Investing in real estate is one of the most crucial decisions that one can make in his life and it requires careful consideration and planning. When it comes to real estate investment, the most common dilemma faced by several potential investors is choosing between buying a plot of land or buying an apartment. Both options offer unique sets of advantages and disadvantages.
Understanding the nuances of each category can help investors make well-informed decisions aligned with their finance goals. Still confused, where should you invest? Fret not! In this article, we will delve into the intricacies of opting between “Plot vs Flat” and focus on the important factors that will help you make the right decision.
Plot vs Flat: Factors To Consider For Choosing The Right Investment Option
Property Value
Property value appreciation is influenced by multiple factors such as location, connectivity, amenities, demand-supply dynamics and others. When it comes to plots, they offer the flexibility to design and build your property according to one’s personal preferences, resulting in an increase of property value over time.
Moreover, the size of the plot, soil quality, and proximity to business hubs also affect the prices. On the other hand, apartments come equipped with built-in amenities and facilities, making maintenance more convenient. In addition to this, flats also offer more stability in terms of property value due to their built-in infrastructure.
Maintenance Cost
This cost usually varies between plots and flats. Plots have lower maintenance costs initially, as they require less built-in amenities and the responsibility for setting up the utilities and infrastructure lies with the plot owner. However, flats already have pre-installed amenities such as water supply, power backup, maintenance services, and security features, which relieves the owner of certain maintenance tasks.
Car Parking and Vastu Consideration
The availability of parking spaces differs between plots and flats. While apartments may have limited parking space and frequently need additional money for extra parking spaces, plots normally give more flexibility and ample parking options. Generally, people who invest in plots prioritize Vastu rules, such as direction of the property, orientation and others, which can influence its location. In contrast, apartment buyers have limited flexibility in this aspect.
Location and Efforts Involved
Location of your property in India significantly impacts its investment potential. Emerging areas with development prospects offer higher appreciation rates for plots while well-established cities favour apartments.
Buying a plot requires extensive planning, coordination with architects and contractors, and monitoring the entire construction process. But when it comes to apartments, the developer is the one who has to handle everything till he gives the handover to the homebuyer.
ROI Potential and Rental Income
Generating rental income from a land parcel requires constructing a building, which can take a lot of time to yield returns. On the other hand, if you buy a flat, it can generate immediate rental income. Although, apartments may come with restrictions on modifications, limiting customization options compared to the plots in India.
Possession
Plots are delivered right away after purchase, but apartment possession could take longer because of construction timelines and legal requirements. This involves a high level of risk for investors, as delays can impact your return on investment. However, with the implementation of Real Estate Regulatory Authority (RERA), delays in flat possession have been reduced to some extent.
Financing and Tax Benefits
Compared to plot loans, financing alternatives for apartments are typically more accessible, with a longer repayment period and cheaper interest rates. Although tax benefits are available for both land parcels and flats, with deductions on principal repayments and loan interest. While plots give immediate tax savings on loan repayments, apartments offer these benefits only when building is finished.
Legal Considerations and Safety
When buying a plot, legal matters including documents verification and property transfer processes are important factors to take into account. On the other hand, buyers can feel somewhat secure knowing that apartments usually come with pre-verified documentation and adherence to regulatory norms.
Plots and apartments may differ in terms of safety elements and aspects of social life; generally speaking, apartments have built-in security and a sense of community.
Conclusion
The choice between investing in a plot or flat depends on individual preferences, financial objectives, and risk tolerance. Plots are more flexible and customizable but they take more effort to build and maintain. Apartments may have restrictions on personalization but these ready-to-move-in flats offer built-in conveniences, convenience, and the possibility of earning rental income right away.