unforeseen circumstances.
b. Debt Instruments

Invest a portion in fixed-income instruments like bonds or fixed deposits. These provide stability and regular interest income.
c. Mutual Funds

Mutual funds are an excellent way to diversify across various sectors and asset classes. Here are some types of mutual funds to consider:

Equity Mutual Funds:

Invest primarily in stocks. They offer high return potential but come with higher risk. Suitable for long-term goals.
Debt Mutual Funds:

Invest in fixed-income securities. They provide stable returns with lower risk. Suitable for medium-term goals.
Hybrid Mutual Funds:

Combine equity and debt. They offer a balanced approach with moderate risk and return.
d. Systematic Investment Plan (SIP)

Start SIPs in mutual funds. This allows you to invest a fixed amount regularly, benefiting from rupee cost averaging and compounding.
5. Explore Stocks and Bonds
If you are open to learning, stocks and bonds can offer good diversification:

Stocks:

Invest in individual stocks of companies with strong fundamentals. Diversify across sectors to mitigate risk. Consult with a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) for guidance.
Bonds:

Government and corporate bonds offer fixed returns and lower risk compared to stocks. They are suitable for conservative investors.
6. Consider Gold and Precious Metals
Gold is a traditional safe-haven asset. You can invest in gold ETFs or sovereign gold bonds for better liquidity and returns.

7. Regular Review and Rebalancing
Once your diversified portfolio is set up, regularly review and rebalance it. This ensures your investments stay aligned with your goals and risk tolerance.

Advantages of Mutual Funds
Mutual funds are an excellent option for diversification, especially for beginners. Here are some advantages:

1. Professional Management

Mutual funds are managed by professional fund managers who make informed investment decisions on your behalf.
2. Diversification

Mutual funds pool money from many investors to buy a diversified portfolio of stocks, bonds, and other securities. This reduces risk compared to investing in individual stocks.
3. Liquidity

Mutual funds offer high liquidity. You can easily buy and sell units as needed.
4. Compounding

The power of compounding can significantly enhance your returns over time. Reinvested earnings generate additional earnings.
5. Accessibility

Mutual funds are accessible to all investors, with options for every risk appetite and investment horizon.
Disadvantages of Index Funds
Index funds are a type of mutual fund that replicates a specific market index. While they have their benefits, there are also disadvantages:

1. Lack of Flexibility

Index funds strictly follow the index, which can limit flexibility in adjusting to market changes.
2. Potential Underperformance

Index funds aim to match the index, not outperform it. In volatile markets, actively managed funds may provide better returns.
3. Limited Diversification

Index funds are limited to the components of the index. Actively managed funds can diversify across different sectors and asset classes.
Benefits of Actively Managed Funds
Actively managed funds offer several benefits over index funds:

1. Potential for Higher Returns

Fund managers actively select securities to outperform the market, offering potential for higher returns.
2. Risk Management

Active managers can adjust the portfolio to manage risk during market downturns.
3. Diversification

Actively managed funds can invest across various sectors and asset classes, offering broader diversification.
4. Professional Expertise

Fund managers use their expertise and research to make informed investment decisions.
Final Insights
You have done exceptionally well in accumulating valuable assets. Monetizing your properties in Hyderabad can provide a significant amount of liquid cash, which can be strategically diversified to build a robust financial portfolio. By investing in mutual funds, stocks, bonds, and other asset classes, you can reduce risk and enhance returns. Regularly reviewing and rebalancing your portfolio will ensure it remains aligned with your financial goals and risk tolerance. Consulting with a Certified Financial Planner can provide personalized guidance and help you make informed decisions. Keep up the good work, and stay focused on your financial goals.

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

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10881 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jul 11, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Jul 04, 2025Hindi
Money
Hello Sir, I am from Karnataka living in tier 3 coastal city , I am 52 yrs male, a freelancer having on average 15 to 20 lakhs income per year. Other than 2 residential flats which and 2 commercial property which yield income around 55k. I have 1 agriculture property , and a residential property which yield no income . I have some enquiry for agriculture land and i am in dilemma whether to sell it and invest money in PF and some commercial property which can yield some income for my future increasing expenses . Or i should sell other residential land and flats (12 years old) . I have a home without loan where i live. I have a SIP of 15000 pm and current MF portfolio of 24 lakhs. Kindly advice,Thanks in advance.
Ans: ? Your Financial Profile Overview

– You are 52 years old, living in a tier-3 city in Karnataka.
– Your average yearly income is Rs 15 to 20 lakhs.
– You are a freelancer, so income may not be fixed.
– You own two residential and two commercial properties.
– The total rental income is around Rs 55,000 per month.
– You have one house for living with no loan burden.
– You also own one agriculture property and one unused residential plot.
– Your SIP is Rs 15,000 per month.
– You have Rs 24 lakhs invested in mutual funds.

