Top 7 International Real Estate Markets

Author: / Category: Real Estate
Real Estate Advisor asked:


Based on several factors that include lifestyle, retirement, opportunities for fun and investment, International Living magazine has chosen the world’s seven hot spots for 2007. Still virtually unnoticed by the world’s tourists, these seven regions are the best international real estate markets in 2007. They are:

1. Montenegro: This spectacular European country on the Adriatic Sea that many have almost forgotten has topped the list of best international real estate markets. The aquamarine sea, enthralling mountain backdrop, captivating summer villas and quaint fishing villages are just a few features of this jaw-droppingly beautiful country. An ideal tourist spot, this country has been adjudged the ‘fastest growing travel and tourism economy’ by the World Travel and Tourism Council.

2. Cartagena, Colombia: This is an ancient walled city embellished by magnificent Spanish colonial architecture and flanked by white-sand beaches. The city offers a warm weather, affordable lifestyle, and world-class diving and snorkeling for tourists and locals alike.

3. Malaysia: Southeast Asia’s top retirement haven, country is a very affordable destination. Malaysia offers a western lifestyle and a host of attractions including modern infrastructure, cheap accommodation and innumerable cultural charms. Its beautiful white beaches and clear blue waters offer sailing, diving, snorkeling, etc.

4. Calabria, Italy: A sunniest corner of Europe, Calabria is a beautiful peninsula that is enveloped by clear silver-blue sea on three sides. Life happens in a very leisurely manner in this place that possesses all the charms of a medieval village. A promising real estate market, the region is well connected by the low-cost Euro-carrier RyanAir.

5. Ciudad Vieja, Uruguay: This is another of the world’s inexpensive cities that remains undiscovered yet. The city has seen a booming real estate market since 1995 and the upward trend is sure to continue through 2007 too. Also ranked as one of the top 10 cheapest cities in the world last year, Ciudad Vieja remains one of the best places to invest this year.

6. Honduras Cloud Forest: With acres of mountain forests of breathtaking beauty, this mountain paradise is just minutes from a charming beachside town and an international airport. One can access this town by air in less than 2 hours from many places in the U.S. With the area poised for a real estate boom in a few years down the line, now is the time to buy.

7. Mexico’s Flamingo Coast: An enticing stretch of coastline with dozens of quaint little beach towns, side-by-side, the Flamingo Coast offers great beachside living and a laid back lifestyle. Its warm weather, white sandy beaches, emerald-green waters and cheap rentals are some of the attractions the region offers.


7 Reasons to Use a Real Estate Agent

Author: / Category: Real Estate
Escapeso Austin Real Estate asked:


Some people choose to use a real estate agent and some people choose to go it alone. One thing I have noticed over the years is that a number of seasoned investors looking in a new city will seek out a good agent while novice investors will frequently go it alone. I have even had a number of successful real estate agents seek out my help when they are moving to our city. Why do some of these seasoned investors choose to work with an agent? Below is a list of 7 benefits of using an agent.

1. Understand potential restrictions of the property. I recently heard a story from a friend at the city development office in Austin Texas. A couple had saved up for their retirement. They wanted to retire and live out in the hill country. They went to the foreclosure auctions. At the auction they purchased a lot for 500,000. It had great views and they were going to build their dream house on it. They had researched the lot before the auction and found it was zoned SFR which means a single family residence can be built on it. After purchasing the lot they started plans to build their retirement house. At this time they discovered the lot was in the 25 year floodplain. My friend at the city development office explained that the lot could not be built on and was basically worthless.

2. Know about new developments that might affect a properties value. A good realtor will know of proposed new developments that might affect different properties in which a buyer is interested. Whether these developments are positive or negative can be valuable information when weighing different housing options.

3. Find potential problems with a property. It is always a good idea to have a home inspector look at a potential house. However, a Realtor is a good first line of defense to see if a house has inherent problems. A Realtor that can know about common problems, such as foundation or electrical, that affect a particular neighborhood.

4. Understand contracts specifics. Whenever you buy or sell a house you are entering into a large personal transaction. It helps to have someone on your side that deals with these types of transactions on a daily basis. A Realtor can help you understand contracts and can explain what is typical for your area. The most common pitfall into which I see unrepresented buyers fall is to become involved in an atypical contract that is not to their benefit. For instance a seller will sign an offer that has an option period that is 4 times longer than what is typical. A buyer might put in offers on multiple properties with long option periods. The buyer will wait and see if the market appreciates. If the market has appreciated the buyer buys the house at now and undervalued price. If the market has gone down the buyer walks away.

5. Misperception of a benefit of going it alone. Buyers frequently think that by not using a buyers agent they will get a better deal from the seller. In most situation the listing agent asks for 6 percent from the seller. If a buyer comes with an agent the listing agent splits the 6 percent with the buyers agent. If an unrepresented buyer comes the listing agent keeps the whole 6 percent. On the selling side, For Sale By Owners (FSBO) often think they are saving alot of money by avoiding a listing agent. Nationally, FSBO homes sell for 14 percent less than agent listed homes in the same neighborhoods. In addition alot of FSBO’s still end up having a buyers agents involved. There is also money spent on advertising. Since an agent has experience marketing homes the agent often can spend money more effectively on advertising. Agents often know which advertising sources produce the most potential buyers.

6. Save time when looking for listings. Looking for listings without an agent can take up large chunks of time. When looking with an agent you can see several homes in a few hours. When going it alone you have to call the listing agent for each house and wait at the house for the agent to arrive and open up the house. In addition agents often know houses which are not listed or may have already identified potential problems with a particular house of interest.

7. Insure Security. When a home is listed with a broker, agents coming to the house have to usually log in. This allows the listing agent to keep a record of every party coming into the house. Since their business is on the line, agents are more likely to protect the house from damage or theft. For a variety of reasons, it is generally not a good idea to have random people you do not know come into your house. Often sellers simply have a phone number, but that phone could be their house, a friend’s house, a pay phone, or even a stolen phone.

Searching for a home can be stressful and difficult but it can also be fun. Whether you choose to look for a home on your own or with a Realtor its a good idea to be a extremely careful when you seek out your dream home.


A Mixed Year for Asian Residential Property in 2006, According to Global Property Guide

Author: / Category: Business
The Global Property Guide asked:


The winners: Singapore, South Korea and the Philippines

Singapore experienced Asia’s highest residential property price increases during 2006, with 9.5% real (inflation-adjusted) house price rises.

