Five Tips for Property Maintenance

Property Maintenance

Property maintenance is an all-important activity that all property owners need to undertake to their house in good condition. For most people, buying a property is a huge investment and majority of them can afford to buy it only once in a lifetime. Considering the value of this asset, property maintenance can be of vital importance to a home owner. Below are five tips that can help you maintain your property effectively:

Check the house for damage and leaks

An essential step in property maintenance is to check the roof and other parts of the house on a regular basis for any sort of damage or leaks. If you find even the smallest of water leaks or cracks on walls, you must take care of these immediately so that it does not become a bigger issue later on. You should also check the pipes supplying water to different parts of the house for any damages that may require repairing.

Extermination

In order to keep your house away from any type of insects or rodents, it is important get pest control done on a regular basis. This will ensure your property is safe from the different types of damage that can be caused by the presence of insects or rodents. For this purpose, you can hire professional pest control experts who can get the job done.

Change filters in your air conditioning unit

For effective property maintenance, it can be helpful if you change the filters of the air conditioning unit at least once or twice a year. You can find out about the best available filter for your unit from its manufacturer. The filters get dirty after usage for a considerable length of time and changing them will stop contaminated air from entering your house. At the same time, it can also prevent the unit from malfunctioning.

Periodical checking of water tanks

One of the main issues that most buildings face today is the inadequate water proofing done in the water tanks resulting in water seepage through the apartments and the building. It is important to check whether the waterproofing is intact and to arrest any kind of damage that a leaking tank can do.

Regularly test detectors for carbon monoxide and smoke

If you have detectors for smoke or carbon monoxide installed in your home, you should test them regularly to check if they are in perfect working condition. In case of a fire or carbon monoxide leak in your house, it could be troublesome if these detectors do not function properly. These devices have a limited life and should be replaced as required.

A well-maintained property not only helps to keep your investment intact but also adds onto the property value if and when you plan to sell it.

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Modern House Plans – Designing a Relaxing Bathroom

Modern House Plans

The bathroom occupies a position of significance in modern house plans and happens to be one of the most crucial areas of the house. Having gone from being simply a functional place with no room for creativity, bathrooms in today’s homes are places of relaxation, a place where one can get refreshed at the start of the day or after a day’s long work, and a place to unwind. A bathroom can be designed in a million ways, and creativity can be expressed in everything, right from wall tiles and floor tiles to bathtubs and other bathroom paraphernalia.

Coastal Havens

One of the most popular bathrooms design is the beach design where one incorporates elements of the sea and the beach in the design. With turquoise, sea blue, teal, cerulean and bondi blue shades as colors for the walls, one can bring the coast right to the bathroom. Ginseng bone travertine tiles which give off a sandy look mirror the look of a calming beach. Sea-inspired accessories such as seashells, colored sand, pretty-looking pebbles and wild sea flowers make for some great accessories.

Pastel Shades

Nothing soothes the human mind better than pastel colors, and most modern house plans incorporate pastel colors for walls, floors and accessories in the bathrooms through an eclectic mix of different patterns for added interest. Pastel colors such as beige, nude, fallow, redwood and burnt sienna instantly conjure calming images. Additionally, shades of soft grey such as cadet gray and taupe gray have a naturally soothing feeling to it, so teaming up the color with white will work well for a calming effect. Medium coffee hues, light tans and ivories are soft on the eyes, providing a blank canvas for the eyes and invoking relaxation.

Accessories

Accessories around the bathroom play an important role in upping the ante on soothing effect. Wicker chaise lounges work as an excellent accessory in a bathroom with beige theme. Treasured finds such as pebbles, memorabilia and photographs give the bathroom a homely look. While most of us bring books or magazines into the bathroom, placing neat, little magazine racks or wicker baskets to place them instead of the floor is a great idea. Fresh flowers arranged in glassware make for excellent accessories on the basin and sinks. Candles are great romantic additions to the bathroom, and if one is a little skeptic about safety aspects, then oil diffusers are great replacements for candles with aromatherapy. A saltwater fish tank also makes for a great addition.

Spa Retreats

Wood is the popular material of choice when it comes to creating a natural, spa-like bathroom. Bringing an earthy feel to the room, wood flooring gives off a seamless look. Chrome accents, white fixtures and beige limestone walls finish off the look. A curved bathtub softens the look of the area, adding to the relaxing atmosphere. To finish off the look, a walk-in shower with glass walls and large mirrored cabinets is an excellent addition.

Apart from the above, modern house plans also include monochrome as well as glamorous bathrooms to match the style and persona of their owners.

Life can be a perennial holiday if your home is at Panorama Hills

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Interior Design for Kids Room

Interior Design of Kid’s Room

Interior design for the kids room is where you can unleash your creativity to transform an ordinary looking boring room into a fun haven. A bunk room, a camp room, a tree house loft, a pirate’s cove or a barbie’s bedroom; the choices are unlimited. It would be ideal to select an interior design theme that your child loves.

In most apartments unless there is an extra room for the kids, the bedroom is used as a study room, as well. This is a space where you will need one corner for his books, projects, computer and study table and another for his/her toys. So it would be better to opt for bunk type bed complete with a ladder or a slider. This bed gives more floor space for a child to move around the room and would also appeal to his sense of adventure to slide out of the bed every morning and launch himself into a new day.

Tree house Hideaway

Perfect for a pirate, you could design the hide away bed on a tree house bunk bed and use the resulting space down for a comfortable sofa. Custom made bunk beds can feature many other interesting features that would save much space in the room. Cabinets and bookshelves can be built beneath the space that the bunk bed creates and a study nook can be created here for the child.

Barbie Double Bunkers

In households where two kids need to share a room, one could go for double bunk beds. For an all-girls room, pink is the hot colour. Soft curtains and carpets and a dainty ladder to climb to the bunk beds, one can envision the excited whispers when the kids step into this fairy world.

Study Nook

If there is enough and more space in the room, then the kid can have a bigger study nook. A vertical row of cabinets to keep all his science projects, a large table for his computer and books and a cupboard to keep his mini library of books.

Playroom

If a child is a toddler and is yet to get a room of his own, then the interior design of the kids room can feature many playroom elements. A large colourful carpet at the center of the room and cabinets bordering the room to store those umpteen number of games and that wooden horse waiting to be mounted.

Whimsical paintings, lights and accessories with bright colours are some of the popular features of a kids room. Though shades of pink and yellow are oft repeated colours, cobalt blue, light green, off white and light brown are also used in this space.

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Basics of Property Insurance

Property Insurance

Property insurance is critical before purchasing any property. This is because when you purchase a property, you don’t buy it just for the sake of living, but also for finding a security of shelter and financial security through a massive investment. If you think about the security of the property in depth, you will realize as such there is no security for this security itself. What if your property gets damaged by fire? What if your property gets destroyed due to some terrorist activity? What if the property is attacked by robbers? In all such situations, your property’s security itself gets jeopardized. The only way to protect your property from such insecurity is to get a property insurance.