– You have shown excellent discipline in real estate and mutual fund investments.
– You are thinking about future income and rising expenses.
– You also want to consider which property to sell for better returns.

? Identify What You Really Need Now

– At age 52, the priority is income stability after retirement.
– You may not want to depend fully on freelancing after 60.
– You need regular income, low risk, and liquidity.
– Capital growth alone is not enough anymore.
– Income generation and capital protection are now equally important.

? Evaluate All Properties from Income and Risk View

– Let us focus on each asset separately:

– Agriculture Land:

Not giving any income now.

Liquidity depends on demand in your area.

Cannot develop easily or lease to businesses.

If you have buyers now, it may be a good time to sell.

– Residential Flats (12 years old):

May have higher maintenance cost going forward.

Rental yields are usually very low in tier-3 cities.

Occupancy risk is also high.

If appreciation is slow, think about selling at a fair price.

– Commercial Properties:

Giving Rs 55,000 rental income.

This is a good passive income source.

Commercial rents are usually better than residential.

Continue holding them unless repair cost becomes high.

– Vacant Residential Land:

Not generating income.

Capital appreciation depends on location and demand.

Selling it may free up idle capital.

? Don’t Add More Real Estate Now

– Avoid buying more commercial property now.
– Real estate has very low liquidity.
– You can’t sell quickly when needed.
– It has high stamp duty and maintenance costs.
– Property management can become a burden in older age.
– Your portfolio is already heavy in real estate.

– Instead of more real estate, build liquid income assets.
– That gives peace, flexibility, and access during health or family needs.

? Use Proceeds for Retirement-Ready Investments

– Sell the agriculture land or one residential flat.
– Choose the one with better sale value and market demand.
– Avoid distress sale. Wait for decent price.
– Use the funds for structured investments.

– Split the proceeds like this:

50% in hybrid or debt mutual funds for monthly income.

30% in equity mutual funds for long-term growth.

20% in short-term debt or liquid funds for flexibility.

– Keep SIP of Rs 15,000 running.
– Increase to Rs 20,000 if possible from rental or freelance income.
– This will grow your Rs 24 lakhs MF portfolio steadily.

? Why Mutual Funds Offer Better Control Than Real Estate

– Mutual funds are liquid.
– You can redeem in parts as per need.
– They don’t need maintenance or documentation work.
– You can start small and build up monthly.

– Equity mutual funds are suitable for long-term inflation-beating growth.
– Hybrid and debt funds can give regular income with less risk.
– Choose actively managed mutual funds for better returns.

– Avoid index funds.
– They blindly copy the market.
– They include weak and loss-making companies.
– They don’t protect you during market fall.

? Don’t Choose Direct Mutual Funds

– Direct mutual funds don’t offer guidance or tracking.
– You may miss out on performance review.
– Emotional selling in panic can reduce returns.
– Instead use regular mutual funds via MFD with CFP.
– This gives you proper support, review, and fund selection.

? Plan for Post-60 Income

– Build a monthly income plan for post-retirement.
– Aim for at least Rs 60,000 to Rs 75,000 monthly income from investments.
– That includes SIP corpus, rentals, and freelancing if you continue.

– Shift some corpus to income-generating mutual funds from age 58–60.
– Plan withdrawals smartly. Don’t take out lump sums.
– Use SWP (systematic withdrawal plan) after 60 to get fixed monthly cash.

– For equity mutual funds:

Gains above Rs 1.25 lakh taxed at 12.5%.

Less than 1-year holding taxed at 20%.

– For debt funds:

Taxed as per income slab.

You can plan redemptions to reduce tax.

? Stay Away from Real Estate for Retirement

– After age 60, real estate becomes stressful.
– Rentals can stop due to tenant issues.
– Property may remain vacant for long.
– Selling after retirement becomes harder.
– Government rules also keep changing.

– Mutual funds give better peace and access.
– Regular review gives better control.

? Protect Against Health and Life Risks

– You already have term insurance and health insurance.
– Check if coverage is enough.
– Health cover must be minimum Rs 10 to Rs 15 lakhs.
– Upgrade to super top-up if base cover is low.

– Term insurance can be reduced or stopped after 60.
– But health cover must continue lifelong.

– Keep emergency fund of Rs 3 to Rs 5 lakhs separately.
– Don’t touch it for investing.

? Plan for Your Spouse and Family

– If married, ensure your spouse understands the plan.
– Include her name in bank, MF, and nominee documents.
– Make a simple will to avoid confusion.

