A friend of mine is aged 47 yrs is a salaried income is 1 lakh p m at present, he is away from his hometown and living in a good city in india with his family,he was having a 2bhk flat whick he has purchased in his hometown, against which he took a loan from someone fir 14 lakhs to repay his debt since 10 yrs ago,still the outstanding is 14 lakhs, in 2024 he will get some funds 4 lakhs approx ,what he must do in this situation, should he take back the property by paying slowly all the 14 lakhs in coming years ,or he will just leave the property and with his own money look for taking a new property, the old flat is in 4th floor not having lift.He is scared about the present property cost and how will he be building a new house in his hometown..kindly advise
Ans: Navigating Property Ownership: Assessing Options for Financial Security
Your friend's situation presents a complex decision regarding property ownership and financial stability. Let's evaluate the available options and recommend a course of action that aligns with his long-term financial goals and current circumstances.
Understanding the Current Situation
Property Ownership: Your friend owns a 2BHK flat in his hometown, which he purchased 10 years ago with a loan of 14 lakhs. Despite regular repayments, the outstanding amount remains the same.
Financial Constraints: With a monthly income of 1 lakh and family responsibilities, managing additional financial burdens can be challenging, especially considering the stagnant loan amount and potential property maintenance costs.
Evaluating Options
Repaying the Loan: Your friend can consider gradually repaying the remaining loan amount of 14 lakhs from the funds he expects to receive in 2024. This approach allows him to regain full ownership of the property, eliminating debt obligations.
Selling or Abandoning the Property: Given the property's location on the 4th floor without a lift and the uncertainty surrounding its market value, your friend may contemplate selling or abandoning the property altogether. This option frees him from loan liabilities and potential maintenance expenses but necessitates finding alternative housing solutions.
Exploring New Property Investment: With the funds received in 2024, your friend could explore investing in a new property that better suits his current needs and preferences. However, the feasibility of this option depends on various factors such as property costs, location, and financial constraints.
Considerations for Decision-Making
Financial Stability: Prioritize your friend's financial stability and ability to manage debt obligations and future expenses effectively.
Long-Term Goals: Consider your friend's long-term goals, including retirement planning, family needs, and property ownership preferences, when making decisions about property ownership.
Market Analysis: Assess the current real estate market trends in your friend's hometown to gauge the potential returns on investment and property appreciation prospects.
Seeking Professional Guidance
Encourage your friend to consult with a financial advisor or real estate expert to assess his options comprehensively and make informed decisions aligned with his financial objectives and circumstances.
Conclusion
Your friend's decision regarding the 2BHK flat ownership requires careful consideration of various factors, including financial stability, long-term goals, and market dynamics. By weighing the available options and seeking professional guidance, he can navigate this situation effectively and secure his financial future.
Best Regards,
K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,
Chief Financial Planner,
www.holisticinvestment.in