There were also 9.3% real house price increases in South Korea, and 9.1% real house price increases in the Philippines. These were seen in the Global Property Guide House Price Indices, the biggest collection of residential property price indices.

Singapore’s strong 2006 GDP growth rate, at 7.9%, pushed up demand for Singapore property. The Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA) private residential property price index rose by 10% (9.5% in real terms) in 2006.

South Korea also saw a strong rebound in property prices, despite continued efforts by the government to depress the market. The Kookmin Bank’s house price index rose 11.6% in Dec. 2006 (9.3% in real terms) from a year earlier.

In the Philippines, strong economic growth and reduced inflation contributed to the continued recovery of the real estate sector. In addition, demand from Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) and dual citizens has been strong, pushing prices up. Luxury condominium prices in the Philippines rose 15% (9% in real terms) in 2006, following an 11% nominal price rise in 2005, according to Colliers International.

Japan and Hong Kong are laggards

Japan’s residential property market continued to fall in 2006, despite repeated attempts by the media to portray the market as rallying. Nevertheless, the residential urban land price index registered a smaller fall in 2006 (-2.8%) compared to last year (-4.7%).

Hong Kong’s property market turned negative (-2.13%) in 2006, after impressive gains in 2004 (27%) and 2005 (8%). Higher interest rates in the US, mirrored directly in Hong Kong, were a major cause of the downturn.

Taiwan’s messy political crisis seems to have frozen residential prices, with 0% appreciation during 2006. In real terms, Taiwan experienced a decline in house prices during 2006 (-1.7%). During three years prior to the second quarter of 2006, Taiwan’s Sinyi house price index rose 17%.

In Malaysia, house prices did not to keep pace with inflation. Malaysian house prices today are at the same level as 1995, in real terms.

Thailand saw the end of ending its strong post-Asian crisis property market recovery, as the political crisis impacted the economy. House prices moved up just 1.9% in 2006 (-2.4% in real terms), after 2005’s price increase of 7% (1.5% in real terms), and 2004’s rise of 9% (6% in real terms).

Indonesia managed to reduce 4Q 2006 inflation to 6% from 16% during the first three quarters. With the house price index registering a 6.6% increase in 2006; house prices rose by 0.5% in real terms.

The 2007 elections – risks abound

2007 is an election year in Korea, Taiwan, and the Philippines, and political uncertainty is likely to increase. There will also be elections in Japan and Hong Kong, but they are unlikely to have much impact on the real estate market. In Thailand, uncertainty will increase if elections are not called.

The Philippines. A victory for President Arroyo’s party in the upcoming Congressional elections would be positive for real estate. Election years in the Philippines bring money inflows, but also increased uncertainty. But if Arroyo wins enough seats in Congress she will push constitutional change, removing constitutional limits on foreign ownership of real estate and companies – good for real estate.

South Korea. The economic interventionism of left-of-center President Roh Moo-hyun has been damaging for Korea’s housing market. His support is crumbling, and a less interventionist president may be elected in December. But even if the opposition Grand National Party wins, excessive government intervention in the housing market has a very long history in South Korea.

Taiwan. Parliamentary elections at end-2007 will provide a strong lead on whether the Kuomintang (KMT) can regain control of the presidency in 2008 from the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP). President Chen Shui-bian’s two terms have largely been spent on keeping him from being ousted. Significant banking and tax reforms have been held hostage by politics.

Japan. Half of the seats in the upper house will be contested in July. Seats held by the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) may be reduced, risking its reform agenda. These seats were won with the help of former prime minister and popular reformist Junichiro Koizumi.

Hong Kong. Donald Tsang is up for re-election as chief executive where elections are still largely ceremonial and Beijing’s anointment is the only significant factor. Pro-democracy campaigners are hoping and pushing for reforms to full democracy and Mr. Tsang’s failure to push for constitutional reforms in 2005 means that this will be his last term.

Thailand. The sooner elections are called, and Thailand is returned to democracy, the better it will be for the property market and the economy as a whole. The fate of Thailand’s property market hinges on the junta. If the junta prolongs military rule, the market will suffer.

The Global Property Guide sees inflation risks to be minimal in Asia in 2006. But other risks threaten the real estate market, particularly the re-emergence of bird flu in several countries, Indonesia in particular.


Coronado, San Diego, Real Estate Market Trends, Single-family Homes, Mid Year Analysis, 2006

Author: / Category: Real Estate
Real Estate Advisor asked:


The community of Coronado is located on the central coast of San Diego County. This 13.5 square mile peninsula is accessible via the famous Coronado Bay Bridge, by water ferry from Downtown San Diego, or through Imperial Beach via highway 75.

The real estate and homes for sale in Coronado are some of the most expensive properties in San Diego County. The number of homes sold in a particular year is relatively low. For example, during the period from January through July 2006, approximately 64 single-family homes sold. Approximately 79 homes sold for the same period in 2005. The price of homes in Coronado varies widely from moderately priced small cottages to multi-million dollar estates.

One method to analyze pricing trends for a particular community is to evaluate the median and average price of homes for a particular month, and compare that data against the same period last year. What follows is a comparison of the median price and average price of homes for the past seven months (January through July 2006), compared against the data for the corresponding time period in 2005.

The median price of homes represents the point at which half the homes are above a particular price point, and half the homes are below a particular price point. The average price of homes is calculated by adding up the sales price of all homes sold in a particular month, and dividing that value by the number of homes sold.

The median price of homes in July 2006 was $1,505,000, compared to $1,481,250 in July 2005, which represents a 1.6% increase. The average price of homes in July 2006 was $1,795,179, compared to $1,603,214 in July 2005, which represents an 11.5% drop. Approximately 7 homes sold in July 2006 and 14 in July 2005. In summary, the data was mixed for July 2006, with the median price posting a small increase and the average price dropping 11.5%.

The median price of homes in June 2006 was $1,775,000, compared to $1,570,000 in June 2005, which represents a 13.1% increase. The average price of homes in June 2006 was $1,998,860, compared to $1,778,214 in June 2005, which represents a 12.4% increase. Approximately 15 homes sold in June 2006 and 21 in June 2005. In summary, the data provides evidence that there was an upward price trend in June 2006 compared to the same period last year.

