There are many reasons why NRIs should invest in real estate in India. The most important being that the sector is growing at a record pace and there are indications that the growth will continue in the coming decade. Economic growth is fuelling rapid urbanisation increasing demand for housing and commercial real estate. New projects across price segments in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities will soon overtake those in the larger cities. And as the demand increases the returns on these investments are bound to improve on long-term investments. NRIs with a large corpus of funds can be assured of healthy returns if they buy property in India.

Let us look at different options for NRIs who wish to buy property in India:

Residential Real Estate

The options for NRI real estate investment in residential property are plenty. Depending on the long-term use and budget NRIs can choose to invest in metro cities, Tier 1, Tier 2, or Tier 3 cities. The large-scale infrastructure developments across cities are creating new markets in suburbs of large cities and new micro markets. Tier 2 cities are now attracting serious interest from developers in Kochi and investors as there are many projects to invest in at prices that are lower compared to large cities.

With an overall prediction of growth in the sector, returns on investment in smaller cities can be as lucrative as those in large cities if not more. There are many types and formats of residential properties ranging from flats, apartments, independent houses, villas, and plots to luxury and ultra-luxury segments with innovative amenities to fulfill the personal and social aspirations of the residents. The development of self-sufficient townships that have all the features of residential projects with social infrastructure is on the rise meeting the demand for these by modern home buyers.

Commercial real estate

Although commercial real estate requires more capital for investment it also commands higher rentals and prices. The economic growth is fueling the growth of current and new businesses which ultimately require commercial spaces for their operations. Investing in retail spaces, office properties, industrial plots, mixed developments, and warehouses can be highly lucrative for NRIs. The investors can be assured of healthy returns as the economic growth is expected to be robust till 2030.

Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs)

REITs are funds that invest in real estate stocks in the capital markets. The returns earned as rentals and mortgages are paid to the investors in the form of dividends. These investment instruments are like mutual funds where investors do not individually buy or invest in properties but instead invest in a pool of real estate equity.

These are the various investment options in real estate that NRIs can invest in. It is always advisable to perform due-diligence before investing in any property or instruments by consulting industry experts and doing market research.

God’s own country is known for its scenic beauty and rich cultural heritage. Nature has been generous with the state in blessing it with breathtaking landscapes, serene mountains, golden beaches, and a clean environment. The richness of the land needs preservation and the residents of Kerala are realizing this.

With the demand for eco-friendly and sustainable homes increasing steadily, most builders in Kochi know that it is the future of real estate in Kerala. Eco-friendly homes offer a healthy environment to live in as well as several financial benefits to leave behind a legacy for future generations.

Sustainable Housing

Construction of homes by traditional methods increases the carbon footprint due to excessive use of concrete, emission of greenhouse gases, and depletion of natural energy resources. Sustainable housing focuses on reducing environmental degradation and conserving non-renewable resources.

1. Energy efficiency can be achieved by using renewable energy resources like solar energy panels, energy-efficient appliances, and homes designed for natural lighting and ventilation. Wind, hydropower, and biomass are other sustainable options.

2. Sustainable materials like eco-friendly bricks, stone blocks, limestone blocks, and eco-friendly cement can replace traditional building materials with a high carbon footprint.

3. Conserving water by employing rainwater harvesting, recycling, and reusing household wastewater and better water management systems can go a long way in conserving water.

4. Waste management like the segregation of waste and recycling waste for composting that can be reused in the residential ecosystem are ways of improving efficiency.

Benefits

Eco-friendly sustainable homes offer several benefits to residents.

1. Energy and water-efficient homes help reduce utility bills adding to the savings.

2. Sustainable materials have a longer life and reduce the cost and effort of maintenance.

3. They offer a healthy lifestyle in an environment with a lower carbon footprint and by using natural resources like wind and sunlight.

Trends

1. Most projects in Kerala now aim to get green certifications such as LEED and IGBC to promote eco-friendly homes in high demand.

2. Energy-efficient buildings and vertical gardens are common in any property in Kochi including luxury properties proving that luxury and sustainability can co-exist.

3. The presence of open green spaces allows for a healthier lifestyle by promoting physical exercise like walking and outdoor activities.

4. Smart homes and home automation can help optimum utilization of resources reducing carbon footprint.

The Kerala government has made a great effort to promote sustainable real estate development by introducing green building norms and incentivizing eco-friendly practices. By educating home buyers to opt for sustainable homes and eco-friendly living practices the demand for sustainable housing has a green future.