Under-construction vs. ready homes: Take your pick

Under-construction vs. ready homes: Take your pick

We have compiled a list of advantages and disadvantages of both, thus allowing you to make a well-informed decision

  Adilemma that often overwhelms homebuyers is choosing between a ready-to-move-in (RTMI) home or an under-construction one.  Therefore, let us spell out the advantages and disadvantages of each option so that you can make an informed decision during your homebuying process.

  Buying a finished project saves you time, but it also means paying a higher price.  Moreover, in the case of RTMI homes, you can check the quality of the final product, which is not possible for a home that is still under construction.

  With under-construction projects, there is greater flexibility in terms of payment as compared to RTMI.  You can pay a token amount, and then easily pay the remaining balance over a longer period until the construction is complete.  Additionally, you have the freedom to personalise the interiors according to your preferences.

  “RTMI properties offer a good value proposition to discerning homebuyers and are least risky.  Not only do they offer instant gratification, but they also do not attract GST.   Under construction properties fall under the purview of GST, levied at five percent of the base cost of a property.  Of course, this does not mean that all RTMI properties are risk-free by default.  The number of illegal constructions or projects with non-sanctioned additional floors now being identified stand mute testimony to that fact,” explains Amit Goenka, CEO, Nisus Finance.

  While earlier there was a difference in pricing (around 10 and 30 percent ) between a ready property and an under-construction property, the gap has begun to simmer down.  “ The gap between ready-to-move-in homes and those still under construction has narrowed down over the years because there was an abundance of unsold homes of under-construction homes are going up due to increased input costs such as land and construction expenses,” mentions Prashanth Thakur, regional director, and head of research Anarock Group.

 What are the key things that a buyer should keep in mind before investing in a home ( irrespective of whether it is a ready home or an under-construction home ) ?  “ Make sure the developer has a good track-record of completing projects on time.  When buying an under-construction home, avoid making a large up-front payment and instead consider construction-linked plans.  If you’re considering a ready-to-move-in property, ensure all the amenities and facilities are up and running.  Check for documents such as the occupancy certificate, title clearance, and other legal requirements.  Lastly, consider your financial situation, family size, and job location, to determine which option suits you best,” says Akash Pharande, managing director of realty firm.

  Manju Yagnik, senior vice president, NAREDCO Maharashtra concludes, “ Invest in a project, which is registered under the Real Estate ( Regulation and Development ) Act (RERA) as it will ensure that the builder follows ethical business practices, making your investment secure.  Secondly, it will reduce the chances of project delays.  Moreover, it will facilitate a speedy resolution of any complaints or issues that may arise during the construction process.”