Pros and Cons of Buying a Home via a Real Estate Agent

When you go to buy a house, you come across various channels, from purchasing directly from the real estate developer to going via property consultants and real estate agents. The tough choice of picking a channel falls upon you – what is the best way to go in your journey of becoming a homeowner. Many people opt for real estate agents, as they come with a lot of benefits, such as reducing hassle, saving time, and more.

However, there are also some disadvantages that they may come with. In this article, we take a detailed look at both the advantages and disadvantages of buying a home through a real estate agent. 

Pros of having a Real Estate Agent

• Better utilization of time: When you are working with a real estate agent, you do not have to worry about carrying out all the responsibilities of tasks involved in the purchase of a house. They can help you close a deal quickly with their knowledge and expertise in the area. In other words, real estate agents ensure that you don’t spend all your time looking for a place to buy, comparing properties and finding banks for your mortgage. They do the handy work for you.
• Improved bargaining and negotiations: A good real estate agent will not only bargain on your behalf but also ensure that you get the property at the right price. With their art of persuasion and knowledge in the field, you can rest assured that you will be offered a reasonable price by the seller. They will also help you avoid making any financial mistakes.
• Knowledge of market trends: A certified real estate agent knows his trade and understands the local market in a way that you cannot. They are aware of the market trends and hold better judgment when it comes to setting price points and locations. And in cases, where they may not have enough information about a particular area, they know where to find it. They can advise you on better areas or places that you should avoid buying a house in. 
• Legal work and contracts: In simple words, there are better chances of you avoiding any scams and mistakes when you are going via a real estate agent. They can help you with the finalization of your contracts and any paperwork that is required to ensure a legal contract. 

Cons of having a Real Estate Agent

• Divided attention: Most real agents are swamped with work and dealing with multiple clients, which may result in a lack of attention to you. This can cause delays and slightly less profitable deals sometimes. It is important to ensure that your real estate agent will be regular and available at your service at every stage of the buying process.
• Paying high commissions: Hiring a full-time real estate agent is not a cheap option, you will have to shed a good amount of money. They have standard commission rates that are quite high, usually ranging between 5 to 10 percent of the selling price.
• Dealing with a middleman: Engaging with a real estate agent for the purchase of your house may lead to a loss of power from your hands as they would be the ones dealing with all the interactions. This may lead to loss of crucial information from reaching you or a conflict of interest in some cases. It is very important to have trust with the agent as they would be sharing your interests with the seller. 
• Credibility: It is very important that you do your research before you decide on an agent. Look for experiences, certifications, past dealing and so forth to ensure that your real estate agent meets the mark. Making sure that the person who is working on your behalf is trustworthy and credible is half the problem solved. 

In conclusion, know that a real estate agent is superb at selling themselves as that is a part of their job, but just because something looks good, it doesn’t mean it will be good. Do your research before you pick any person to help you find the house of your dreams.

Shapoorji Pallonji Real Estate offering luxury 2 BHK Flats in Mumbai, Thane, Pune, & Bangalore at a prime location with all luxurious and modern amenities.

How does a Water Treatment Plant work?

Shapoorji Pallonji Water Treatment Plant

At a time when consumers are becoming more aware of the need to save water and transitioning towards greener practices, the lesser-known water treatment plants are capturing more attention. These plants are responsible for transforming waste water that would otherwise be discarded and become pollutants into reusable water for agriculture and in plumbing or even further distilled and enriched with nutrients for drinking water. 

The water treatment process at these plants takes place in stages through a network of sewers that are connected to homes, commercial buildings or other infrastructure such as streets and schools. These sewers continuously deliver the waste water and solids to the treatment plant’s tanks or basins.

At the water treatment plant, it all begins with the pre-treatment phase. It mainly involves the removal of large particles in the water which may include chunks of garbage such as rags, plastic, leaves, branches, cans, stones, and other waste. This is raked away through screens within the water basins that are also capable of handling overflow of water in case of heavy rainfall. At this stage, smaller particles like bacteria, chemicals, and oils can still remain in the water as it passes on to the next stage. 

Next comes the primary treatment phase where a more thorough filtration and clarification of the water happens. Here, the water collects in large basins or sedimentation tanks allowing the smaller particles to settle at the bottom due to gravity while the grease and oil rise to the surface. The fats and chemicals are therefore skimmed off at the surface and scrapers direct the solid matter into the sludge treatment equipment.