The median price of homes in May 2006 was $1,200,000, compared to $1,390,000 in May 2005, which represents a 13.7% drop. The average price of homes in May 2006 was $1,576,429, compared to $1,615,692 in May 2005, which represents a 2.4% drop. Approximately 7 homes sold in May 2006 and 13 in May 2005. In summary, the data provides evidence that there was a downward price trend in May 2006 compared to the same period last year.

The median price of homes in April 2006 was $2,250,000, compared to $1,450,000 in April 2005, which represents a 55.2% increase. The average price of homes in April 2006 was $2,667,200, compared to $1,731,524 in April 2005, which represents a 54% increase. Approximately 10 homes sold in April 2006 and 7 in April 2005. In summary, the data provides evidence that there was a significant upward price trend in April 2006 compared to the same period last year.

The median price of homes in March 2006 was $1,650,000, compared to $1,780,000 in March 2005, which represents a 7.3% drop. The average price of homes in March 2006 was $2,219,667, compared to $1,774,667 in March 2005, which represents a 25.1% increase. Approximately 15 homes sold in March 2006 and 9 in March 2005. In summary, the data was mixed for March 2006, with a drop in median price and an increase in average price.

The median price of homes in February 2006 was $1,185,000, compared to $875,000 in February 2005, which represents a 35.4% increase. The average price of homes in February 2006 was $1,327,000, compared to $1,011,667 in February 2005, which represents a 31.2% increase. Approximately 5 homes sold in February 2006 and 3 in February 2005. In summary, the data provides evidence that there was an upward price trend in February 2006 compared to the same period last year.

The median price of homes was $1,700,000 in January 2006, compared to $1,531,500 in January 2005, which represents an 11% increase. The average price of homes in January 2006 was $1,599,000, compared to $1,717,750 in January 2005, which represents a 6.9% drop. Approximately 5 homes sold in January 2006 and 12 in January 2005. In summary, the data was mixed for January 2006, with a jump in median price and a decline in average price.

So what does the above data tell us? Overall, there was a 19% decline in the number of homes sold during this period from 2006 to 2005. Besides that, the Coronado real estate market is very hard to characterize because of the limited number of homes that sell every month, and the wide variation in home prices. The median and average prices fluctuated substantially depending on whether or not very expensive homes sold that month or not. Prospective home buyers should seek the advise of an experienced real estate agent to help them understand the micro pricing trends of homes in their price range.


Real Estate Guide to Buy or Rent Whangarei Northland and Coastal Property in New Zealand

Author: / Category: Real Estate
Real Estate Business asked:


Real Estate Investment in Whangarei New Zealand

Real estate business may be focused in so many aspects as an investment and as a method to earn money from. You can be a real estate agent and enjoy earning money while on the other hand, there are those who have the capital to earn being an investor in the buy and sell arena for a real estate business. In Whangarei New Zealand, however, there is a lot of available real estate business investment that you can get in to if you want to earn a significant amount of income from it.

Whangarei Real Estate Agent Marketing Tips

A Whangarei real estate agent in New Zealand may earn through real estate business by selling real estate property in so many ways and methods but so far, there are a few tips that I would like to give you to be able to earn good in this business. To be able to market a real estate property, you have to know where you can make such move or where to post your for sale property using the internet because we all know that the internet is the best medium there is if you are selling anything today. A few good ways to seek refuge for your product are forums and classifieds. Today there are a lot of free classifieds that you can post your for sale product. Forums can also be a good way to sell real estate. You can also try to market your real estate property using social media sites where you can post to multiple people who might just be interested to buy a real estate property in Whangarei. So far these are just a few ways and I know that there are a lot out there.

Different Real Estate Property Investment and Sale

In a real estate investment, there are a lot of different types that you can sell for interest of those who might be looking for the perfect type of property. Different people have different preferences for a real estate property that they wan to buy or rent or even lease for a period of time so to be able to allow your target clients to get a glimpse of what is there in the real estate industry in Whangarei Nez Zealand, you must have access to the different types of real estate properties being sold in the market today and make a list of them all. This is for the purpose of having each type under your profile just in case you have to present a client the different types of real estate property that you sell for choosing.

To get you an idea of what is in store if you are looking to sell real estate these are a few types. Coastal real estate, farmland real estate, northland real estate, beach real estate, resort real estate, ridge real estate and more. So far these are just a few but always feel free to make it more appealing and diverse for your clients. We all know that selling a real estate property either if it is for rent, lease or total sale depends on the choices that you can offer for your clients.


real estate agent marketing

Author: / Category: Business
real asked:


src=”http://blog.foreclosure.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/11/real-estate-marketing.jpg” />Real Estate Agent Marketing: Real Estate Agent Marketing Suggestions That Rock!

The real estate industry is turning ferocious. There are innumerable real estate agents in the United States, making excelling an actual challenge. Every real estate agent is different, therefore, every real estate agent marketing campaign must match its subject. It is fundamental to utilize the trial and error rule with a number of ideas until you find the right plan for you, one that serves your style, finances and aims.

Marketing can be intimidating; we show here several suggestions we hope can turn the path easier for you and are useful for attracting the correct users. We promise that one, two or all of these will be good for you once you are set to begin your real estate agent marketing adventure.

First idea. Start a blog. A blog will serve you in expanding your real estate company in many manners and is simple to manage, making it effortless to share interesting and pertinent real estate articles. A bigger amount of superior content equals stronger Internet presence that equals being found on the Internet more easily and inspiring a positive response out of users. A blog gives you the chance to talk with your customers and meet them intimately, which is an important characteristic of any real estate agent marketing campaign trying to to convey to your customers that you care for them and their wishes.

Idea number two. Increment on line presence. Your real estate agent marketing strategy wants you to gain as many future customers as you can. The web is an amazing instrument to touch persons in any corner of the globe, and once you unite a site, a blog, Internet news and writings, you can be positive users will reach you, as you are everywhere. You will pass as an authority as your business is widely covered.

Third idea. Increase your direct marketing plans. The web is a significant real estate agent marketing means, however, there are others of the same worth. Direct marketing is highly effective to fortify and establish your real estate company too. Test several direct marketing instruments and research what is efficient; offer extra value to your communications so that people are prompted to act.

Idea number four. Do public relations. Use it to boost your real estate agent marketing plan and strengthen your image. A piece in the town’s paper, a relevant press release or a free seminar in your community regarding hints to get a home, go a long way when aiming to imprint a solid image among customers.