Often people do not understand the basics of insurance and which is why they do a lot of mistakes while taking an insurance policy for their property. The concept of insurance started long back at the European inns where traders used to assemble. Often these traders faced huge loss due to robbery on the way. So these traders who met at the inns kept some small amounts of deposits in a common fund and when someone got robbed they helped that person out of that common fund. Though modern day concept of property insurance is much more complex than its original concept, but the essence still remains the same. Nowadays, the common fund that is collected is not just kept as security deposit but is also invested in other areas, which helps in growth of this fund. Since, the modern concept of property insurance is much more complex, you need to know some basic facts before you deposit your money in such insurance funds.

Firstly, you need to know about the policy document. Policy is the contract that you enter into with the insurance company. They provide a document signed and stamped by them and get it counter-signed by you. This is going to be your policy document, a proof for your policy. This document contains all the information related to your insurance policy. Secondly, you need to know about the insurance coverage. This is the clause in your policy contract which gives details about the property insurance done by you viz. particulars of the property insured, amount of money receivable by you in the event of any damage or destruction to your property. Moreover, it also contains the clause where it is stated the amount of premium payable by you. Premium is the amount of deposit you regularly make in the common fund.

Another important factor that you should know before going for any property insurance is the exclusion clauses of the coverage. In certain situations, you do not get cover for any damage caused to your property like an acts of God i.e. destruction by flood, earthquake, etc. Even in case of damage due to negligence, intentional acts and many such other reasons you might end up not getting the coverage. So it is very important to read the between the lines of the entire policy terms and conditions, and then go ahead to sign on the policy document.

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Real Estate Heaven: Million Dollar Homes

Bill Gates

Photo Credit: Domain Barnyard

The demand for million dollar homes has been increasing even under economic downturn across the globe. Though, most economies of the world are seeing a setback, the real estate sector has not been preyed by this situation as such, especially in terms of the luxury residential projects. The sales of luxury residential properties have been experiencing a growing trend over the past few years. Market analysts see this situation as a combined effect of several factors including a rise in the number of high-net-worth individuals, changing lifestyle of the people, fast urbanization, etc.

And when you think about million dollar homes, you cannot but stop thinking about those coveted millionaires who possess such exquisite homes that are no doubt flamboyantly designed. Among the million dollar homes, Bill Gates home ranks high because of its world-class features. Many consider it as a benchmark in technology and automation that could be brought into all million dollar homes. Being a seasoned techie, he has put technology and style in the right mix to embellish his million-dollar abode the rich way.

Located at Medina, this dream home has been designed by the renowned James Cutler, and James has burned the midnight oil to ornate Bill’s home with unique and most sought-after features. While photos of Bill’s priceless home is doing the rounds on the World Wide Web, only little has been known about the interiors and that would probably for security reasons.

Harnessing technology to the best use, the entire house is microchip tagged which in turn is backed by optical cables of close to 52 miles length. All staffs of the house have been provided with tags that are linked back to the microchip controls, that automates nearly everything in the house from opening doors, air conditioning, lighting and even the music. All these happen instantaneously and automatically when they step in to each room.

Million dollar homes are never complete without a special place to relax and unwind. For entertainment, a large and spacious outdoor swimming pool located in the garden area, adjoining to the pool is an aesthetically designed pool house which is replete with all facilities. In addition to that, to host high-profile guests there is also a banquet area that could easily accommodate 150 guests. To accommodate more people, an area spanning around 6300 sq ft is available as an underground parking lot which at any can accommodate 10 SUVS to limousines at any given point of time. This is in addition to the two spacious garages that are available over the ground.

To leave no stone unturned and keep things under control with no scope for untoward activities, this magnificent house is secured with top notch and high quality floor sensors and cameras literally everywhere that provide exhaustive security coverage.

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Style Ideas for a French Country House

Country House

Photo Credit: dbking

A French country house can be both eye-catching and cozy, and is often the most popular option as a holiday home. Tucked on the rolling hillsides of the France, French country homes exude elegance by incorporating both subdued and vibrant hues, distressed woodwork, ruffles and Parisian craftsmanship and design. The contemporary styles have slightly gotten lighter, with a mix of traditional and modern sensibilities and décor.

Most French country homes have a grand foyer, which serves as the welcoming place for guests who spill-over during parties and other big gatherings. This area needs to be welcoming and warm, which is provided by soft area rugs and a simple bench or pair of chairs covered in stamped, simple linen with floral designs. Classic French country living rooms are the ones with the high ceilings, so upholstered, pale and simple furniture suits the place. The area is further beautified with the presence of antique armchairs with beautiful fabrics, pine mantels and maybe a grandfather clock. Provincial patterns and beautiful fabrics are hallmarks of a French country home, and the delicate patterns, lacy accents, trims, pretty fringes, and soft colors are popular with all sorts of furniture. The kitchen in a French country house in today’s day and age combines elements of traditional and contemporary charm. Marble-and-wood and stone kitchen islands are popular, with white, grey, cerulean, grey-blue, beige and other coffee hues being the colors of choice for the cabinets, kitchen surfaces, walls and flooring. Bead board paneling, antler trophies, porcelain glove models, and vintage-style appliances add to the classic rural, country home look. Some French-style kitchens even have contrasting glam lighting and cabinets against a distressed wood harvest table or a kitchen island.

The hallways in French country homes usually are stately, spacious and imposing, and can be accessorized with beautiful ceiling lanterns along their length. Dining rooms are formal and contemporary, with modern furniture contrasted with vintage upholstery and wallpaper. Dark wood tables and chairs, floral upholstery and contemporary light fixtures such as an ebony-mesh pendant with orange dinner lights keep the tone muted and the space casual yet classic. French-style bathrooms traditionally have cast iron tubs, ornate wall sconces, delicate glass urns and bowls for bathroom paraphernalia, accessories, candles and maybe potpourri, with some homes going even as far as having a candelabrum and antique chest of drawers.

French country house bedrooms exude romance and drama. All-white or teal and light-blue toned hues are popular colors for bedrooms. Vintage beds, paper chandeliers, linens, draperies, and bow-front dressers notch up the antique quotient of the bedroom. Apart from these essentials, no French country home is complete without an eye-catching stone fireplace. Accessories and furnishings within the home can be Frenched up easily. For example, instead of going in for run-of-the-mill coat hangers, look for vintage monogram coat hooks. Go in for rich wallpapers and full-length curtains and draperies. Invest in oversized wall clocks and distressed wood sideboards. Armoires are signature furniture pieces in French country homes that prove to be extremely handsome decorative statements.

Book a holiday home at Panorama Hills, vizag

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by Balaji R via Visakhapatnam, Vizag | Apartments, Flats, Homes, Houses, Plots, Property, Properties, Real Estate, Villas | for Sale | Shriram Panorama Hills

Solar Lighting and Energy Efficiency

Energy Efficiency

Off late, solar energy has become the most preferred option to achieve energy efficiency. Solar Energy primarily refers to the use of solar emitted energy or solar radiation to use it for practical purposes such as running a machine, vehicles at an industrial level and electrical equipment such as lights, fans both at a domestic level.