– Avoid holding land or real estate jointly unless very necessary.
– Paperwork becomes messy later.

? Finally

– You are in a strong position at age 52.
– Good mix of assets and no loan burden.
– But too much in real estate can hurt flexibility.

– Sell one non-performing asset like agri land or residential flat.
– Don’t buy more property.
– Use money for mutual funds that give income and growth.
– Focus on stable income, not risky appreciation.

– Stay consistent in SIPs.
– Review portfolio once every year with a CFP.
– Avoid reacting to market ups and downs.

– This balanced approach will give you a peaceful retirement.
– And better control of money even after 70.

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

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10881 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jul 10, 2025

Money
Dear Sir, I have a rental income of 2 laks per month and the house is worth 15 crores. I am living is a flat.which is fully owned and no EMI's pending. I have other land worth 2 crore which is appreciating at 12 to 15 percent per anum. I have one child and my living expenses is upto 1 lakh per month including childs education. I have a persional loan of 8 lakhs and emi of 20k per month. I have gold worth 10 lakhs. 3 lakhs in Savings. How should i diversify my investment. I feel all my investments are in real estate in bangalore which is growing eell. Should i sell my land and diversify in other assets.
Ans: High Reliance on Property

– You have rental income of Rs.2 lakh monthly, with house value of Rs.15 crore.
– You also have land worth Rs.2 crore appreciating at 12–15% annually.
– Gold is Rs.10 lakh and savings are Rs.3 lakh.
– You have a personal loan of Rs.8 lakh, with EMIs of Rs.20,000 monthly.

Your wealth is heavily tied to real estate. You rely on that for both income and appreciation. That creates concentration risk. And it makes your financial future sensitive to property market trends or regulatory changes.

Why You Need Portfolio Diversification

– Having all wealth in one asset class is risky.
– Property prices can fall or be taxed more.
– Exposure to interest rates and occupier demand is high.
– Liquidity is poor; you cannot sell fast at good value.
– Lack of diversification limits upside and increases downside.

A more balanced portfolio gives you stability, regular income, and better access to opportunities outside of Bangalore real estate.

Clearing Personal Loan First

– You have Rs.8 lakh loan with Rs.20k monthly EMI.
– Interest on this adds burden to your cash flow.
– Priority is to clear it quickly.
– Freeing up Rs.20k per month helps your investments.

Reducing debt is key before channeling money into new assets.

Retain Emergency Buffer

Your savings are just Rs.3 lakh. After repaying loan, keep at least 6 months’ expenses. That must be Rs.6 lakh.
This is essential to cover unexpected costs without dipping into investments.

Assessing Your Goals

– Your current monthly surplus is approx Rs.1 lakh (Rs.2 lakh rental minus Rs.1 lakh expenses and Rs.20k EMI).
– Goal 1: Ensure cash flow remains stable.
– Goal 2: Grow and diversify wealth via multiple assets.
– Goal 3: Plan for child’s future and your retirement.

We need a 360-degree plan that addresses each goal carefully.

Do You Need to Sell Property?

Selling land can help diversify.
But think about:

– Liquidity requirement: How much do you need now?
– Tax impact: On long-term capital gain on land sale; reinvest into new assets.
– Property pipeline: Will you lose appreciation potential?

A balanced strategy may include partial sale to diversify. You don’t need to sell everything. You can keep some land if future growth is expected and liquidity is not urgent.

Diversify into Debt Instruments for Stability

Once personal loan is cleared, channel about Rs.50k per month into fixed income tools:

– Bank fixed deposits or corporate FDs
– Debt mutual funds with safety and monthly income
– Recurring deposit for discipline

These options provide:

– Regular interest payouts
– Low volatility
– Liquidity for near-term needs

This will give you a stable income base beyond rent.

Choose Actively Managed Funds for Growth

For medium to long-term goals, invest in actively managed equity or hybrid mutual funds via regular plans (through MFD guided by a CFP).

Why actively managed funds?

– Managers can shift holdings based on market conditions
– They can protect capital during downturns
– They have the potential to outperform index returns
– They can adapt allocation between sectors

Do not invest in index funds or ETFs. They lack flexibility and downside management. Their passive structure prevents proactive defence during market stress.