Fifth idea. Give people something to tattle about. Your venture counts almost completely on word of mouth, thus, help people to want to talk about you and your services continuously. Give distinctiveness which will turn you irresistible and that everybody will desire to communicate to others. Nothing is invalid, simply visualize what would impress your customers and find a way to offer it to them: free interior design tips, free landscape tips or a tour around their new city. Options are infinite.

A real estate agent marketing plan is about imagination and, as any other business, about placing yourself in the customers’ place and surpassing their expectations. Go for it!


Magic Masons Explains all about Buying Property in goa

Author: / Category: Real Estate
Goa property asked:


Can I see the Title Deeds? What will be my undivided share in the property? Are you building within the permissible FSI? Will you give me an Allotment Letter? Will you give me a comprehensive Agreement of Construction? Can I have a copy of PDA’s approved plan and planning permit, before commencement of construction? What are your commitments after you complete and deliver the flat?

 

 

1. Can I see the Title Deeds?

1. In order to own a flat that is yet to be constructed. You will have to first buy an undivided share in the property on which the flat is going to be built. Before buying this, you must make sure that the title deeds of the property are in order. The title deeds are the set of documents that would unequivocally establish the seller’s ownership of the property and his right to sell it.

2. Therefore get a written opinion on the title from the Builder’s advocate along with photocopies of the title deeds. Certified by an advocate. If this is not available, get an opinion from your own advocate. You must also see the Agreement of Sale between the Owner and the Builder.

3. The manner by which the Owner acquired the property decides the key documents that must be seen:

A. Property was purchased by the Owner:

See the Registered Deed by which he purchased it.

B. Property came to them by a will (i.e. Bequest):

This is known as Testamentary Succession. See the Probated Will. If no Executor / Executrix has been appointed, see the letters of Administration granted by District / High Court according to law.

C. Property devolved through succession:

If the earlier Owner died without leaving a Will, the legal heirs and successors obtain a Deed of Succession issued by the Sub-Registrar or an Inventry of the assets from the District Court, which must be seen (obtain a noterised copy).

D. Property developed through a Gift / Partition / Settlement / Exchange:

The Deed relating to such transfer of Title – Gift Deed / Settlement Deed / Deed of Relenquishment / Exchange Deed – must be seen.

4. The other ancillary / supporting documents that must be seen are :

A. Form I&IV in the name of the Owners, issued under the Seal of the Mamlatdar.

B. Nil-Encumbrance Certificate (EC) for the preceding 31 years, preferably showing no mortgage or other encumbrance that are still existing on the date of purchase. Exercise caution if an uncleared mortgage or other lien on the property is shown in the Encumbrance Certificate.

C. The property being sold must be free of restrictions for sale under the Urban Land Ceiling Act (U.L.C. Act). If a Clearance Certificate for the Property issued by the U.L.C. Authorities is not available, then it has to be ensured that with reference to the land held by the Owner(s), and the nature of their family membership, the built-up area of the construction thereon and the appurtenant / contiguous land around the built-up area fall within the ceiling of Ownership and therefore can be freely said.

5. If the property is not being transferred by the Owner(s) directly but through an Agent, acting as Power of Attorney Agent (POA) of such owner(s), ask for the original or attested copy and scrutinise it. Such a Power can be given either through a Notarised Document or Registered Document. However, a notarised power may not be accepted for property transfer by all governmental/financial agencies.

6. Besides the above, it is advisable to check the following:

A. Property Tax Demand Notices and Receipts for payments to the Corporation.

B. Water and Sewerage Tax Demand Notices and Receipts for Payments to the Panchayat or Municipal Authority.

C. Electricity Bill and Receipts for Security Deposits and Additional Deposits. The latest electricity bill is the best source of proof for payment of dues by the Owners to the Panchayat or Municipality.

 

2. What will be my undivided share in the property?

Your Undivided Share of land must be equal to:

The built-up area of your flat as in the approved plan/ Total built-up area of the project as in the approved plan This is usually expressed as a percentage of the total land. Therefore, the percentage undivided shares of land of all the flat owners in a complex must be equal to 100. This ensures that the title to the entire land as well as the entire building rests with the group of flat-owners of the complex.

The Sale Deed transferring the Undivided Share in your favour must be duly registered before the commencement of construction of the flat.

 

3. Are you building within the permissible FSI?

1. The Floor Space Index (FSI) is an important parameter you should know about.

F S I = Total buildt-up area of your complex plan/Total area of the plot on which it is to be built.

2. The permissible FSI for all residential complexes other than multistoreyed buildings in all the end-use zones listed below is 1.5: Primary Residential, Mixed Residential, Institutional and Commercial zones

3. The total construction as declared in the plans of- fered by the promoter should not exceed the FSI permissible.

4. This FSI is fixed by the Planing and Development Authority (PDA) which is the regulatory body governing architectural, structural and environmental parameters pertaining to development within the State of Goa.

5. The rules and regulations governing the above parameters are spelt out in the Development Control Rules (DCR), a copy of which can be purchased from the PDA.

If the permissible FSI is exceeded, you as a flat-owner run the risk of demolition of the construction.

 

4. Will you give me an Allotment Letter?

Insist on an Allotment Letter at the time of booking, which must clearly indicate:

>> All-inclusive firm and fixed price (clearly indicating the various components such as land cost, registration and stamp duty for the transfer of undivided share of the property, and construction cost) and the schedule of payments.

>> Plan of the flat (as per sketch scheme), built-up-area and the features offered.

>> Committed commencement and delivery period and commitment for liquidated damages for any delay.

>> Post-delivery product warranty by the builder.

If your builder does not provide you with an Allotment Letter, you face the uncertainty of not knowing

>> The exact amount you will end up paying for your flat.

>> When you will get possession of your flat.

>> Whether you will get all the features promised.

 

5. Will you give me a comprehensive Agreement of Construction?

1. The Agreement of Construction substantiates the commitments relating to land cost (your share), stamp duty and registration fee, construction cost, schedule of payment, list of features, time of delivery, post- delivery warranty etc.

2. If defines the responsibilities and obligations of both the Contractor (or Builder) and the Contractee (or Buyer) and is normally put down on a Rs.10.00 stamp paper and signed by the Builder and the Buyer in the presence of witnesses.

3. The Agreement of Construction is the only source of your title to the flat, read in conjunction with the Property Tax Assessment and Demand Bill in your name. Since it is the document of ownership, funding agencies would demand it, when you apply to them for a loan.



