Tuesday 5 March 2013

Boman Rustom Irani gives you tips on investing in real estate



By Boman Rustom Irani - Lately, real estate is not really basking in the glory of a good reputation. Things like real estate bubble, not a buyer’s marker, increased supply without demand, stuck up projects because of FSI issues, are commonly heard statements. So in this gloom scenario, are you planning to invest in real estate? Real estate mogul Boman Rustom Irani gives you tips on investing in real estate, read on to know more:

1.    Be realistic about your expectations while investing in real estate. Is it a short term investment or a long term one? Have you checked the background and other projects of the real estate company you are going with?

2.    What kind of project are you investing in? Is it an under construction project or a ready one? Are you paying in slabs or paying everything upfront? Are you planning to pop it off before it’s ready and the value is appreciated or are you planning to hold on to it till you get possession? Is renting it out part of the plan?

3.    Do you have any prior experience with real estate investments? If not, speak to a legal advisor, your friends who have invested in real estate and weigh your pros and cons.

4.    Don’t invest in multiple projects unless you have a proper plan in place. Some people think it’s a great idea to invest in three or four projects by paying the minimum first slab and then selling them all in between. This type of a plan can be very heavy on your pocket, if the market takes an unexpected route.

5.    Study the market trend, check out various projects in person and do a thorough background check on the real estate company you are planning to invest in.

Just like any other form of investment, with real estate too you should safeguard yourself first and not take any unnecessary risks by getting lured with short term gains.      

Friday 1 March 2013

Quick tips to save money in 2013 by Boman Rustom Irani

So how has the new year been so far for you? Is it exactly how you expected it to be, one with a fresh start where you finally have your finances in order – your investments planned, your debt cleared and your expenses under control? Messy finances can be like a vicious circle and it is often hard to see yourself climb out of that ditch. But brace yourself, because it is not impossible.

New age businessman and first generation real estate tycoon Boman Rustom Irani has quick tips for you to finally get your ducks in a row and start afresh in 2013. Read on to know more:

  • Enlighten yourself! How much do you bring home? Are you the only earning member? How much are you paying in the form of interest on your credit cards? How many EMI payments are you are currently paying every month? What else is going out of your paycheck that you are not aware of? 
  • Mandatory saving is the best way to ensure that you are putting aside some funds every month. Till you consciously decide that you are going to save a certain amount every month, you will always feel that you have no extra funds to create savings. 
  • Lower your overheads. When you are used to spending on things for a long time, they almost become necessities, which you can’t do without. So ask yourself the next time you are going for a sushi dinner or to a Brazilian blowout salon is this really necessary or can this money be put to better use? 
  • Be serious but don’t drive yourself up the wall! The more you flinch and fluster about money matters, the harder it seems. So take a deep breath and relax. With effective planning, conscious thinking and may be some expert help, you can get right back on track, as far as your finances are concerned.