Why Avoid Direct Mutual Funds

Direct fund investing can be tempting because of lower fees. But:

– You lose expert guidance on portfolio shifts
– No one helps with tax-efficient redemption timing
– Behavioural bias can lead to panic selling
– You may select wrong funds due to lack of research

Regular plans via a Certified Financial Planner give you:

– Fund selection support
– Periodic portfolio review
– Discipline in rising or falling markets
– Tax-aware exit planning

Asset Allocation Across Asset Classes

Here’s a structured mix for your surplus:

– Debt and fixed income (35–40%)
– This supports your monthly income and short-term goals
– Equity mutual funds (30–35%) via active management
– Provides long-term growth and inflation protection
– Hybrid/dynamic funds (10–15%)
– Helps balance equity and debt automatically
– Gold/alternative assets (5–10%)
– Gold already present; consider systematic gold plans
– Property (remaining allocation)
– Keep rental house and selected land parcels

This allocation reduces concentration risk while preserving real estate exposure.

Systematic Investment Plan for Equity

– Start SIP with Rs.30k–50k per month into actively managed equity funds
– Increase SIP annually as surplus grows
– Choose funds with consistent performance and good management
– A Certified Financial Planner helps select based on risk and goals

This builds wealth steadily with professional oversight.

Tapping Reinvested Rental Income

Your rental income surplus should be reinvested systematically instead of being spent.
This helps compound wealth without touching your capital base.

Monitoring and Rebalancing Strategy

– Conduct annual portfolio reviews
– Rebalance back to original allocation if any class strays more than 5%
– Exit or top-up based on performance
– A Certified Financial Planner will guide this process
– This keeps your plan aligned to risk and goal needs

Tax Efficiency Matters

– Be aware of capital gain taxes if you sell land
– Equity fund LTCG above Rs.1.25 lakh taxed at 12.5%
– Debt fund gains taxed as per your slab
– Using long-term holding reduces taxes
– A CFP helps schedule sales to minimise tax impact

Proper tax planning can save several lakhs over time.

Plan for Child’s Future and Education

You have one child. Future education needs should be funded.
This is a 7–15 year goal.

How to plan:

– Allocate part of your equity investments for child goal
– Use debt for near-term milestones
– Keep education corpus separate from your retirement and lifestyle funds

A CFP helps create those goal-based buckets.

Retirement Income Planning

Although property gives rental income, it can vary.
Set up a retirement corpus via mutual funds and fixed income.

– Aim for ?30–40 lakh corpus initially
– Invest monthly in debt and hybrid funds
– Once children’s education is funded, shift equity towards retirement corpus

This ensures steady passive income post-retirement.

Maintain Liquidity Reservoir

– After loan clearance, aim for liquidity of Rs.10–15 lakh
– Keep in high-interest savings or liquid funds
– Use only for emergencies or sudden expenses
– Avoid disrupting your investment plan

Liquidity keeps you stable even during volatility.

Insurance and Risk Cover

You did not mention health or life insurance. Review these:

– Term cover for you and child’s future security
– Health cover for hospital and illness expenses
– Protects savings and assets from unexpected events

Insurance is necessary support but not a substitute for investment.

Should You Sell Land Now?

Selling some land can:

– Release Rs.2 crore capital
– Provide funds for alternative investments
– Help diversify
– You could keep part if you expect future appreciation in Bangalore

Rather than selling all, consider partial sale. Use released funds to:

– Clear debt
– Build liquid investments
– Diversify with equity and debt

Role of Certified Financial Planner

A CFP will:

– Analyse your full financial picture
– Help select and review investment funds
– Guide you on tax optimisation
– Assist in portfolio rebalancing
– Counsel you during market turbulence

This support ensures your plan stays on track.

Lifestyle and Spending Habits

Your living expenses are Rs.1 lakh monthly including education.

– Keep lifestyle expenses consistent
– Avoid unnecessary upgrades if they damage savings
– Use rental surplus to enhance lifestyle gradually

This approach balances comfort with fiscal prudence.

Action Plan Summary

Clear your personal loan quickly

Keep emergency fund of 6 months expenses

Reinvest rental surplus into debt and equity

SIP in actively managed equity funds via CFP

Maintain liquidity buffer of Rs.10–15 lakh

Consider partial land sale for diversification

Review and rebalance annually with CFP

Plan child’s education with separate investment pool

Build retirement corpus in debt and equity mix

Ensure proper insurance is in place

Finally

– Your current wealth is strong but too realty-heavy
– You have surplus cash flow each month
– Start diversifying now to handle future uncertainty
– Use a Certified Financial Planner to guide investments
– Education, liquidity, retirement all need secure funding
– Proper plan and discipline will make this shift smooth

Your foundation is strong. Diversifying carefully will help you grow wealth safely and meet life goals with confidence.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

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

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10881 Answers  |Ask -

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

Asked by Anonymous - Sep 08, 2025Hindi
Money
I am 43. I have liquid savings of 1 crore. My monthly expenses are 40k and 100000 for yearly travel. I own a house and pay no rent. The house is worth 1.5 crores and own a land wprth 20 lakhs. My regular income is around 180000 per month to 240000 from my profession. I have no other responsibilities. I want to invest 60 lakhs of my savings in agriculural land and retire. Dp you siggest to wait or any other idea on how to improve my portfolio allocation.
Ans: You have done very well so far. You have a high income, no loans, a house, and land. You have Rs 1 crore liquid savings at age 43. That is a strong and rare position. Most people at 43 still pay EMIs. You have peace and flexibility. You also have the choice to retire early. You are asking the right question at the right time.

