Advantages of Investing in Uttarakhand Real Estate
Favorable State Regulations for Buyers
Uttarakhand's welcoming stance towards investors from other states ensures clear buying regulations. While there are no restrictions on property/plot size within municipal limits, purchasing agricultural land outside city areas is limited to 250 sq metres per person. However, family members can jointly acquire separate 250 sq metre land parcels. Compliance with the Land Ceiling Act applies if the agricultural land falls within city limits.
Diverse Property Options for Buyers
Prospective buyers have a plethora of options to choose from, ranging from apartments and villas to plots and agricultural land. The state capital, Dehradun, and the tourist destination Mussoorie offer a spectrum of properties, including small-sized two-bedroom apartments and plots. Villas and plotted developments are also available, catering to a wide price range from Rs 50 lakhs to Rs 10-12 crores.
Steady Appreciation in Property Rates
Developing and established areas in Uttarakhand have experienced steady appreciation in property prices, except for land. Regions like Mussoorie have witnessed significant jumps in property rates, driven by the flourishing hospitality and tourism industries.
Freehold Properties Facilitate Easy Transactions
All plotted developments in Uttarakhand are sold as freehold properties, allowing for easy mutation and transfer of ownership with necessary paperwork. This facilitates smooth registration for new buyers.
Emerging Popularity of Leasehold Model
With the entry of hospitality chains, room rents have surged, making residences attractive sources of rental income for second home buyers and investors. The leasehold model gains popularity, with properties being leased for shorter durations to meet the increasing demand for temporary stays due to COVID-related safety protocols.
Disadvantages of Investing in Uttarakhand Real Estate
Varied Property Prices Across Regions
Uttarakhand's strategically located properties in the hills often come with a premium price tag. Ready-to-move-in apartments and under-construction ones show significant price differences. Moreover, prices vary considerably between popular regions like Mussoorie and remote areas, where homestays can differ from Rs 3,000 per night to as low as Rs 1,000 per night.
Limited Availability of New Properties
Uttarakhand's increasing appeal to investors and vacation home buyers from nearby cities has intensified the real estate market. The demand for new properties, particularly in important regions, outpaces the supply, creating a competitive landscape. As a result, many buyers turn to older properties that require renovation, driving up prices.
High Maintenance Demands
Owning a second home for self-use often incurs high maintenance and upkeep costs. With limited personal usage, expenses like hiring caretaker staff and property maintenance can reach Rs 3 lakhs annually. Renting the property to vacation rental companies hinges on guest ratings, heavily reliant on caretaker services. Calculations reveal that expenses may outweigh earnings unless the second home becomes a permanent residence.