The real estate sector is pinning hopes on the new government for revival.

Confederation of Real Estate Developers Association of India (CREDAI) Chairman Lalit Kumar Jain expressed hope that the new government would bring in a positive change to real estate developers and buyers by introducing reforms given the challenges of slump in sales, high prices and liquidity crunch that the sector has been facing.

‘Housing for all’

“We expect the government to take concrete steps to implement its promise given in the BJP manifesto of ensuring ‘Housing for All’ in eight years,” he added.

For an immediate plan of action, Jain suggested efficient and accountable governance in building approval process to be initiated at the Centre and be strictly followed by all states.

He also suggested that realty sector reforms should cover administrative, banking, tax and legal aspects. “It is imperative to go for single window system of approvals and a balanced land policy that will help the farmers as well as developers,” added Jain.

Regulatory approvals

According to global realty consultancy JLL, India’s developers are hoping that the new government will expedite the process of granting regulatory approvals as the chronic lag in this regard has been a major obstacle for most of their projects.

In its latest report, JLL stated that the pending Real Estate Development Regulation & Development Bill is expected to be passed and land acquisition parameters are also expected to be eased so that availability of land is no longer a major constraint.

The report further highlighted that with the slowdown in home sales, developers have been battling a severe liquidity crunch and a rise in their inventory levels.

“Many prospective buyers have abstained from investing in property because of market negativity, high inflation, and high interest rates on home loans. Now, with pick-up in market sentiment, buyers are expected to snap into action. Increased sales, along with availability of funds from both domestic and foreign investors, will bring significant respite to developers and finally bring an end to the liquidity crunch that they have been facing,” the report added.

3 major promises

The three major promises made by the NDA in their manifesto that have direct pertinence to the real estate sector comprise development of 100 new cities, implementing a new land use policy and planning for low-cost housing.

Modi’s pledge to implement an affordable housing policy and thereby provide homes to every Indian family presents a $150-billion business opportunity to the sector. “The real estate industry now also has real hopes of being granted the coveted industry status, which will further ease fund flows,” said Santosh Kumar, CEO-Operations, JLL India.

“Meanwhile, consumers are optimistic about the impact that the new government will have on real estate pricing, and expect a reduction in home loans, implementation of the proposed GST framework and the implied tax benefits to buyers,” he added.

Source: Manish Jhan for The Hindu Business Line

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