Below is a full 360-degree assessment. It will help you decide wisely. It will cover your portfolio allocation, retirement income safety, risk, and your plan to buy agricultural land.

» Your current financial strength

– You earn Rs 1.8 to 2.4 lakhs every month. This is very healthy.
– You have Rs 1 crore liquid savings. That gives you comfort and options.
– You own a house worth Rs 1.5 crores. You save on rent.
– You own land worth Rs 20 lakhs. It adds stability to your net worth.
– Your monthly expense is Rs 40,000. That is controlled compared to your income.
– Your yearly travel cost is Rs 1 lakh. That is a lifestyle choice you can afford.
– You have no other family responsibility right now. That reduces pressure.

You have built wealth carefully. This creates room to plan for growth and security.

» Your retirement dream and timing

– You want to retire. That is a major life decision.
– Retirement means no active income. All living costs must come from your investments.
– You need Rs 40,000 per month now. But inflation will increase this need.
– In 15 years, Rs 40,000 may become Rs 80,000 or more.
– So, your portfolio must grow, not just stay safe.
– Retirement also needs liquidity. You must avoid being asset rich but cash poor.

Agricultural land is illiquid. It does not pay monthly income. It may also have legal or operational risk. You must not depend on it for retirement income.

» Why agricultural land is a risky choice for retirement

– Agricultural land does not generate predictable income unless farmed or leased.
– Legal checks are complex. Ownership issues can arise in rural areas.
– Liquidity is low. Selling takes time, sometimes years.
– Price growth depends on local development. It is not predictable like equity.
– Stamp duty, legal cost, and registration increase total cost.
– Sometimes government policy changes impact use or transfer.

You can still buy if it is a passion. But not as the core retirement plan. At most, use a small part of savings, maybe 10-15%, for emotional value, not financial.

» The right portfolio allocation mindset

– You need growth, safety, and income in one plan.
– You need three buckets: emergency, growth, and income.
– Emergency: at least 12 months of expense in safe liquid instruments.
– Growth: equity mutual funds for long-term wealth creation.
– Income: debt mutual funds, deposits, or bonds for stability and predictable cash flow.

You must not put all in one asset like land. A balanced mix will give peace and power.

» Why actively managed mutual funds suit you

– Actively managed funds beat index funds in many Indian market cycles.
– Index funds just copy the market. They cannot protect during market fall.
– Active funds use fund manager skill. They adjust sectors, stocks, and risk levels.
– This helps protect wealth and capture growth.
– Direct funds look cheaper. But advice is missing. Wrong asset mix costs more than fee savings.
– Regular plans through a Certified Financial Planner and MFD align your plan with your goals.
– You also get tax guidance, rebalancing, and emotional control in tough markets.

You are not buying products. You are building a life plan. Active funds with guided allocation make that happen.

» A sample allocation approach for your Rs 1 crore liquid savings

– Keep Rs 15 lakhs in liquid and ultra-short debt funds for emergencies.
– Keep Rs 10 lakhs in safe fixed deposits or short-term debt funds for planned travel or life events.
– Allocate Rs 50 lakhs into diversified equity mutual funds through SIP and lumpsum.
– Allocate Rs 25 lakhs into conservative hybrid or debt mutual funds for income safety.

This gives liquidity, growth, and predictable income when you stop working.

» Retirement income planning approach

– When you retire, you can use a systematic withdrawal plan (SWP) from mutual funds.
– You can draw Rs 50,000 to Rs 80,000 per month safely depending on corpus size and market cycle.
– The remaining corpus continues to grow, beating inflation over time.
– This is more efficient than FDs or property rent.
– Tax is also more efficient under new mutual fund capital gain rules.

» Steps before you take action

– Review your health insurance. Make sure you and dependents are covered.
– Review your term insurance. Keep it till your financial independence is confirmed.
– Check nomination and wills for all assets.
– Do not commit large sums to illiquid assets before locking core retirement income.
– Use a Certified Financial Planner to build and monitor a customised allocation.

» Why waiting can be better than rushing into agricultural land

– Land cycles are slow. Prices may not grow for years.
– Your current portfolio gives you liquidity and power to act later.
– You can observe opportunities, not chase them.
– You may later find a better area or better use for money.
– You keep your options open. Flexibility is worth more than land in uncertain times.