6. Can I have a copy of PDA’s approved plan and planning permit, before commencement of construction?

1. The plan given to you at the time of booking may not be fully conforming to the Development Control Rules and the plan actually approved by the PDA may consequently be different. Therefore insist that you are given a copy of the approved plan and the planning permit before the construction of the complex commences. Check whether the area of your flat in the approved plan is as per the allotment letter.

2. If you have a copy of the approved plan and the planning permit, you can monitor the actual construction and ensure that it is as per the approved plan. If the building is not constructed as per the approved plan, you as a flat-owner, could face the threat of its demolition.

 

7. What are your commitments after you complete and deliver the flat?

1. Ensure that the builder gives you the Completion Certificate issued by the PDA, which confirms that the construction is as per the approved plan.

2. Ensure that the builder gives the Association of Flat Owners (of which you would be a member) with a set of detailed drawings covering structural, plumbing, electrical wiring, drainage and water supply details.

3. Ensure that the builder commits to rectify defects in your flat and the complex in materials or workmanship.

4. The Completion Certificate confirms the adherence of the completed complex including your flat to PDA’s approved plan, and eliminates all chances of demolition of the construction.

5. In the obsence of the drawings, maintenance of your flat (and the building) will be difficult.

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Abatement notice:

A notice served on the owner(s) or occupier(s) of a property from which a private nuisance arises, warning them of the intention to enter on the land in order to abate the nuisance.

Absolute title:

1. The right of ownership of a mortgage deed, which gives the right, in certain specified circumstances, to demand repayment in full, of the outstanding debt than the due date.

2. A clause in a deed or contract, which provides for the early termination of an exciting interest in land, in certain specified circumstances, thereby advancing the future interest.

Agreement for lease/sale:

A contract to enter into a lease (or sale), which in order to be enforceable either must be evidenced in writing and signed by the person against whom action is taken for the breach of the alleged contract and there must be a sufficient act of part performance.

Alternative user value:

The value of land and buildings, which reflects a prospective use, which is different from that of the current use.

Amortisation:

1. (UK) The concept of writing off the capital cost of a wasting physical asset by means of a sinking fund.

2. (USA) Payment of a debt in equal installments of principal interest, as opposed to interest -only payments. Anchor tenant: One or more department or variety chainstores, or supermarkets, introduced into a shopping center in key positions to attract the shopping public into the center for the purpose of encouraging other retailers to lease shops n route. The larger the developments the more anchors required.

Annuity:

A sum of money paid each year during the life of the recipient. An annuity is usually paid as a legal obligation under a contract or undertaking, as through a pension scheme, and may be paid in installments more frequently than once every twelve months.

Asset valuation in the property market:

This expression is applied to the valuation if land and buildings or plant and machinery. The term is often used to describe an expert opinion of the worth of a property, which may be incorporated into company accounts, where the ownership of the asset is not necessarily to be transferred but the valuation is required for the company takeovers, share flotation or mortgages.

Assignment:

The transfer of a property interest, especially a lease, from one party to another.

Atrium:

An entrance hall of a building, often rising through a number of storeys and containing lifts, reception areas and plants. Originally the hall or chief apartment of a Roman house.

B

Balloon payment:

A repayment of a loan bond, usually but not necessarily the final repayment, which is larger in amount than other installments.

Bare shell :

This Depicts the condition of any property after completion of construction activity and installations of basic building services. A bare shell includes basic flooring – tiled, mosaic, cement or granite and plastered walls. Apart from this, pantry and toilet facilities may also be operational in such condition.

Basic rent:

A monthly rental net of maintenance and interest costs charged or quoted by landlords for any property. The base rent comprises of only the payment made for Usage of the subject property under a lease agreement. Imputed costs such as holding costs fit out costs and building service charges are not usually included in the base rent.

Bayana:

An Indian term used to denote the token money given to the landlord to informally freeze negotiations on a particular property, after the initial terms and conditions have been formalised.

Breach of contract:

An act, or omission, contrary to enforce specific performance to rescind the contract and / or to claim damages, the remedy available depending upon the nature of the breach.

Broker/dealer:

A person or company who acts as a medium of bringing owners and proposed buyers together with a view to complete a real estate transaction.

Brokerage:

1. Commission paid to a broker.

2. The activity of a broker in bringing together two parties in a transaction.

Building byelaws:

Local authority control of building standards promulgated to regulate and control the usage of land, property and areas in cities and towns.

Building contract:

A contract between an owner or occupier of land and a building contractor, setting forth the terms under which construction is to be carried out, basis of remuneration, time scale, and penalties, if any, for failure to comply with terms of the contract.

Business center:

Commercial premises usable by the occupiers for a short period on a membership basis of the center. Usually, a business center charges for the full service accommodation, which is generally substantially higher than the rental of a standard office space, and higher than the rental of a standard office space, and usually includes cost of HVAC, housekeeping, electricity, and security systems.

Business park:

A landscaped area containing high tech, other amenities for business purposes, as a distinct from high-tech park or a science park. Building density is lower than would be usual in a traditional industrial estate. Business parks are preferentially located where motorway, rail and airport communications are within a short distance.

Buy-out rate:

In a funding agreement between a developer and a prospective purchaser, the pre-determined investment yield which will be used to capitalize the annual income receivable at the time of sale to determine the buy out price.

C

Capitalisation:

1. At a given date the conversion into the equivalent capital worth of a series of net receipts, actual or estimated, over a period.

2. A method of calculating a final purchase price for a development using an agreed formula to convert actual, or assumed, income from initial lettings into a capitalism. Such capitalised sums may be offset against a purchasing fund’s interim finance payments, any excess being paid to the developer.

3. In relation to a company’s reserves, the conversion into capital of money, which is then distributed as a capitalisation issue.

Catchment area:

1. The area of land from which finds its way into a particular watercourse, lake or reservoir.

2. By analogy, the area which contains those people who can be expected to obtain goods, services, employment or other benefits from a particularly property. More especially related to retail premises, where the success of forecasting depends on the accuracy of estimating the number of purchasers (catchment population) likely to be attracted from the different parts of the area and the average expenditure, which might be expected, from them.

Central business district:

The functional center around which the rest of a city is comparison shopping, office accommodation, leisure facilities, buildings for recreational use, public museums, art galleries and governmental functions. Generally the area of highest land values within a city.