This in turn contributes in saving other conventional fuels like petroleum, diesel, electricity and also human labor. Though all energies except geothermal and tidal energies come from the sun, a lot of energy efficiency can be achieved from the use of solar energy in particular. Solar energy is generally utilized in products such as solar cookers, solar lights and fans, solar vehicles or solar thermal rooms. Solar energy can be transformed into electrical energy to run electrical appliances necessary for human survival.

Power bills can be significantly reduced if solar lightings are installed at the domestic level. In this regard, a solar-powered LED lighting is of great help and can be installed at all homes in a cost-effective manner. Scientists regard this technology as the future of lighting technology which would be both economical and effective. With solar-powered LED lights, much of the energy crisis can be tackled, if this system of lighting is adopted on a large scale. The individual households and the society at large would be benefited because of the solar lighting technology.

Generally when compared to traditional lighting, the technology the solar lights demonstrated greater energy efficiency and LED bulbs generally do not require much energy to get illuminated. Moreover, the glow of the LED bulbs is much more than the traditional lights. Another reason why the LED lights are more economical than traditional lights is that they last longer, helping to curtail replacement costs.

Many people prefer to light up their rooms with colored illumination. For this, the solar LED lights are the perfect choice. To provide a variety of options, Solar LED light producers manufacture lights that have colored glow such as orange, yellow, blue, green, red and many more. They even sell lights with various effects such as dimming, which make it a better preference over other lights like ordinary bulbs and CFLs. Another great advantage of the solar LED lights is that they cause no harm to the environment and are the best choice of lights, especially in a city like Chennai where the sun shines bright and sunny almost round the year.

Today, many gated communities are adopting an eco-friendly lifestyle by replacing conventional electric lights to solar powered ones. If you are planning to invest in Chennai real estate then you should check out Shriram Shankari a premium community in Guduvanchery; a sustainable home to reduce our carbon footprint on the earth.

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SHR023: Madras Nalla Madras – An interview with Dr. P Desikan

Listen to this podcast for a nostalgic experience of “Madras” by Dr. P. Desikan who is a third generation Chennai’ite born and brought up there. He shares with us his journey through Madras to Chennai.

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NRIs: Things you Should Know Before Buying a House in India

NRI Property

After living abroad for a few or many years, the logical thing that most NRIs want to do is invest in a property. It makes perfect sense to be thinking of getting back to India and having a home to go back to. However, there are some aspects that people living abroad should thoroughly research and think through before taking such a step. Summarized below are the top five things –

Home Loans

There are many financing options for Indians abroad to fund their property purchase. Home loans are the most common option for the bulk of the payment. However, NRIs are only eligible for a home loan amount of up to 80% of the house cost, and they have to fund the balance themselves. This remittance can be done through usual banking channels via the NRO/NRE or the FCNR accounts. Another option is to take a foreign currency loan from their “home” country (where they reside currently), but there could be considerable foreign exchange risks. People need to be even more careful if the building is under construction and the payment is to be made in tranches, based on the completion of work.

Property Registration

People should determine the ownership pattern in advance lest they want to be tied up in numerous litigations once they set foot back in the country. Additionally, keeping in mind the health and safety factor, it is always advisable to have the property under two/joint names instead of a single name (not advisable from estate planning perspective). Also, one should decide whose name is to come first (for tax liabilities and eligible deductions).

Income taxes applicable

An NRI is liable to pay the registration fee and stamp duty towards purchasing a house. He/she is also eligible for all the benefits that resident Indians get on the interest paid towards a home loan. In case the property has been rented out/leased, then the income they receive is deemed as “Income from House Property” and it is taxed according to the usual tax slabs in India.

Documents

NRIs should make sure that the seller has the authority to sell the same in case he does not own it. The No Due certificate should also be produced by the seller which stipulates that there are no outstanding civic/water/electricity dues at the time of sale. The property should also have all the necessary permits and approvals from the concerned civic authority of that city with regard to layout and construction. The house should also not be under any sort of litigations.

Other miscellaneous costs

NRIs need to know that the purchase price is not the only money that they will be shelling out from their pocket. Other hidden costs such as mortgage fees, inspection fees, legal fees, brokerage, and stamp duty also need to be factored into their calculations, lest there are any unpleasant surprises later.

Looking to invest in Vizag? Check out Panorama Hills

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by Balaji R via Visakhapatnam, Vizag | Apartments, Flats, Homes, Houses, Plots, Property, Properties, Real Estate, Villas | for Sale | Shriram Panorama Hills

Penthouse Pool and Spa Ideas

Penthouse Pool

Photo Credit: smik2002

If a penthouse is the epitome of luxury then a penthouse pool is surely the icing on the cake. Now who wouldn’t like to take a lap under the stars and the moon? A perfect luxury element, a penthouse pool, can be that refuge to shed the stress of the day.

Penthouse pools do not need a lot of space. Even a small rectangular space at the end of the terrace would make a great pool. Many prefer to go in for custom design rather than the same Old Square or rectangle shaped pool designs. Round and curved shaped designs with submerged stools, edges that are broad enough to serve, as tables are very popular.

If the terrace area is small, then one can opt for small sized mini plunge pools. This setting allows one to plan seating with comfortable lounge seats, mini benches with cushions and a mini bar to celebrate with.

Today many prefer to set their penthouse with a beautiful terrace garden with spring flowers, organic vegetables and enchanting creepers. A penthouse pool would complete your terrace garden beautifully.

If the space is small, a long stretch of rectangle pool will work well so long as you have stunning dramatic view of the cityscapes. A beautiful step in pool with a jacuzzi can more than make up for the lack of space. Light up the pool with inbuilt LED lights and take a sip of that chill champagne to reflect on a perfect life.

Some penthouse pools also feature a waterslide access to slide into the cool refreshing waters without wasting any time. Now that’s modern architecture for you!

To create a spa like atmosphere, one needs to put in other elements such as the right colour, furniture and build it around a theme. Garden pools can be built amidst beautiful spring flowers, creepers and grass growing between the tiles. If you are a lover of sculptures and stone, go for a stone bordered pool and abstract stone figures and statues to dot the landscape. If the pool is large enough you could use stone pavers to provide a lovely texture to the pool space.

Selecting the right furniture and colour theme is also important to the pool décor. Most go for relaxed decors sans frills to entertain their guests by the pool. Soft cushions with rounded edges, large settees with loads of cushion, bamboo cane sofas or rock boulder tables, are some cool ideas for pool décor. Predominantly the colours of the pool are blue and green ranging from cobalt blue to light sea blue.

A penthouse pool is the ultimate luxury that one can enjoy with breath-taking views. With a great design and spa-like décor elements, your life could be a beautiful holiday every day!