» Risks to avoid at this stage

– Overconfidence from current high income.
– Assuming expenses will stay flat. Inflation will silently increase them.
– Locking too much into one asset. Diversification is your shield.
– Ignoring taxation on withdrawals. Tax planning must run with investment planning.
– Emotional buying of assets like land without a clear income or growth plan.

» Finally

You have built a strong base. You have the rare gift of choice. Please protect it. Buying agricultural land with Rs 60 lakhs now will reduce liquidity and increase risk. It may also delay your retirement security. You can still retire early if you build a balanced portfolio now. Keep enough for lifestyle, travel, and rising costs. Keep a mix of growth, safety, and liquidity. Use mutual funds actively managed with a Certified Financial Planner. That will improve your portfolio allocation and give you peace and steady income.

Waiting is not a delay. It is wisdom. Land may still be an option later in a smaller size, after your core plan is secure. You deserve both freedom and safety. With the right portfolio today, both are possible.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

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

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10881 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Sep 23, 2025

Money
Hello Sir, I am from Karnataka living in tier 3 coastal city , I am 52 yrs male, a freelancer having on average 15 to 20 lakhs income per year. Other than 2 residential flats which and 2 commercial property which yield income around 55k. I have 1 agriculture property , and a residential property which yield no income . I have some enquiry for agriculture land and i am in dilemma whether to sell it and invest money in PF and some commercial property which can yield some income for my future increasing expenses . Or i should sell other residential land and flats (12 years old) . I have a home without loan where i live. I have a SIP of 15000 pm and current MF portfolio of 24 lakhs. Kindly advice,Thanks in advance
Ans: You have shared your financial background with clarity. At 52 years, with multiple properties, rental income, and steady freelance earnings, you are already positioned with a strong foundation. Many people reach this stage without the discipline you have shown. Your concern about selling agricultural land or old residential flats and moving towards income-generating options is a valid thought. It shows you are planning with foresight for future expenses and cash flow stability.

I will give you a 360-degree perspective on this. The idea is to protect what you have, enhance cash flow, reduce risks, and prepare for rising expenses after 60 years.

» Present financial position

You have two residential flats and two commercial properties generating about Rs 55,000 rental income.

You own an agricultural land and another residential land not giving income.

You have a debt-free home where you live.

You earn Rs 15 to 20 lakhs annually as freelance income.

You have SIP of Rs 15,000 monthly and mutual fund portfolio of Rs 24 lakhs.

This is a strong mix of assets. Real estate, mutual funds, and freelance income together make your financial foundation quite solid.

» Importance of regular income at your stage

Your current freelance income is good. But it may fluctuate in future.

Expenses will keep rising due to inflation and lifestyle changes.

Rental income provides stability, but depending only on it is risky.

You will need income from multiple sources for comfort in retirement.

Hence, shifting some dead assets into income-generating options is wise.

» Thinking about selling agricultural land

Agricultural land usually does not generate regular monthly income.

It may have emotional or ancestral value, but financially it is idle.

If demand is there and you can get a good price, selling is practical.

Money can be reinvested into financial assets which give liquidity and growth.

So if you have genuine buyers and attractive price, this is a reasonable step.

» Considering sale of old residential flats

Residential flats over 10 years old face higher maintenance and lower rental yield.

Rental income from residential property is lower compared to commercial.

If you sell one residential flat, you can release a large amount of capital.

The proceeds can be invested in financial instruments which give more flexibility.

This is also an option if you prefer not to touch agricultural land.

» Which property to sell first

Between agricultural land and old residential flat, the agricultural land sale is better.

Reason: residential flat still generates rent, though low. Agricultural land generates nothing.

If selling agricultural land gives you lump sum, you can redeploy that for better returns.

If agricultural land sale is not possible now, then consider one flat.

So priority can be given to agricultural land disposal.

» Where to reinvest the sale proceeds

You are thinking of PF and commercial property. Let me explain.

Provident fund has restrictions and lock-in. At 52 years, starting fresh PF contribution is not ideal. Liquidity is low, and returns are not very high compared to inflation. It is better for salaried employees who have employer match, not freelancers.

Commercial property has higher yield, but also higher risk and management issues. Vacancy, maintenance, and legal complications can eat income. Too much real estate exposure makes your portfolio imbalanced.

So avoid locking money in new property or PF. Better options are available.

» Strengthening mutual fund investments

At present you have Rs 24 lakhs in mutual funds and SIP of Rs 15,000.

This needs to be scaled up once you liquidate agricultural land.