Clearance area:

An area, which is to be cleared of all buildings. Generally promulgated by way of a government declaration, which is normally followed by the acquisition of the land and the clearance of the area. Completion certificate/statement:

1. (UK) statement prepared by solicitors, usually those acting for a purchaser and a vendor respectively, following the conveyance of an interest in property, giving a schedule of sums received leading to a balance being the final amount due to the vendor. In some case the statement is prepared at a later date and may show a figure recoverable by the purchaser from the vendor.

2. A certificate issued by the local development authority certifying that all necessary works have been completed and that the property is fit for occupation.

Condominium (USA):

A building or a structure of two or more units, the interior space of the individually owned and the balance of the property (both land and building) being owned in common by the owners of the individual units.

Conveyance:

A document transferring title to land from one person to another.

Current yield:

The remunerative rate of interest, which is, or would be, an appropriate at the date of valuation, assuming the property to be let at its full rental value. It will be the same as the reversion yield where the reversion is to full rental value, and the same as the term yield where the rent receivable under the lease is full rental value.

D

Developer:

An entrepreneur who has an interest in a property, initiates its development and ensures, that this is carried out (for occupation, investment or dealing) and from the outset accepts the responsibility for providing or procures the requisite funds needed to finance the whole project.

Development control:

The powers of a local planning authority to control the development and use of land, which includes inter alia,

a) the refusal or grant (with or without conditions ) of planning permission;

b) the issue of enforcement notices;

c) the making of revocation, modification or discontinuance orders;

d) the grant or refusal of listed building consents;

e) the designations of conversion areas;

Development yield:

In a valuation to ascertain a ground rent, the rate at which costs are decapitalised to find the annual deduction from the occupation rents; it comprises:

a) an investment yield

b) an annual allowance for developers risk and profit and, in some instances

c) an annual sinking fund element

Discounted cash flow analysis:

Techniques used in investment and development appraisal whereby future inflows and outflows of cash associated with a particular project are expressed in present -day terms by discounting. The most widely used forms of DCF are the internal rate of return (IRR) and net present value (NPV). The techniques may be used for such purposes as the valuation of land and investment, the ranking of projects or their components.

E

Easement (UK):

A right appurtenant to a parcel of land entitling a dominant owner to use the land of the servient owner in a particular manner, or constraining the legal rights otherwise enjoyed by the servient owner, e.g. A right of way, right to light, right to support. Strictly speaking, easements cannot exist “in gross”, i.e. personal and unattached to the ownership of land, but rights similar to easements can be created by statute, usually for the benefit of public utility undertakings, and these are commonly referred to as “statutory easements”.

Effective rent:

The gross rent payable per month by the occupiers which includes the base rent, maintenance charges, imputed costs of loss of interest on security deposit and rental advance. The effective rent indicates the total cash outflow of an occupier every month on account of leasing any property.

Equity linked mortgage:

A mortgage whereby the interest on the principal in part or in whole is calculated, usually yearly, by reference on the security, e.g. It may reflect annual increase or possible decreases, in the annual return on, or the value of, the property in which the mortgage is secured.

Escalation clause specified in lease agreements wherein renewals of lease period are built in:

It involves an increment in the base rent at every renewal of a lease agreement in the base rent at every renewal of a lease agreement and is generally a percentage rate that is either pre agreed or negotiated before the renewal of the lease agreement.

F

Facilities management:

The coordination of many specialist disciplines to create the optimum working environment for staff.

Fail rent:

The rent determined by a rent officer (or, on appeal, by a rent assessment committee) under a regulated tenancy and registered.

FERA:

An act to regulate certain payments dealing in foreign exchange, securities, the import & export of currency and acquisition of immovable property by foreigners. Under Section 31 (1) of the Foreign Exchange Regulation Act ( FERA) of 1973, It is mandatory for foreign corporations, which are not incorporated in India to obtain permission from the Reserve Bank Of India (RBI) to acquire, hold, transfer or dispose off in any manner (expect by way of lease for a period not exceeding five years) any immovable property in India.

Fire certificate:

A certificate covering matters of safety required under the legislation for hotels, boarding houses, factories, offices shops and railway premises, excluding those buildings containing less than a minimum number of employees. In order to obtain a fire certificate, one must apply to a fire certificate, one must apply to a fire officer, who then inspects the building and issues a list of requirements (e.g. Fire doors). Once the fire officer is satisfied that those requirements have been met he will issue the fire certificate. It enables fire officers, in the event of an emergency, to have prior knowledge inter alia of the permitted number of people on each floor; it also informs officials if any authorised inflammables /explosives materials on the premises.

Fitouts:

Relate to the interior permanent furnishings required in a property including HVAC ducting, fire protection system implementation, establishment of workstations and telephone/computer cabling among other, in order to make the property fit for usage.

Flatted factory:

An industrial building of more than one storey, usually with two or more goods lifts, and constructed or converted for multiple occupation. The building is subdivided into small, separately occupied units, which are used for manufacturing, assembly and associated storage.

Force majeure:

A force, which cannot be resisted, in other words, something beyond the control of the parties involved. It includes acts of God and acts of man, e.g. Riots, strikes, arson. In many contracts and insurance policies, specific provision is made for damage or injury arising from force majeure. For example, the financial liability of a building contractor for failure to complete by a specific date may be relieved to the extent it was caused be force majeure. This is a common clause in most property contracts.

Foreclosure:

1. (UK) The mortgagees restricted power to extinguish the mortgagor’s right of redemption by transferring the mortgagor’s interest in the property to himself, if the mortgagors defaults in paying his dues or in complying with any other terms of the mortgage deeds.

2. (USA) The legal process by which a mortgagee can sell the mortgagors interest in the property to satisfy debt: also called “foreclosure sale”. Also applied to the extinguishment of a mortgagors right of redemption. Freehold:

In general parlance this is used as shorthand for the tenure of an estate in fee simple absolute in possession. Strictly speaking, however, freehold includes fee simple, entailed interests and tenancies for life. Frontage (line): The full length of a plot of land or a building measured alongside the road on to which the plot or building fronts. In the case of contiguous buildings individual frontages are usually measured to the middle of any party wall.

G

Greased:

Lease back The disposal by a freehold or leasehold owner of his interest on a property or leasehold interest where the rent payable is geared to a fixed percentage of some variables, often rack-rental value.

Gold cause (UK):

A clause in a lease, which provides for the rent to be reviewed by reference to the price of gold.

Green field site:

An area of land, usually in the edge of a town or city or away from substantial urban areas, hitherto undeveloped but for which development is now proposed.

