Just when you thought real estate prices were beginning to stabilise, prices have dropped again.
After DLF’s price correction in its Bannerghatta Road property, real estate major Sobha Developers dropped prices by a whopping 22%. Sobha was the first to effect a price drop of 8% to 10% three months ago. Now, some of its properties like Sobha Sunscape are selling at 22% lower than the price quoted three months ago.
According to a senior ICICI Home Search official, “The first round of price drops by developers didn’t create any market stir. Many are now looking at a second round that’s sure to create excitement among buyers.”
According to developers’ association CREDAI, Bangalore property prices have fallen by 15% to 20% as compared to the same period last year and a further drop is unlikely. A 2-bedroom, 1,200 sqft apartment at Sobha Sunscape is available for Rs 38 lakh, which includes car park, registration and stamp duty charges, VAT charges, as well as maintenance deposit and BWSSB and Bescom charges.
Except in two high-end villa projects, the company has dropped prices in all properties by 15%, though some rates may be available only during its ongoing property mela.
J C Sharma, MD, Sobha Developers, said though the real estate situation still remains challenging, “the current market situation allows us to pass on benefits to the consumer”. Interest rates have dropped to 8%, service tax is out, and stamp duty rate has fallen.
“After DLF dropped prices, there’s been tremendous excitement. Today, many project site visits are happening, something consumers had stopped for the past 4-5 months,” said a leading real estate agent who requested anonymity.
Source: Times of India