This is followed by secondary treatment where the water is further agitated and aerated to break it down and add microorganisms to remove carbon and nitrogen from organic waste. For instance, some plants mix biomass with the waste to develop activated sludge that will be recycled while other plants pass the waste over a biofilm. Other technologies may also be used such as biological aerated filters and membrane bioreactors. The treated water is then collected in a secondary tank for further clarification.

Finally, the sludge treatment phase begins. Here, the remaining water and sludge is treated with the help of gravity that separates the organic waste from heavy particles which will be transferred to a landfill. The leftover sludge is centrifuged through a thickener where the then stabilised sludge can be transformed into fertilizer. The waste water on the other hand is treated again to remove other unwanted chemicals and disinfected before being returned to the water supply. 

All in all, throughout this whole process, the water treatment plant cleans sewage to remove pollutants and restore the oxygen content for cleaner water. 

How do Solar Panels work in the cloudy or rainy season?

 

The benefits of choosing solar panels over other forms of electricity generation are undeniable. It is a great renewable source of energy that is also cost effective.

So what about accessibility?

We all know that solar panels use sunlight to create electricity for all kinds of residential and commercial uses. However, when deciding whether to choose solar power as the main source of electricity, we often have to consider how much sunlight will be accessible for the solar panels. What might come as a great consolation to those facing heavy rains or cloudy days is that solar panels can still receive sunlight in those conditions.

The photovoltaic cells in the solar panels absorb solar radiation from the sunlight and then convert into a flow of electric current. This can be done even in the cloudy or rainy season because solar panels are able to absorb indirect sunlight even when the light is reflected or partially blocked by clouds. There will always be visible light that can penetrate through clouds and rain even in harsh storms. Solar panels work the same way as they do on a bright day although the direct sunlight is more effective than on a rainy or cloudy day.

Solar panels are generally able to only generate 30-50% of their full capacity due to cloudy weather or 10-20% of their full capacity due to heavy rain. For instance, if a solar power system is able to generate 4kWh of electricity on a normal summer day, it can reduce to generating around 1-2 kWh of electricity on a cloudy day or 0.5-1 kWh of electricity on a rainy day. 

So, what is the solution to managing this reduced capacity of electricity generation?

It all depends on the type of solar power system that has been installed. 

For Utility Grid Solar Power Systems

These systems are connected to a main utility grid operated by the electricity providers. Extra electricity that solar panels generate is sent to the grid, leaving only the electricity that is required by the consumer. This way, in situations where the weather doesn’t allow the solar panels to perform at their peak, the extra energy that the consumer requires is pulled from the main grid. The electricity provider will then charge the consumer for those extra units at the end of the month. Similarly the consumer can earn when solar panels  generate excess power in sunny weather that is supplied to the utility grid.

For Off Grid Solar Power Systems

Although these systems are not connected to the utility grid, they do have a Solar PV Energy Storage System connected in case of electricity shortage. There needs to be adequate storage capacity in these batteries for situations where it rains or is continuously cloudy for multiple days. Extra batteries or a small diesel generator are good precautions for worst case scenarios. It is also advisable to oversize when opting for an off grid solar power system, allowing for a guaranteed supply of extra electricity stored in the batteries. 

Sterling and Wilson Solar

Sterling and Wilson Solar offers a complete range of Turnkey and Balance of System (BoS) solutions for our utility-scale, rooftop, and floating solar power projects. Our solutions include design, solar epc and project management and operations and maintenance.

What includes Operation and Maintenance for Large Scale Solar Power Plants?

 

It is very important to identify the steps involved in the maintenance of a solar power plant as it ensures its smooth operation and functioning. 

How is this maintenance done?

Who are the people involved?

And how can one ensure maximum output from a said large-scale solar power plant? 

To put it simply, the maintenance of a solar plant is majorly handled by the solar developer to ensure that the equipment’s life is maximized. In general, solar power plants do not require high maintenance as they do not have any moving parts, however, preventative maintenance is of utmost importance.

Below, in this article, we take a look at how –

Maintenance of a Large Scale Solar Power Plant

The primary maintenance activity performed for any solar power plant is to keep the surface or the glass dust free. For this, regular inspections and checks need to be performed. 

Cleaning: Panels need to be washed with soft water to keep them dust-free. If they collect too much thick dirt or grime or bird droppings, cold water can be used along with a cleaning sponge to clean the surface. One may also use soft detergents along with water to ensure easy and efficient cleaning. Metal brushes should be avoided at all costs, as they lead to early wearing off of the panel surface. 

