13 September, 2023
Unlock the doors to real estate success
Read time: 5 minutes

In today's edition:

  • In the news: Work from office, tax issue, and Apple
  • My thoughts on: Rainwater harvesting
  • Q&A: Floor space

IN THE NEWS
Handpicked stories from my weekly digest

Here are the 5 stories that you need to be aware of from this past week:

  • Mid-range homes still hot: A new survey finds that 59% of home buyers in India are still interested in mid-range and premium homes, even with rising prices. This is a 10% increase from 2020. Homes priced between Rs 45-90 lakh are most favoured, followed by homes priced between Rs 90 lakh to Rs 1.5 crore. Read more
  • Housing finance companies soaring: Housing finance companies in India are expecting a double-digit growth in FY23. This is despite the rising interest rates and inflation. The companies are confident that the demand for home loans will remain strong, as people continue to invest in real estate. Read more
  • Leasing real estate faces tax credit issue: The government has not yet clarified whether the tax credit for affordable housing will apply to leased properties. This is creating uncertainty for developers and investors. Read more
  • Work from office: A survey of CEOs finds that 90% of companies plan to return to the office by the end of 2024. This is a significant increase from a previous survey, which found that only 60% of companies were planning to return to the office. The shift is being driven by a number of factors, including the need for collaboration and innovation. Read more
  • Apple in focus: Apple has unveiled its new iPhone 15 and Apple Watch Series 9. The iPhone 15 features a new design with a smaller notch and a faster processor. The Apple Watch Series 9 has a new health sensor and a longer battery life. Read more

OPEN HOUSE ORIGINALS
Harvesting H2-Opportunities

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Image credits: Eco-Business

Rainwater harvesting (RWH) is a system meant for the collection of rainwater and storing it for future use. Rainwater can be collected from various surfaces and platforms. In most cases, the water is collected from rooftops and other hard surfaces and rainwater harvesting is considered to be the most reliable way to conserve water.

This technique has been around for a very long time, practised in ancient times. Over the past years, this method of water storage has gained ground and become quite popular. It plays a vital role in reducing the use of potable water and thereby increasing the reliability of rainwater.

Most buildings have a built-in catchment area on top of the roof, which has the capacity to collect large volumes of water in case of rainstorms. It has been made mandatory for builders to keep rainwater harvesting systems in their buildings as per the guidelines prescribed by the Union govt and state governments as part of a move to conserve water.

Easy setup: In both urban and rural settings, rainwater harvesting can be done quite easily. One of the simplest ways of storing water from the collection point is storage tanks. In most cases, the harvested water is usually redirected to storage tanks, cisterns or reservoirs. The roof of any building is the best way to harvest rainwater. There are numerous advantages in doing so.

Simple maintenance: The use of a rainwater harvesting system provides lots of benefits to any community. Firstly, the collection offers a better and greater utilisation of energy resources. It is important to note that potable water is usually not renewable, thus, reducing wastage. The system used for water collection is based on simple techniques that are very easy to maintain. The overall expenses incurred in setting up harvesting methods are much cheaper compared to other purifying means. Also, its maintenance is feasible on the economic front as it does not require deep pockets.

Reduced water bills: Water that has been stored from harvesting can be used for several non-drinking purposes. It will immediately reduce one’s utility bills. It is ideal for both residential and commercial properties.

Suitable for irrigation: Harvesting allows the collection of large amounts of water. Most rooftops provide the necessary platform for collecting water. Rainwater is usually free of harmful chemicals, which makes it ideal for irrigation purposes.

Recharging groundwater: Another important advantage is that it reduces demand for potable water. It is important, especially in areas with low water levels. The surplus rainwater can then be used to recharge groundwater aquifers through artificial recharge techniques.

Give conservation of rainwater a serious thought. You'll be doing well for not just the environment, but yourself as well.

ASK ASHWINDER

What is the difference between Built-Up Area, Super Built-Up Area, and Carpet Area?
- Sushant


Hi Sushant,

Carpet Area is the floor space of the apartment that does not include the area of the walls i.e. the area of the apartment that a carpet can cover. Built-Up Area includes the area covered by the walls. Super Built-Up Area includes the areas such as the lobby, lifts, stairs etc. This term is therefore only applicable for multi-dwelling units, such as flat complexes.


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Disclaimer: This newsletter is intended for informational purposes only and should not be construed as professional advice. Please conduct your own due diligence prior to making any decisions.

By Ashwinder R. Singh
Step up your real estate game with exclusive access to tribal knowledge accumulated over decades.
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