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by Sridhar Kulkarni via Shriram Properties Bangalore

Five Makeovers to Convert an Old House into a Real Estate Dream

Real Estate Dream

In today’s competitive real estate realm, each and every aspect of the house counts. While we have always been taught that it is what on the inside that counts, the outside is equally important when it comes to one’s home. Summarized below are top five makeover tips when it comes to giving those drab exteriors and dingy interiors of an old house a generous dose of touch-up and converting them into a coveted realty dream –

Bedroom makeovers

Bedrooms have ceased to be simple, plain and functional – they are classy, elegant and welcoming. Plain bedrooms can easily be converted into an elegant space by doing away with basic wallpapers and dropped ceilings and instead going in for primer-coated pine planks, elegant hardwood floors, classy matching headboards, soft, woolen or dhurrie rugs, classic Ethiopian or Egyptian cotton drapes for the windows and freshly painted walls. Homeowners can even add bedrooms in a home by converting crawl spaces and lofts into a small but spaced out functional guest bedroom. The room can be done up in soft colors such as beige or white that make the space appear expansive, and a staircase or curtains can separate this room from the rest of the house.

Kitchen makeovers

A home cannot become a real estate dream without the kitchen being a part of the makeover. Tile counters and old cabinetry can be replaced by subway tiles, functional Ikea units and open shelves neatly stacked with pots, pans and dishware. The bulky and outdated wooden kitchen island can be upgraded to stone countertops, lapboard, crown molding and a touch of fresh paint. In order to make a tiny kitchen look bigger and for the kitchen to look ordered, painting the spaces, cabinets and ceiling in white uplifts the look of the kitchen. Regular fixing of faucets and cleaning of cabinets will always give the space clean and pleasing look.

Bathroom makeovers

Bathrooms today have ceased to be forgotten functional spaces in the house that were only a necessity – today they reflect the personality of the homeowners. Retaining the layout of the space, the bathroom can be revamped by updating the plumbing lines instead of spending on shifting them completely, installing single sink consoles and updating showerheads.

Entryway makeovers

The entryway to the house sets the tone for it. A mudroom-like, gloomy entryway can be completely transformed into a more welcoming one by adding a fresh layer of bright paint such as carmine, crimson, lava or rosso corsa red will make the space look very inviting indeed by accentuating the brightness and giving it drama. Grouped cohesive art, large, new mirrors, consoles and wicker baskets for stashing backpacks and footwear, narrow benches to enable guests to wear/remove their shoes and a striped woven rug for the foyer will beautify the entrance.

Exterior makeover

The adage “First impressions are lasting impressions” stands true in the case of real estate. Swept steps, trimmed bushes, clean yard, mowed lawn, matching flowers, and a half-moon gate makes for a house that is impossible to overlook from the outside.

Find your dream home in the integrated township of Panorama Hills

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SPH071: An Interview on Terrace Gardening

Janani Eswar, an avid nature lover, an enthusiast and the author of the book “The Lazy Gardener” gives us us some simple, easy tips to start up a terrace garden. Listen to this podcast to know more.

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by Shriram Panorama Hills Vizag via Visakhapatnam, Vizag | Apartments, Flats, Homes, Houses, Plots, Property, Properties, Real Estate, Villas | for Sale | Shriram Panorama Hills

Property Management Services for Premier Properties

Premier Properties

Most often people invest their income in premier properties be it a plot or an apartment, as an investment to make a profit when their value rises. However, it is not always possible for the property owners to visit the site regularly and maintain it. In some cases, the owners might be in another state or abroad. Therefore, to provide a solution to this problem many property management companies have mushroomed in the recent times.

The benefits of using the services of property management companies are manifold. Firstly, it allows the owner to breathe in ease while someone is maintaining and looking after the property. Secondly, property management is a difficult task which requires expertise. Therefore, for better maintenance of the property, professional property management services are of great help. Many find it easy to entrust the maintenance of the property to such companies enabling them to invest in various properties at different places at the same time, without worrying about managing them. Property management companies also arrange for tenants and take care of the upkeep of the building. Many serious investors and real estate players find it easy to hand over the maintenance of their premier properties to such companies.

The different kinds of premier properties for which the property management companies provide their services are independent houses, flats, villas, rented houses and commercial buildings. Whenever you hire the services of property management companies, they would arrange for tenants to whom you can let out your property. They would put up advertisements on local newspapers for your letting out your property. You would not have to choose the tenant, but they would choose the apt tenants for your premier properties. They maintain adequate clarity as they give a complete report containing the list of tenants and reasons why they were accepted or rejected. However, before finally allowing someone to live in your property they would take your permission and execute all necessary paper works.

After letting out your property, the property management company would regularly collect rent from the tenants on your behalf and deposit the money straight into your bank account. Moreover, after the tenants move in, the company would regularly inspect your property for any kind of damages. During the inspections, they would also capture images of the property to send you copies of them for proper transparency. They also take up repair and renovation works from time to time for your premier properties.

If buying premier property is tough, maintaining it is equally tough. Thankfully with the help of property management companies, one can rest easy that their investment is well taken care of.

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Feng Shui Taboos for the Bedroom

Feng Shui Taboos

Photo Credit: Remind

One would be surprised by the things that feng shui hold as taboo in the bedroom. In the olden days, bedroom was a space where people slept, relaxed and rejuvenated. It was a simple space with a bed and a closet. However, today bedrooms are designed differently from the old houses. All bedrooms, today, come with an attached bathroom, walk in closets with mirrors, balcony, etc.

In the earlier days, bathroom were located in the far end of the house near the garden area but such house plans are not possible in today’s apartments hence attached bathrooms. It is impossible to change the house plan, but we can always remove certain items from the bedroom that are taboo according to feng shui.

Plants

Do not keep plants, living, artificial or dry in the bedroom. Basic science teaches us that plants emit carbon dioxide in the night so it is best to avoid them especially in the bedroom. Many house decors opt for cactus plants as a décor element to keep up with their theme. However little do they realize that the cactus adds to the negative energy causing relationships to go bad. Having a cactus in the bedroom is a big taboo in feng shui. Similarly, many grow bonsai trees in their house. Admittedly bonsai trees are nice to look at, but they adversely affect growth. Bonsai trees are stunted in nature therefore they too emit negative energy and must be avoided in the bedroom.

Colours

Avoid black and blue colour palettes especially in the bedroom. Black is the favourite colour of many but painting the walls black or getting a black bed is not advisable especially where the bedroom is concerned. Blue represents water elements. Though blue is a great colour to use in interiors, it certainly isn’t the right colour for the bedroom.

Water Elements

As mentioned above, water element is a big taboo in feng shui especially in bedrooms. There are many who prefer to keep aquariums, flowing water fountains in their bedroom. Water elements give a cool atmosphere in a space allowing one to relax, however, it also kills passion; a vital element in one’s relationship. Art representing flowing water, fountain or even a river is a strict no-no in the bedroom.

Mirrors

Most bedrooms have mirrors. With space becoming sacred, many apartments cannot have walk-in closets or powder rooms for us to get ready. So it is always a nook in the bedroom where we need to install a mirror. However, mirrors are a big taboo in feng shui. One way to get around this problem is to make sure that the mirror does not face the bed. If that is not possible, the other alternative would be to keep it covered.

