What should buyers look for when viewing a sample flat

 What should buyers look for when viewing a sample flat?

   A sample flat is a marketing practice adopted by developers to showcase the interiors and space management.  Therefore, one must be circumspect before   making a purchase decision based merely on such a visit

Buying a home, for many, is an emotional decision.  As a result, most people take this step soon after viewing the sample flat when visiting an under-construction project site.

  Most buyers feel euphoric when they enter a sample flat and are absolutely enthralled by the exquisite interiors and stylish fixtures.  But there are several other factors that buyers must consider before making their final decision.

What is a sample flat?

A sample flat is a fully furnished apartment prepared by the developer on or near the site of the proposed housing project.  It gives buyers an indication of the available space and offers possibilities of how it can be effectively utilised.  The sample flat helps buyers retain their confidence in the developer and gives them valuable insights into the overall look of the flat.  “A sample flat helps buyers envision their future home.  Based on the look and feel of the sample flat, one decides whether the investment is worth it or not.”

        These sample flats are used by developers as an effective marketing tool to attract prospective home-buyers.  “This strategy of viewing the sample flat before buying helps one foresee their new home and provides them with the details of the interiors, fittings, carpet area, and fixtures to be used in their future home.”  As these flats are furnished by professionals, they help buyers in optimising their space.  As ventilation and natural light are extremely crucial in a home, a sample flat can give a fair idea of the placement of windows and the flow of natural light in a home.

What should a buyer consider?

A simple detail that buyers often forget is that the sample flat has been designed for visitors much like how we decorate our house for guests.  For instance, developers might spend Rs 20-25 lakh on the interior design of a sample two-BHK flat.  These flats are designed by professional interior designers who use premium flooring, mirrors, and lighting techniques.  The quality of furniture in a sample flat and the actual flat will be different.  In a sample flat, the kitchen equipment, lighting fixtures, and bathroom accessories are top of the line; some of these features might be out of a prospective buyer’s budget for the time being.

Don’t get carried away by the plush interiors

Before seeing a sample flat, request the developer to let you visit their other projects to get an overall idea of their work, construction quality, and on-time delivery record.  Estimate the exact built-up area, carpet area, floor plans, fittings, fixtures and other relevant details.

        When you visit a sample flat, you must ascertain various aspects.  It is important to scan all the rooms carefully.  “A buyer must not get lured by the glamour of the sample flat and must do their due-diligence.  First and foremost, the buyer must check the overall layout of the flat and see if it meets their requirements in terms of the size of the rooms, balconies, toilets, etc.  Moreover, some buyers may prefer an extra balcony, or a small puja room/corner.  In that case, a sample flat may help the buyer ascertain these features.”

        Compare the brochure and layout plan with the dimensions and specifications of the sample flat.  Besides this, one must check the type of flooring used and gauge the quality of the windows, electrical work and sanitary fittings.  After the inspection, one must verify with the developer if the same fittings and fixtures will be used in the actual flat as well.

Is this legal?

Showing a sample flat is permitted according to law.  So, if you want to prove that there was a difference between the sample flat and the actual flat, evidence is needed.  Most buyers do not have any documentary proof of the sample flat.  Photography or videos in most projects is prohibited.  After the project is sold out, the actual sample flat is demolished before possession.  In most agreements, there is a clause, which mentions that the final design may vary subject to approvals.  This indicates that the developer has the right to change or alter it without prior intimation.  Keeping this in mind, the onus lies on the buyer to do extensive research and due-diligence before making any investments.