Mutual funds give liquidity, flexibility, and professional management.

Actively managed diversified equity funds are better than index funds.

Index funds look cheap, but they mirror the market without flexibility.

Actively managed funds handle volatility better and can generate alpha.

Investing through a Certified Financial Planner ensures discipline and guidance.

Regular plan investing is preferable over direct plan. Direct plans look cheaper but lack advice, monitoring, and risk review. Regular plans through professionals align better with your goals.

So part of the proceeds should go to mutual funds for growth.

» Debt and hybrid funds for stability

As you get older, stability is more important.

All money should not go into pure equity.

Debt funds and hybrid funds give balance of growth and safety.

They provide regular withdrawal options in retirement.

Even though debt funds are taxed as per slab, they offer liquidity and reduce volatility.

So, a mix of equity and debt is the right way.

» Emergency and medical safety

Keep 12 to 18 months of expenses in liquid instruments like FD or liquid funds.

You are self-employed, so income fluctuation risk is higher.

Check if you have adequate health insurance for yourself and family.

Medical inflation can disturb finances more than lifestyle inflation.

Having a large medical cover ensures peace of mind.

» Retirement income strategy

Your goal should be to create at least Rs 1.25 to 1.5 lakhs per month retirement income.

Current rental of Rs 55,000 is a good start.

SIPs and lump sum mutual fund growth will support the rest.

Plan systematic withdrawal from mutual funds after 60 years.

Rental + withdrawals + freelance (if continued) will give comfort.

This avoids dependence on only property rent.

» Tax considerations while selling

Sale of agricultural land: tax depends on whether it is rural or urban. Rural agricultural land is exempt. Urban agricultural land attracts capital gains tax.

Sale of residential property attracts capital gains tax, but reinvestment in financial assets is still better than reinvestment into another property.

Equity mutual fund sale: LTCG above Rs 1.25 lakhs taxed at 12.5%. STCG taxed at 20%.

Debt fund sale taxed as per slab.

You must plan sales and reinvestment keeping taxes in mind.

» Estate and succession planning

You own multiple properties. Passing them to heirs should be smooth.

Draft a will to avoid disputes later.

Mention how residential, commercial, and agricultural assets should be divided.

If you reinvest in mutual funds, nominate family members properly.

Succession clarity avoids family stress later.

» Managing lifestyle expenses

Rising expenses after retirement is a valid concern.

Future inflation at 6 to 7% will double expenses in 10 to 12 years.

Rental income may not rise at same speed.

Mutual funds, if continued, will grow faster than inflation.

That is why reinvesting agricultural land proceeds into mutual funds is better.

» Avoid over-exposure to property

You already have many real estate holdings.

They make your portfolio concentrated in one asset class.

Liquidity is low in property, and managing tenants is stressful with age.

By shifting one or two properties into financial assets, you balance risk.

This also gives flexibility for any sudden need.

» Finally

Selling agricultural land is a practical first step. If not, then sell an old flat. Avoid putting the money into PF or new commercial property. Strengthen your mutual fund portfolio with a mix of equity and debt through a Certified Financial Planner. Keep a strong emergency fund and health cover. Plan for systematic withdrawals in retirement. Draft a will for estate clarity.

You have worked hard to build these assets. With careful repositioning, you can meet rising future expenses and live comfortably without stress.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