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NRI Home Loan: Are you eligible?

NRI Home Loans

Over the last few years, Indians settled abroad, otherwise known as NRI have invested heavily in India’s real estate market. This is because they earn in a stronger currency and pay in rupees. To enable them to buy properties of their choice, the government allows them to avail loans. So, what are the exact terms which you need to fulfill to get bank loans as an Indian living abroad?

As per the existing rules of the Reserve Bank of India, any Indian citizen who holds a valid Indian passport and resides abroad for employment purpose or to carry out business over an uncertain period of stay is a non-resident Indian. So, people eligible for home loans include working professionals and businessmen as well as diplomats posted in other countries as well as those serving in international organizations like IMF and World Bank.

Home loans are sanctioned for properties that are under construction, renovations to existing property as well as the ones that are ready for possession. However, NRIs are not allowed to buy agricultural land. Qualifications, as well as income, play a great role in deciding the highest amount which you can borrow from a bank. Usually, financial institutions provide 80-85% of the loan, depending on the gross monthly income (GMI) of the person. The maximum amount of money that could be sanctioned in your name is around 36-40 times more than your GMI. Some of them also follow the ratio of EMI to your Net Monthly Income.

The period during which an NRI can avail loans is between 5-15 years. Extensions below 15 years are provided under exceptional circumstances only. However the rates of interest that you will have to pay as part of the remittances are higher. Banks usually charge 0.25% – 0.50% as interest rates. The documentation process which you will have to undergo is different from that meant for residents. You will have to submit copies of your passport and valid VISA and work permit, certificates confirming your work experience, contract of employment, salary certificate, as well as statements of NRENRO. If you are settled in the Middle East, then you will also need to submit a copy of your employment card. In cases where 1your salary is not credited to a bank, then your salary certificate will need to be attested by the Indian Embassy at the country of your employment.

NRIs can make repayments in Indian rupees through your NRE (non-resident external) or NRO (non-resident ordinary) accounts with remittance from the country where you reside. You can use no other funds to make repayments. In the event of a change in your status from NRI to resident, the loan will be reworked on the basis of your changed income as well as the tenure and applicable rates of interest charged.

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Furnishing a Penthouse

Furnishing a Penthouse

Photo Credit: Foxtongue

Penthouse is all about city silhouettes and great picturesque views of the fast city. Most penthouses have a floor to ceiling glass wall to give us an unparalleled view of the busy city out there so it goes without saying that the furniture that is selected for this space should not hinder the view.

White and pastel colours are most favoured themes of interior designers when it comes to penthouses. White gives a clean look to the entire space and since most penthouses are high up in the sky, the pristine blue sky would be yet another colour that would permeate into the house through the glass windows.

If your living room has a lovely view of the city below then create a center space with a floor carpet and arrange the sofas around this space. Go for light coloured palette as it not only gives one the illusion of a larger space but also provides a balanced look, as the view would supply the rest of the myriad colour. Keep a backless settee or floor cushions pushed up to one corner of the view so that your guests can enjoy the best that a penthouse could offer.

Go for a light coloured dining table with an eclectic mix of chairs. Since antique chandeliers might look a bit out of place here, you could go for pendant lights of varying heights or one pendant light that could act as a focal point.

Bedrooms can be light brown with contrasting dark colours. Most penthouse bedrooms are designed to give the resident a fantastic view of the city below. And all it needs is a thick soft carpet to sink your feet in and soft bed to lounge about, as you count the stars.

Those who have a large terrace space can opt for an open-air dining table to dine with their friends and to party. A long table with cushioned bench and a few lights to dot the sky and you will be all set to host a memorable party.

Bathrooms are the true luxury of penthouses. From whirlpools to jacuzzi, soak in and enjoy the best that life can offer. Penthouse bathrooms also offer great views of the cityscape, so most of them prefer to fit in one-way glass windows to keep an eye on the city even as they bathe!

Pool tables and home theatres are yet another feature that shout luxury for penthouses. If you want to set a game nook in the house, then select a space that offers great views and set your table there. Home theatres do need a larger space so go for a center space and set it up with a large divan in the center and a soft rug in the middle with some soft cushions to lie around.

Be minimalistic in style. Penthouses are all about luxury and sophistication. This isn’t a country house or a Spanish villa to display antiques and lace. Penthouse home styles are contemporary additions that focus more on simple and minimal décor elements sans clutter.

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Elements of French Country Home Decor

Country Home Decor

Take anything ‘french’ and you will find that it connotes with casual elegance and French country home decor is no different. This décor style is all about splashes of colour and warmth. There is more emphasis on using natural products and adding a lot of rustic elements to bring about a warm earthy atmosphere. That’s French for you.

It isn’t easy to create a warm inviting room. Go for colours that bring out the sunny side of life; lavender, pale yellow, sunny gold, sage green. Pastel colours are a huge favourite in this décor style.

Furnishing for a French country home décor might get a bit tricky, as this style favours antique furniture with gilded accents. This décor style also uses a lo

Country Home Decor

t of wrought iron furniture as well, that would available easily in flea markets. Handcrafted furniture is an oft-repeated element in this decor.

Kitchens are a joy to design in this décor style. Go for soft neutral colours and old cabinet styles. Warm drapes and some flowers on the countertop, an old-fashioned click and a cabinet to store wines, you will believe yourself to be French and cook up a storm to prove it.

The dining room in this country home decor is allowed to be an eclectic mix of antique and vintage. Handmade table with mismatched chairs and patterned upholstery are some of the common favourites that you would come across. Just hang a wrought iron chandelier on the top and add a vase of wild flowers your casual dining table is ready and inviting.

Go for light coloured drapes and lacy panels. This décor style favours the grace of sun and its many myriad colours. So your living room can have cosy recliners, arm chairs, upholstered chairs and of course French windows. Many also go for wrought iron garden bench as a window seat to enjoy the bountiful nature.

In the bedroom, go for old-fashioned roof with beams and French windows. Contrasting dark and white is a favourite theme in this décor style. If you prefer to keep it a bit more formal, go for glazed furniture and a lovely crystal chandelier.

Everything is relaxed in a French country home décor. So are the bathrooms. If rustic is your theme, then go for reclaimed wood vanity to store towels and an odd bottle of wine too. Many lay out reclaimed French limestone tiles to bring out the authentic feel and plan the interior so that the patio doors open towards the garden. Now how quaint is that?

For exteriors go for stucco type facades and garden landscaping with hedges. Those who have space, lay out a long cool pool with deck chairs to lounge about and gravel path to the house.

French country decors are all about rustic charm and a bountiful life that one can enjoy with all things natural. To enjoy this décor style, your home should ideally be situated within a green haven.

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All about Capital Gains Tax

Capital Gains Tax

Inherited properties form a major part of capital gain tax, as far as Indian market goes. Although there is no cost of acquisition involved in such an inheritance, there is an occurrence of gain in the form of transfer of ownership. For computing capital gains, income from equity, debt, gold and real estate investments are considered. Any such assets held for a period from one to three years is termed as long term capital gain and equity assets held for less than a year are termed as short term capital gains. The other assets, namely debt and gold that are in possession for less than a year and real estate investments held less than three years, are included in the investor’s income and taxed according to the slab rate.