Gross External Area (GEA):

The aggregate superficial area of a building taking each floor into account. As described in the RICS/ISVA Code of Measuring Practice (UK), this includes: external walls and projections, internal walls and partitions; columns; piers, chimney-breasts, stairwells, and lift wells; tank and plant rooms, fuel stores whether or not above main roof level and open-sided covered areas and enclosed car-parking areas, terraces etc.

H

Hi-tech building (high technology building):

Primarily a modern industrial building which is particularly suited to the flexible uses and space needs of business organisations engaged in modern technologies. Such activities usually require more office or laboratory space than a traditional factory and also more sophisticated and adaptable installations for services and communications.

High point loading:

A concentration of abnormally heavy floor loading at one point or more particular places in a building or other structure where extra support may be required.

HVAC:

Refers to the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system installed in a building to regulate temperature. This includes air conditioning plants, chillers and ducting systems, which ensure the uniform transfer of the cold or hot air, as the case may be throughout the building.

I

Indian Stamp Act, 1899:

A legal statute, which provides for the payment of stamp duty in case of all real estate transactions to duty to the local government. The value of the stamp duty depends on the rental payable and the lease term or the sale value as the case may be. This duty is paid by purchasing non-judicial Indian Stamp Paper, on which the lease/sale agreements are documented.

Improvements:

Generally, physical changes which enhance the capital value of land or buildings. These may include additional buildings, extensions to existing buildings, installation of new services, e.g. Central heating and air conditioning and infrastructure works. On the other hand, mere replacement by a modern equivalent if something worn out would normally be regarded as a repair rather than an improvement. The distinction has legal and taxation consequences.

Indenture:

A deed between two or more parties, each party having his own copy. Originally copies were all included in a single document from which each was torn or cut along a wavy (intended) line. Institutional investors: These are generally taken to include banks, pension funds, insurance companies, unit trusts and investment trusts, which are together commonly referred to in the investment field as the “institutions”. Investment yield: The annual percentage return which is considered to be for a specific valuation in an investment being expressed as the ratio of annual net income (actual or estimated) to the capital value. It is therefore a measure of an investor’s opinion about the prospects and risks attached to that investment. The better the prospects and lower the risks, the lower the expected yield and thus the greater the capital value. The required yield from an investment is estimated in the light of such factors as:

a) the security in real terms of the capital invested;

b) the security in real terms and regularity of income;

c) the ability to adjust the income to reflect market conditions;

d) the complexity and cost of management;

e) the ease and likely cost of realizing the capital;

f) the tax position

Internal rate of return (IRR):

1. The rate of interest (expressed as a percentage) at which all-future cash flows (positive and negative) must be discounted in order that the net present value of those cash flows should be equal to zero. It is found by trial and error by applying present values at different rates of interest in turn to the net cash flow. It is something called the discounted cash flow rate of return.

2. An alternative explanation might be: the highest rate of interest (expressed as a percentage) at which funded f cash flow generated is to be sufficient to repay the original outlay at the end of the project life.

J

Joint agent:

One or two or more agents jointly instructed by a principal to act on his behalf. In the case of estate agents this is normally on the basis that if any one of the agents effect the sale, letting or other joint agent(s) will share the remuneration in agreed proportions. None of these agents would be entitled to a commission if the transaction is concluded as a result of someone else’s introduction.

Joint sole agent:

One of two or more agents jointly instructed as the only agents entitled to represent the principal. It is customary for the joint agents to share any commission earned on an agreed basis, irrespective of which agent effects the sale or letting.

K

Kiosk:

A small enclosed retailed outlet, normally without toilet facilities and in the retail area, frequently located in a public concourse or other place where it may remain open place where it may remain open only during peak times and be closed securely when there are no customers. Kiosks are now sometimes included in managed shopping schemes.

L

Land assembly:

The process of forming a single site from a number of land, usually for eventual development or redevelopment. This will include acquisition of individual interest the eventual development or redevelopment. This will include acquisition of the individual interests, removal or discharge of any restrictive covenants or other encumbrances and obtaining physical possession, when required, from occupiers.

Landlord:

The owner of an interest in land who, in consideration of a rent or other payment (e.g. A premium), grants the right to exclusive possession of the whole or part of their land to another person for a specific or determinable period by way of a lease or tenancy.

Lease agreement:

An agreement, usually written, between the lessor and the lessee, which allows for the conveyance of property to the tenant under a contract, and confers usage and control rights to the tenant for the duration of lease. Apart from financial terms and conditions, several clauses describing the other binding terms and conditions of the agreement are also documented.

License:

The lawful grant of a right to do something, which would otherwise be illegal or wrongful. It may be gratuitous, contractual or coupled with an interest in land. The grantor of license is the licensor and the grantee is the licensee. A gratuitous (“Mere” or “bare”) license can always be revoked (i.e.. Cancelled), but revocability of a contractual license depends on the terms of the contract. A license coupled with an interest in land may be irrevocable and unlike the other two categories, may be binding on successors in title of the licensor. One example of license is permission, usually required in writing, given specifically by an owner to a tenant, enabling something to be done which otherwise would be in breach of a term of the lease. A license does not itself transfer any interest in the land but may authorise the licensee to enter the licensor’s land for some specific purposes of the license; the licensor may enter the land and use it in any way not inconsistent with the rights of the licensee. However, a landlord may authorise by license some act or omission by a tenant, which would otherwise be a breach of the terms of the lease.

Load bearing:

The capacity of an element in a building structure to support a weight in addition to its own, whether vertically or laterally. Thus a load-bearing wall is one, which supports part of the structure in addition to its own weight.

M

Maintenance in property parlance:

The keeping of a building, structure or other physical feature in a specified e.g. Wind and weather tight, condition. The approved cost of maintenance may be deductible for income taxation.

Mattha:

Frontage of a building with the main road.

Mortgage:

The conveyance of a legal or equitable interest in freehold or leasehold property as security for a loan and with provision for redemption on repayment of the loan. The lender (mortgagee) has powers of recovery in the event of default by the borrower (mortgagor). A mortgage is a form of land charge and can be either legal or equitable.

N

Negotiation:

Discussion, written or otherwise, between two or more parties no different sides, the aim being to reach a common agreement.

Non-confirming use:

The use of a property, which does not conform to the allocation of the area for planning purposes. Such a property may have been built in conformity with the planning requirement at the time and a policy change ensued; more usually, the property was constructed before planning control was introduced.