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

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Latest Questions
Nayagam P

Nayagam P P  |10854 Answers  |Ask -

Career Counsellor - Answered on Dec 14, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Dec 12, 2025Hindi
Career
Hello, I am currently in Class 12 and preparing for JEE. I have not yet completed even 50% of the syllabus properly, but I aim to score around '110' marks. Could you suggest an effective strategy to achieve this? I know the target is relatively low, but I have category reservation, so it should be sufficient.
Ans: With category reservation (SC/ST/OBC), a score of 110 marks is absolutely achievable and realistic. Based on 2025 data, SC candidates qualified with approximately 60-65 percentile, and ST candidates with 45-55 percentile. Your target requires scoring just 37-40% marks, which is significantly lower than general category standards. This gives you a genuine advantage. Immediate Action Plan (December 2025 - January 2026): 4-5 Weeks. Week 1-2: High-Weightage Chapter Focus. Stop trying to complete the entire syllabus. Instead, focus exclusively on high-scoring chapters that carry maximum weightage: Physics (Modern Physics, Current Electricity, Work-Power-Energy, Rotation, Magnetism), Chemistry (Chemical Bonding, Thermodynamics, Coordination Compounds, Electrochemistry), and Maths (Integration, Differentiation, Vectors, 3D Geometry, Probability). These chapters alone can yield 80-100+ marks if practiced properly. Ignore topics you haven't studied yet. Week 2-3: Previous Year Questions (PYQs). Solve JEE Main PYQs from the last 10 years (2015-2025) for chapters you're studying. PYQs reveal question patterns and difficulty levels. Focus on understanding why answers are correct, not memorizing solutions. Week 3-4: Mock Tests & Error Analysis. Take 2-3 full-length mock tests weekly under timed conditions. This is crucial because mock tests build exam confidence, reveal time management weaknesses, and error analysis prevents repeated mistakes. Maintain an error notebook documenting every mistake—this becomes your revision guide. Week 4-5: Revision & Formula Consolidation. Create concise formula sheets for each subject. Spend 30 minutes daily reviewing formulas and key concepts. Avoid learning new topics entirely at this stage. Study Schedule (Daily): 7-8 Hours. Morning (5:00-7:30 AM): Physics concepts + 30 PYQs. Break (7:30-8:30 AM): Breakfast & rest. Mid-morning (8:30-11:00): Chemistry concepts + 20 PYQs. Lunch (11:00-1:00 PM): Full break. Afternoon (1:00-3:30 PM): Maths concepts + 30 PYQs. Evening (3:30-5:00 PM): Mock test or error review. Night (7:00-9:00 PM): Formula revision & weak area focus. Strategic Approach for 110 Marks: Attempt only confident questions and avoid negative marking by skipping difficult questions. Do easy questions first—in the exam, attempt all basic-level questions before attempting medium or hard ones. Focus on quality over quantity as 30 well-practiced questions beat 100 random questions. Master NCERT concepts as most JEE questions test NCERT concepts applied smartly. April 2026 Session Advantage. If January doesn't deliver desired results, April gives you a second chance with 3+ months to prepare. Use January as a practice attempt to identify weak areas, then focus intensively on those in February-March. Realistic Timeline: January 2026 target is 95-110 marks (achievable with focused 50% syllabus), while April 2026 target is 120-130 marks (with complete syllabus + experience). Your reservation benefit means you need only approximately 90-105 marks to qualify and secure admission to quality engineering colleges. Stop comparing yourself to general category cutoffs. Most Importantly: Consistency beats perfection. Study 6 focused hours daily rather than 12 distracted hours. Your 110-mark target is realistic—execute this plan with discipline. All the BEST for Your JEE 2026!

Follow RediffGURUS to Know More on 'Careers | Money | Health | Relationships'.

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Dr Dipankar

Dr Dipankar Dutta  |1840 Answers  |Ask -

Tech Careers and Skill Development Expert - Answered on Dec 13, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Dec 12, 2025
Career
Dear Sir/Madam, I am currently a 1st year UG student studying engineering in Sairam Engineering College, But there the lack of exposure and strict academics feels so rigid and I don't like it that. It's like they don't gaf about skills but just wants us to memorize things and score a good CGPA, the only skill they want is you to memorize things and pass, there's even special class for students who don't perform well in academics and it is compulsory for them to attend or else the student and his/her parents needs to face authorities who lashes out. My question is when did engineering became something that requires good academics instead of actual learning and skill set. In sairam they provides us a coding platform in which we need to gain the required points for each semester which is ridiculous cuz most of the students here just look at the solution to code instead of actual debugging. I am passionate about engineering so I want to learn and experiment things instead of just memorizing, so I actually consider dropping out and I want to give jee a try and maybe viteee , srmjeee But i heard some people say SRM may provide exposure but not that good in placements. I may not be excellent at studies but my marks are decent. So gimme some insights about SRM and recommend me other colleges/universities which are good at exposure
Ans: First — your frustration is valid

What you are experiencing at Sairam is not engineering, it is rote-based credential production.

“When did engineering become memorizing instead of learning?”

Sadly, this shift happened decades ago in most Tier-3 private colleges in India.

About “coding platforms & points” – your observation is sharp

You are absolutely right:

Mandatory coding points → students copy solutions

Copying ≠ learning

Debugging & thinking are missing

This is pseudo-skill education — it looks modern but produces shallow engineers.

The fact that you noticed this in 1st year already puts you ahead of 80% students.

Should you DROP OUT and prepare for JEE / VITEEE / SRMJEEE?

Although VIT/SRM is better than Sairam Engineering College, but you may face the same problem. You will not face this type of problem only in some top IITs, but getting seat in those IITs will be difficult.
Instead of dropping immediately, consider:

???? Strategy:

Stay enrolled (degree security)

Reduce emotional investment in college rules

Use:

GitHub

Open-source projects

Hackathons

Internships (remote)

Hardware / software self-projects

This way:

College = formality

Learning = self-driven

Risk = minimal

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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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