The elements that are taken into account while computing taxable capital gains are the cost of acquisition, cost of improvement and cost of transfer, which are considered in total for STCG (Short-term Capital Gain) and an indexed cost of acquisition, improvement and transfer are computed for LTCG (Long-term Capital Gain). LTCG attracts 20% tax and it is mandatory to pay a certain sum as advance tax.

Though capital gain is a taxable event, be it long-term or short-term, Income Tax Law provides options that individuals can utilize to save tax, specifically on property sale transaction and the resultant cash flow thereon. There may be myriad reasons for sale of an ancestral property or a personal investment, but as far as law is concerned, the gain resulting in such a sale has to be accounted and taxed for.

Section 54EC of Income Tax Act, the proceeds of the sale can be invested into certain bonds, provided the capital gain either in part or whole is invested within six months with a lock in period of three years. If converted, the gain from such conversion is taxable and also one cannot take loan against these bonds and the interest income from such bonds is also taxable.

For those individuals who own just one property, Section 54F of Income Tax Act, exempts the capital gain from tax, if the entire sale proceed is invested in one residential property, within a year before or two years after the date of transfer of such asset. If the individual is in possession of a land, he or she may opt to construct a residential property with the gain from sale, subject to a time period of within three years. Where one chooses to invest only a part of the sale proceeds, exemption will be proportionately calculated.

Every individual must keep in mind the tax proceedings while buying or selling properties, for it attracts capital gains that are taxable. Exceptional cases like Transfer of Equity Shares, Insurance Received, Conversion of Capital Asset into Stock-in-Trade, Transfer of Depreciable Assets etc. require special treatment of gains or losses and are calculated on case basis.

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Luxury Home Plans by the Beach

Luxury Home Plans

Are you looking at classy luxury home plans for your dream house? Among various luxurious properties, beach houses have gained much popularity over the past few years. Though, luxury trends change frequently, especially for the real estate industry, some features are constantly desired by property owners at all times and therefore, it is quite a good idea to include all such luxury features in your home plans. Some of the popular features you can wish to have in your luxury beach home are private cellar, outdoor kitchen, gymnasium, gaming space, etc.

Having an outdoor kitchen included in luxury home plans has become the most popular trend these days especially for beach houses. While staying in a beach house, people often want to enjoy cooking while watching the sea at a distance and enjoying its cool breeze and roaring waves. The kitchen in your beach home front yard facing the beach can be an excellent place for evening parties. When you invite guests to your beach home, the outside porch can become a great gathering location lit by candles or other forms of decorative lights. An outdoor kitchen also means great barbeque parties with your friends and family.

In addition to these features in a luxury beach home, a private cellar is yet another element that is often included by property owners. Stocking up best wines in the cellar is a sure sign of luxury. Whether it is having a glass of wine every evening or partying hard with friends and other guests on special occasions, a private cellar works wonderful in all situations. Therefore, they always make sure that the luxury home plans contain the provision for a private cellar.

There is no doubt about the fact that luxury beach home owners are high-net-worth individuals who remain engaged in their work throughout the day. Therefore, they get very little time for physical workouts. Therefore, fitness habits such as exercising on a regular basis forms a part of their everyday life. Therefore, having an in-house gymnasium, gaming area or swimming pool included in the home plan makes sense.

Beach houses can be the epitome of luxury thanks to spectacular views. And since beach houses are mostly investments as holiday homes, it is important that they be built expansively and room to expand and add. Security is yet another aspect that most people forget to add while planning their luxury home. Since holiday homes tend to remain vacant for the most part, it is important that perimeter fence and a strong compound wall be built around the property.

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Five Must-have Elements in Luxury Villas

luxury Villas

Photo Credit: Ionushi

Be it a hilltop retreat or a cozy outhouse along the coastal line, from farmhouses to modern townhouses, luxury villas are all about style and comfort. With ample space available to experiment and accommodate every whims and fancies of occupants, luxury villas provide the perfect ground to showcase home décor at its best.

Rustic Bathrooms

Palatial villas or cozy ones, villas have a certain charm elements that one cannot overlook. Bathrooms underwent a major change from being just bath areas to luxurious spas, relaxing and soothing all your senses. Bathroom fittings and walls that showcase a rustic charm, with smooth rocks and pebbled pathways and adorable bathtubs are the preference of many. Full windows are lined with green creepers that provide a better cover and also bring a bit of nature indoors. From silver linings to crystal studded fittings, even Jacuzzi tubs have found their way into luxury villas.

Spacious Kitchens

Luxurious kitchens are a joy to cook in, with their luxury countertops rightly complemented with modular designs, covering every space with colors that come lively. Each shelf is concealed, perfectly coordinated to fit color-coding and even textures. Ample storage space is provided, to accommodate every condiment required to dish out global cuisines and to maintain a sparkling clean kitchen. Most luxury villas have kitchens that are big enough to house large refrigerator, oven, wine coolers and every possible gadget. A cozy nook is fitted with the right furniture to nibble on a quick breakfast.

Energy Efficient Power Resources

Luxury villas provide the best option for energy efficient power sources. Being eco-friendly has become the latest fad with every class, and villas are now becoming increasing energy efficient. Space is never a constraint and setting up solar power panels, and water recycling plant has become a status symbol in villas. With lighting controls and auxiliary power sources, luxury villas are now turning into smart homes.

Landscaped gardens and Pools

Luxury villas are a powerhouse of parties. Every occasion calls for an elaborate get-to and nothing can be more welcoming than a perfect outdoor entertainment. Villas with beautiful landscaped gardens, private pools and even barbeque grills, are the perfect setting for festivities. This has become an important element in modern villas where even weekends with family calls for a party.

Entertainment Zones

Living rooms have undergone a major change with huge space to occupy a seating area for business clients, a warm family corner and one that is reserved for guests. While a busy private bar keeps buddies busy, game area with the latest video games and tech-gadgets can entertain kids. Home theatre is another fad that brings home blockbusters that the whole family can enjoy. Neighboring the living room is the dining space, fitted with wine holders, custom-made cupboards to showcase your precious crystal-ware collections and sleek design table with coordinated, comfortable chairs for a fine dining experience.

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Unique Home Design Ideas

Home Design Ideas

Designing a home requires greater attention than acquiring one so here are some unique home design ideas for you to make a difference. With interior designing and architectural plans going digital, and unending options for experimenting, every individual is putting their imagination to work and coming up with unique home designs that are truly admirable.

Color and texture has seen a whirlwind change, as designers are opting for bolder colors and unique textures for outer walls as well as interiors. Though rustic, vintage look is retaining its charm, there are homes that feature a colorful look, well-coordinated with its furnishings and fittings. The décor itself includes many sleek elements, like fine lines and sharp looks with latest LED lightings.