Checking for defects: Solar panels need periodic visual inspections to look for any cracks, chips, delamination, water leaks, and discolouration. Whenever a defect is identified, it is noted down in the logbook so that it can be checked for how it is affecting the generation output of the system. If it is detected that the performance of the module is lower than the rated value, then it should be replaced or repaired. 

Structural stability: The mounting frames for the solar module need to be examined to make sure that they are firmly secure and that the mounting bolts are rust-free and sustainable. The junction boxes of the solar panels also require regular inspections to ensure that the wires are not chewed or destroyed by any rodents or insects.

Inverter controller: A dry cloth is used to clean any dust that has been accumulated on the component. After this, a visual inspection is done to ensure that all the LED light indicators are working and the wires leading to and from the device are not loose. Regular self-checks would ensure that the charge controller indicates the system is charging when the sun is shining. 

Wirings: Wire installations need to be checked for any cracks or breaks in the insulation. Panel boxes need to be scrutinized to prevent rodents and insects from making it their home. They should also be checked for any type of corrosion or burning. 

All of the above maintenance checks ensure that you preserve the life of your solar panel.

Sterling and Wilson Solar have experience of 7+ years in O&M Solar Panel Maintenance. SWSL meticulously caring for the useful life of assets, maximizing their profitability, streamlining their performance and availability, and minimizing their consumption and operating costs.

Why invest in Hadapsar, Pune?

 

Hadapsar, located in the eastern suburbs of Pune, is quickly becoming a prime location for those looking to invest. This is mainly due to the emergence of major IT companies and well-developed infrastructure in the area, making it a great investment opportunity for homebuyers. There are more reasons why Hadapsar presents itself as a good investment opportunity for those doing house hunting.

Let us take a look at why to invest in Hadapsar in this article. 

What makes Hadapsar a good investment opportunity?

There are many reasons that make Hadapsar great for homebuyers. Below we take a look at some of the major reasons why!

Commercial Zone

Hadapsar is a growing commercial hub of Pune. It is the home to three important economic zones, namely – Phursungi IT Park, Magarpatta City, and Amanora Parktown. It is also the place where a lot of big businesses have their offices, such as TCS, ADP, IBM, Sybase, Mphasis, SAS, Amdocs, John Deere, Option One, Accenture, Aruman and Patni. 

With this rapid growth in industries in the area, Hadapsar is a good investment location for home seekers and for commercial users too.

Accessibility

Hadapsar is located near the Pune-Solapur Road, also known as Mumbai-Hyderabad National Highway, making it an easily accessible option for a lot of people who have to travel frequently. The area also has an efficient bus service network with the Hadapsar bus stand Pune Swargate bus depot nearby. It lies just 5 kilometers from Magarpatta and is well connected to Solapur and Nagar Road. 

Cheaper Real Estate

Real estate in Hadapsar is far more affordable when compared to its nearby areas such as Magarpatta, Fatimanagar and Camp, with properties available between the range of Rs. 5,000 – 6,000 per square feet. 

Good Social Infrastructure

Hadapsar is home to some of the best schools, colleges and hospitals in the city – from City International School to Delhi Public School and Amanora school to hospitals like Columbia Asia Hospital, Sahyadri Specialty Hospital and Sanjeevani Nursing Home. All of these make it a good investment location for homebuyers who would like to be within close proximity of well-developed social infrastructure. 

All of these factors make Hadapsar a good investment opportunity for you or anyone who wants to live close to a booming economy. As of now, the prices of properties in this area are not as high as some other areas, but they are rapidly rising due to the number of projects being developed here. 

Joyville Hadapsar Annexe is one of the best investment options in Pune. It is a perfect location for anyone looking to live in well-designed homes with several diverse lifestyle amenities. Joyville Hadapsar Annexe offering 1, 2 and 3 BHK flat in Hadapsar, Pune, starting at Rs.37.5 lakh* (all incl.).To know more about click here. 

The complete home inspection checklist for buyers

 

Picking a home for your future is an important decision that requires a considerable amount of research and thorough contemplation. Once a buyer has found the right home, the decision-making journey doesn’t end there. That home needs to be vetted and checked for any inconsistencies or faults that may have been missed out earlier. This is the inspection stage of the home buying process.

So, how does a buyer go about it? Here’s a detailed checklist. 

1. Find the right professional home inspector.

Although a buyer must be responsible to check out the house themselves, it also requires an inspection from a seasoned and experienced professional. When choosing which professional home inspectors to hire, the buyer must make sure they know how much experience they have, whether they are certified, whether they have insurance against errors or omissions, and what type of report will be issued – written, oral, or both.