Net present value method (NPV):

A method used in discounted cash flow analysis to find the sum of money representing the difference between the present value of all inflows and outflows of cash associated with the project by discounting each at a target yield.

O

Open market value:

1. The best price which might reasonably be expected to be obtained at arms’ length for an interest in a property at the date of valuation, subject to any statutory assumptions which may be required.

2. For the purpose of asset valuations this is defined by the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors (UK) as the best price which might reasonably be expected to be obtained for an interest in a property at the date of valuation assuming:

-a willing seller

-a reasonable period in which to negotiate the sale

-that values will remain static during that period

-that the property will be freely exposed to the market; and

-that no account will be taken of any higher price that might be paid by a person with a special interest.

-Outgoings Costs incurred by the owner of an interest in property, usually calculated on a yearly basis. e.g. management, repairs, rates, insurance and rent payable to the holder of a superior interest, as appropriate to his contractual or other liabilities. It is prudent to make annual provision for future items involving expenditure at intervals of more than one year.

 

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Baby Boomers Will Drive Real Estate Growth

Author: / Category: Real Estate
Real Estate Advisor asked:


Baby boomers, baby boomers, baby boomers; we all hear this term over and over again. So who are the baby boomers? Baby boomers are people in the United States who were born between 1946 and 1964. Approximately 78.2 million people fall into this category.

As a group, baby boomers comprise the largest population cohort in the history of the United States. The size of the group gives it vast influence over American politics, popular cultural, and of course, real estate. To evaluate the influence of the baby boomers on the future of real estate, the National Association of Realtors (NAR) conducted a study in 2006. The findings of the research were published in report entitled Baby Boomers and Real Estate: Today and Tomorrow. Below are some highlights from the NAR study.

AGE DISTRBUTION

According to the NAR report, baby boomers now range in age from 42 to 60 years old. The typical baby boomer is 50 years old, and the oldest of the baby boomers turned 60 in 2006. About 46% of baby boomers are in their 40s, and about 25% are at least 55 years old.

HOUSEHOLD INCOME

As a group, baby boomers are in their peak earning years. In 2005, baby boomers had a household income of $64,700, and about 25% them had a household income of at least $100,000 per year.

HOME OWNERSHIP

About 78% of baby boomers own a home, which is higher than the national ownership rate of 69%. About 96% of baby boomers believe that home ownership is a good financial investment.

FUTURE REAL ESTATE PURCHASES

About 10%, or 7.8 million of all baby boomers, said they were likely to purchase additional real estate in the next 12 months. Of these potential buyers, two-thirds were planning on buying a primary residence, 26% want to buy land, 19% want rental property, 15% want a vacation home or seasonal home, and 14% want a commercial property.

WHAT FEATURES ATTRACT BOOMERS

When baby boomers were asked about what features are most important to them, 38% wanted a lower cost of living, 38% wanted to be near family, 38% wanted easy access to quality health care, 37% wanted a better climate, and 36% wanted to be near a body of water.

PREFERRED COMMUNITY AMENITIES

When baby boomers were asked about the type of community amenities that interest them most, about 18% wanted to be near cultural offerings, 9% wanted to be closer to their family, 4% wanted to be on a golf course, and 3% wanted easy access to educational facilities.

WHERE DO BOOMERS WANT TO RETIRE

When baby boomers were asked about where they want to retire, 33% of them want to retire in a rural area, 30% in a small town, 25% in a suburban area, and only 12% in an urban community.

BOOMERS AND THEIR REAL ESTATE AGENTS

Baby boomers consistently use the services of a real estate agent. Approximately 60% of homebuyers and 79% of home sellers used a real estate agent in their last transaction.

SUMMARY

The baby boomers have had and will continue to have a significant impact on the real estate market. As the boomers near retirement, they continue to value real estate and will continue to invest in properties and land. Real estate agents would be well served to understand what baby boomers want in terms of their real estate investments, and design strategies that target the needs of this enormous population cohort. For more information, read the NAR report entitled, Baby Boomers and Real Estate: Today and Tomorrow


Profiles in Green Building: the Austin Real Estate Market

Author: / Category: Environment
Escapeso Austin Real Estate asked:


Austin has long been a home for friendly folk- friendly to each other, friendly to animals, and friendly to the environment. What used to be considered as only the concerns of hippies and the bohemian sect, environmentalism is now at the forefront of commercial and residential design, and “green” businesses are popping up nationwide. Austin, however, was the first city in the United States to establish a local green-building program, laying out environmentally friendly and sustainable guidelines for home builders and its interested citizens back in 1991.

Since the Austin real estate market is known nationwide as the leader of these green building methods, the National Association of Home Builders chose the city as its hub to launch an industry-wide effort to establish green-building guidelines in 2004. These guidelines now provide a practical nationally recognized framework for builders to follow to reduce a home’s environmental impact by making them more energy efficient, improving indoor environmental quality, and so on. Though Austin has already been using similar guidelines for over a decade, now the rest of the country is following suit.

The City of Austin and Austin Energy provide a great resource to owners of Austin homes, and new home builders, who are looking for ways to conserve energy, and build an environmentally friendly home. The city’s website offers a list of companies willing to do an energy analysis of a home that will determine possible options to help the house conserve more energy, with suggestions ranging from air conditioning repair to weather stripping doors. The city then will offer a 20 to 75% of that cost.

For those Austinites building a new house or commercial building, the city created the Austin Energy Green Building organization to promote the construction of high quality, more sustainable buildings, and has even zoned sections of the city’s real estate to require an Austin Energy Green Building rating. Four times a year, the organization also holds a one day “Green By Design” workshop open to the public. The workshop provides an overview of the green building process, and brings in design, building, engineering, landscaping, and Austin real estate professionals with many years of experience in homebuilding and remodeling, to help make sense of it all.

In March of this year, Austin was named as the city leading the country in “cleantech” by SustainLane, an online resource center that offers sustainability tips to state and local government. The term “cleantech” refers to venture capital-based startups based in green technology, with Austin as the front runner with seven such startups, ranging from internet-controlled irrigation to geothermal energy technologies. To keep Austin on the cutting edge of green technology, the Clean Energy Incubator program was set up to help young clean energy businesses succeed by commercializing their ideas. With citizens, government, and forward thinking businesses, Austin will likely be the city to follow in the environmental battle for years to come.


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