Storage is another bold feature of home design ideas, where innovative utility of spaces that otherwise stay unused, are put to use, complementing the décor and adding a dash of uniqueness to the design itself. While pull-out stair cases adorn the interior flight of steps, which can provide the perfect stealth place for shoes, even a small space below these same stairs is utilized for a cozy study corner with ample shelves, lighting and a comfy chair.

One of the recent development in home design ideas is to bring a bit of nature to the residential space, including bath areas and staircases. Adding a dash of greenery always accentuates the look of a home, be it a lush green, landscaped lawn and garden, or a cozy little kitchen garden. Ornamental plants are pleasing and they look best on windows or balconies. Creepers now find a place to grow on the huge French doors of bathrooms that sure provide a better cover and add a branch of nature for a relaxing spa experience.

With people opting for the most unique available designs, even for their bathrooms, the fittings have undergone a major change. The latest trend is a set of showerheads, well-concealed by the roof, replicating a water-fall effect. This with a combo of LEDs is a definite out of the World experience.

From war zone style of funny smelling, stained counter tops, kitchens have transformed into a living space, with appetizing aromas and inviting décors. Home designs have been built to accommodate every available kitchen gadget, within the chef’s reach, cleverly fitted with essential cutleries and knick knacks. All these are concealed to give a totally neat look, even after an elaborate menu preparation. Breakfast serving trays, have provisions to fit in condiments that go with the food served. A couple of wine baskets complete the setting for a perfect candle light dinner.

Wall decors are no longer restricted to the professional, million dollar paintings. Anything that you can find and fuse into a design can become a perfect wall hanging. From old hats, picture frames, industrial items to framed palm prints of kids and family members, wall décor is one area where your imagination is the limit.

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Simple House Plans for a Small Cottage

Simple House Plans for a Small Cottage

Simple house plans for small cottages such as country homes and log cabins have a clean design and structure so as to enhance the beauty of the cottage itself. Small home plans can not only be functional but also beautiful. Today, small cottage plans are no longer synonymous with simply “cozy”, and the best designs do not skimp on living space. They instead have detailed plans that make the living space appear much larger than it actually is, allowing residents to use them as vacation retreats, weekend homes or has quaint homes for elderly people as well.

Small cottages are constructed in various styles – Victorian, Tuscan, Craftsman, Split-Level, Ranches, Brick Houses and Rustic Country Homes. A modest and simple cottage does not hold back on the living amenities of the house. Many small cottage plans feature eat-in and open kitchens with wide islands and counter-tops, where food preparation is easy and eating spaces are cozy and perfect for a small family dinners and romantic breakfasts. The living room (also known as the great room in certain plans) is typically huge and usually has an attached fireplace with a hearth. Built-in cabinets in the living room itself make for a great storage space to stack books and showpieces.

While most cottages have combined living and dining spaces, some even feature a separate, bayed dining area. Most simple house plans in small cottages have vaulted ceilings, which give the area a more open and spacious look. The other popular design is those of tray ceilings, which add to the height, volume, design and elegance to the house.

Most small cottages feature a master bedroom tucked away in one corner of the house, separate from all the other rooms. If the cottage has an attached garage, then the master suite is usually built behind the garage, giving it a feel of privacy and coziness. They usually have a bathroom attached, and some of them even feature walk-in closets. Additionally, there might be one or two extra smaller bedrooms in the house. Bathrooms in cottages are tastefully designed, large in size and feature all amenities such as showers and even whirlpool tubs. Most cottages also feature attic storage spaces.

Cottages have a distinct and outstanding feature that no other home plan can have – beautiful front courtyards, back decks, and front and rear porches. Front porches can be covered or otherwise and may even be columned. They are inviting, welcoming and give a great cozy look to the cottage and are great for relaxing and entertaining guests. Wide back decks are back in fashion now, and some even run the entire length of the house at the back. They are great for family dinners, barbeques and grilling get-togethers with friends.

Certain simple house plans for small cottages also feature garages, which can be used in more than just the traditional way. If the family does not own a car, they can convert the garage into another small bedroom or a storage space. Thus, simple plans for cottages are not only functional but are elegant and beautiful.

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SPH070: How To Grow Useful Herbs on Your Windowsill

Many people have been discouraged from growing their own food because they think they will need a house in the country or an allotment garden. However isn’t it amazing to know that you can grow plants right on your windowsill. Here are some easy ways to grow five such useful herbs on your kitchen windowsill.

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Terms of Residential Lease Agreement

Residential Lease Agreement

A residential lease agreement, also known as the residential rental contract or a house lease agreement, is a form used by landlords for renting out property to tenants for a certain period of time. While most tenants never scrutinize their agreements, it is vital to do so in order to serve their interests better and avoid any sort of problems or clashes with the landlords. Most people, in fact, have no idea what the terms of such an agreement include. Listed below are a few clauses and terms that one should definitely check for while sifting through the agreement and before signing the dotted line –

Property description – A detailed description of the property and the surrounding areas, what entails the common areas etc. In some cases, however, the description might include a simple address and a flat/house number.

Parties to the agreement – The lease agreement must have the names of all landlords and all tenants associated with and bound to the agreement. In case, there is someone acting on behalf of the landlord, then his name should be included as well.

Details of the rent – Rent details should not only include the rent amount that is payable by the tenant every month, but should also include other terms such as when the rent is due and where should it be sent or who will collect the rent, and, most importantly, what the rent amount includes (for example, do maintenance of the unit or the payment charges for common areas and other costs come under rent or not). The details should also indicate what the penalties are for not paying the rent on time.

Duration of the lease – Often arguments regarding the residential lease agreement crop up on grounds of the lease term, and the terms on which it ends or can be ended. The agreement should clearly specify the starting and the ending dates of the lease, and should also include under what terms the tenant and the landlord can terminate the lease. The contract should also specify the terms of lease termination for both parties (for example, a month’s notice for smaller duration leases and no penalties but significant amount in penalties for terminating long-term leases)

Security deposit – This deposit is usually taken by the landlord as a security cover, and the terms should specify when and under what conditions it will be released to the tenant.

Lease renewal and sublet – The agreement should also have a clause which stipulates if, how and when a tenant can renew the lease, and also should have the terms of sublet, in case the tenants are allowed subletting the space.

Other charges – The lease agreement should also contain who is responsible for paying other charges on the property such as utilities such as gas, water, and electricity, as well as for maintenance and repairs.

Other stipulations – There should be a clause which specifies whether pets can be brought into the premises or not. Other terms such as alteration to premises and right to enter and inspect should also be included in the residential lease agreement.