2. Confirm what is included in the professional home inspection.

It should be a thorough job including the inspection of structure and foundation, general construction, plumbing, electrical, windows and doors, kitchen and bathroom, appliances, interior walls and ceiling, ventilation and drainage, and more.

3. Contact the property owner to finalize the date, time, and duration of the inspection.

The home inspection should occur either 7 days before the contract is accepted or within 14 days after and it is recommended to be scheduled within daylight hours. It will ideally take an estimated 2 to 2 and a half hours to be completed, giving enough time for a thorough check.

4. Provide the buyer’s contact details to the home inspector.

Ensure that there is a formal agreement with the home inspector while providing them necessary information such as full name, current address, and phone number.

5. Provide property details to the inspector and arrange access to the home.

Ensure that the home inspector has the property address, specific directions, and full access to the home including lock box, garage, closets, attics, etc.

6. Inform the owner that all appliances, systems and equipment will be inspected. 

The owner must be advised to turn on all utilities including gas, electric, hot water heater, and refrigerator while also removing all items that may block access to any electric panels or amenities and appliances.

7. Accompany the home inspector and ensure all utilities are active.

This will allow the buyer to be completely informed throughout the inspection process. It is encouraged to ask questions and pay attention to minor details that might not be included in the inspection report.

8. Conduct personal inspections to rule out obvious deficiencies.

The buyer should also take time out the conduct their own basic inspection noting any obvious cracks in the foundation, leakages, electrical malfunctions, conditions of the appliances, painting and repairs required.

9. Payment to the professional home inspector is done upon completion of the inspection.

The price of the inspection varies according to the property location, the inspector, the size of the home and the scope of the inspection and reporting. The best way to pick the right prices is to get estimates and compare between different inspectors to get the best value for money.

10.  Ensure that the charges for the home inspection are fair and accurate.

A home inspection in India costs between Rs. 2,500 to Rs. 20,000 depending on charges that may vary according to the size of the home.

Offering homes in major locations all across the country, Joyville Homes have experts that will help you inspect the home you choose. This home inspection can now be done face to face on-site or via an online video call to accommodate the current changing times.

So, go ahead and complete this checklist before you settle down in the home of your dreams!

Mi Vida – Thika Superhighway and Its Effect on Real Estate Development in Nairobi

 

Image Source – Wikipedia

A partnership between the African Development Bank (AfDB) and the Government of Kenya to promote sustainable development and economic growth has led to the construction of an eight-lane ultra-modern expressway, also affectionately known as ‘Nairobi-Thika Superhighway’.

The project that was estimated at around US $360 million was approved by the AfDb in November 2007 and was provided with a financial package of US $175 million for civil works and consultancy services and a US $5 million for feasibility study and a detailed design of a mass rapid-transit system. The Kenyan government, in addition, contributed US $80 million and the Exim Bank of China contributed US $100 million to the project for which the work started in 2009 and was completed in 2012.

Effects of Thika Superhighway on Real Estate Development in Nairobi

Thika Superhighway has turned out to be a driving force for the country’s economic development. It has helped integrate Africa and improve the living conditions of Africans. It has improved the accessibility, affordability, and reliability of the transport infrastructure of the country. The advantages of the superhighway have attracted various businesses from supermarkets, car dealerships to hotels and real estate. 

Mi Vida Homes

One such meticulous construction along the Thika superhighway is Mi Vida, a new residential development project that is a joint venture between Actis and Shapoorji Pallonji Group. Launched in July 2019 to address the shortage of middle-income families, Mi Vida Homes promises to offer 3000 middle-income housing units over the next 5 years. Mi Vida Garden City Nairobi is the perfect combination of innovative design, modern engineering, trusted construction, and an on-time delivery record. 

What does the research say?

As per research, urban sprawl has followed the construction of the Thika superhighway of the Nairobi metropolis in Kenya. It suggests that with the improvement in infrastructure and less travel time, the city of Nairobi has also expanded in a direction where people want to settle in areas that are in close proximity to the roads for accessibility benefits. 

The areas around Thika superhighway enjoy high returns, several times over areas such as Kitengela, Mlolongo and Rongai. 

Due to the rising prices of residential properties in the Kenyan city of Nairobi, the real estate industry has been booming. This is mainly attributed to the development of the Thika superhighway that has improved transport networks, social amenities, industries, educational institutions and commercial centres. 

In other words, the construction of Thika Superhighway has in all ways helped the real estate industry grow and expand in a sustainable way.