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Popular Desserts of Andhra

Recent Blog Posts of Shriram Properties - Real Estate for Sale, Houses for Sale, Homes for Sale, Apartments, Villas, Property for Sale, Properties, Flats, Bangalore, Chennai, Coimbatore, Visakhapatnam from Shriram Properties

It’s true that Andhra is famous for its spicy food and one cannot imagine the different spices that go on to make the hot and tangy dishes. However, when we refer to sweet treats of Andhra, they too are mouth watering, delicious and delectable as the Pulusus and Vepudus. Most of the desserts are prepared […]

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Sri Kanaka Mahalakshmi Temple

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History Right in the city of Visakhapatnam is located, Sri Kanaka Mahalakshmi Temple, a historical place with strong religious background connected to the city. Kings of Visakhapatnam were great devotees of Sri Kanaka Mahalakshmi, who is believed to be the personification of Sri Lakshmi. The divine idol is admired and worshiped by the local people […]

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85% of Urban Youth Prefer Real Estate to Gold

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Today, UrbanYouth’s are concentrating on earning more so as to meet the dream of luxurious life. When it comes to savings, they look for a smarter way, where their money grows exponentially. Needless to say, the only thing whose price has increased gigantically is land. The fact about, 85% of urban youth desire to invest […]

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Perennial Demand of the Holiday Homes in India

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Stressful and busy city life forces one to spend some quality time with the family at a serene and beautiful place, where one can enjoy nature and shed the worries and stress completely. For this reason, people in India believe that having two homes certainly helps one to achieve this. Hence, the property market is […]

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Overview of Property Prices in Bangalore

Property Prices

With the real estate in Bangalore looking up for the coming year, property prices are all set to spike from current levels. If an investor is planning to invest in property, in the IT hub of the country for the coming year, then right now would probably be the best time to do so, with a huge appreciation in prices expected in the later part of 2014 due to an upbeat IT segment and a good second half last year.

Known for its strong long-term investment scenario, Bangalore realty is climbing popularity charts after a slight dip in the last two years. With almost 30 new projects having been launched in the last quarter of 2013, Bangalore’s real estate observed an increase in capital values across projects of all price ranges.

According to the survey done in the city, the price of the project and its location are being considered as the top purchase priorities for the coming year by prospective homeowners. In today’s times, areas such as North Bangalore, Whitefield, Sarjapur Road, Secondary and Central Business District, and Outer Ring Road (ORR) have extremely promising residential markets with an increasing demand for high-end projects (INR 1.5 crores per flat and above).

Property prices in South, Central and Off-Central Bangalore, witnessed a price increase of almost 4–6 % in the premium range, whereas those in North Bangalore increased by about 8–10%. These areas have promising residential spaces such as villas, row houses and huge, gated communities, which are the exclusive offerings of Bangalore today. Buyers here are known to be extremely selective and picky when it comes to such high-end projects and consider the size, the quality and the amenities of the projects very carefully.

The mid-segment (INR 75 lakhs to 1.5 crore) prices are expected to spike as well, mainly driven by the IT/ITES professionals working in Bangalore today. Rising disposable incomes, access to educational and medical facilities, great infrastructure, proximity to the workplace, and good social infrastructure are some of the principal driving factors for the spike in mid-level housing prices. Mid-level houses in certain areas of North Bangalore, Electronic City and Whitefield and ORR will witness growth in prices due to the above reasons.

The budget housing segment (below INR 50 lakhs) in Bangalore is mainly situated around the areas of Kanakapura, Hosur and Mysore Roads, areas of West Bangalore, the satellite town of Kengeri located on the NICE Ring Road, Electronic City and other areas of South Bangalore, certain pockets of in Koramangala and areas in North Bangalore. The availability of large land parcels at lesser prices, Peripheral Ring Road and the construction of the planned Metro Rail has increased demand for affordable housing in the above areas and on the outskirts of the city.

With the construction of IT parks and SEZs in North Bangalore, the proposed infrastructure changes by the government (Monorail, elevated expressway) and an increasing number of expatriates in the city is expected to drive the property prices higher in coming times. This means that there is no time like present to invest in that dream home in Bangalore. Go on and book an apartment right away at Chirping Woods, a premium gated community in Sarjapur road.

Your dream home is waiting for you at Chirping Woods

Affordable homes for sale at Shriram Sameeksha

The post Overview of Property Prices in Bangalore appeared first on Shriram Properties Bangalore.

by Sridhar Kulkarni via Shriram Properties Bangalore

Elements of Minimalistic Home Designs

Minimalistic Home Designs

Less is more – that is the motto of minimalistic home designs. Used to describe a trend in architecture and design, the aspect is one of the most significant design movements of the 20th and the early 21st century. A common misconception while designing homes today is filling the house with detailed furniture and many trinkets. Minimalistic design does away with all that and instead incorporates geometric shapes, and fine, gross and rhythmic lines and flat planes. Summarized below are certain basic elements that are an important part of minimalistic design –

Floors and walls

White is THE staple color of minimalistic home design. The illusion created by the color white is softer, cleaner and larger. Additionally, neutral, softer colors such as grey, stone, beige and cream are good alternatives for all colors as well. The colors for the floor should contrast only slightly with those of the walls and should be soft-colored as well, for example beige-colored large tiles. Wooden or timber flooring is a fantastic addition in minimalistic home design.

Furniture

The furniture in minimalistic home designs are engineered towards everyday use, ease in assembling and are simple yet elegant. Furniture such as clear glass bookcases or coffee and dining tables, stainless steel kitchen counter tops and kitchen sinks, natural fiber-based couches and armchairs, natural wood chaise lounges and comfortable living chairs and smooth leather barcaloungers and love seats are perfect examples of minimalist furniture. Furthermore, the furniture should be as close to the ground as possible.

Lighting

Natural lighting is the key in minimalistic design. Small light sources fitted with dim or natural, soft lights create a soothing, welcoming and warm ambience. Floor lamps with intricate designs, pendant lights, an ebony colored chandelier that diffuses and disperses light in the room, wall sconces with dim orange or natural white LED lights, low-hanging ceiling lights in the kitchen which bode well for cooking and working, concealed lighting for cabinets and paintings, and a low-hanging chandelier above the dining area are excellent lighting element designs in minimalist architecture.

Windows

Windows should be decorated simply in minimalist designs and should not have tapestries or yards and yards of cloth hanging around it. Allowing natural light inside the house is another important element in minimalist design, so windows should be kept open and should be simply decorated with blinds, white curtains and straight panels.

Accessories and paraphernalia

Accessories can be more in number but should be large and orderly, not eccentric and wild like most contemporary designs. A large wall dedicated to black and white family photographs showcasing all milestone moments, soft-coloured candles placed around the rooms, large and closed storage racks for crockery and books, large paintings which should preferably be either monochrome or maximum two-shaded, vintage stuff with an aged patina, wool rugs, natural wood art, single coloured vases with simple everyday flowers such as roses, lilies or carnations make for beautiful, distinct and yet elegant accessories in minimalistic home designs.

Your dream is waiting for you at Panorama Hills

The post Elements of Minimalistic Home Designs appeared first on Visakhapatnam, Vizag | Apartments, Flats, Homes, Houses, Plots, Property, Properties, Real Estate, Villas | for Sale | Shriram Panorama Hills.

by Balaji R via Visakhapatnam, Vizag | Apartments, Flats, Homes, Houses, Plots, Property, Properties, Real Estate, Villas | for Sale | Shriram Panorama Hills