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Green Building Certification: Understanding the Standards and Requirements

India is committed to reducing carbon emissions and optimising energy conservation efforts by 2030. In this effort to stand by its efforts to make Agenda 21 an actionable reality, both government and private corporations are undertaking a major transformation. Adding to this change is the development of environmental consciousness among the end consumers. In the real estate sector, the movement towards green housing comes from the increased demand for eco-friendly residential units. Understanding green building certification is important in this context.

What is a green building certification?
Green certifications are domestically or internationally accepted accreditations received by reputed organisations that rate or rank buildings on various environmental impact parameters. Developers voluntarily apply for these certifications. To receive the green rating, they need to submit supporting evidence such as design plans, evidence of renewable energy use, environmental impact study etc. There are two important green building certifications for residential housing projects in India.

IGBC 
Established in 2001, the Indian Green Building Council (IGBC) is part of the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII). The certification offered by the IGBC is based on the LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Green Building Standard, developed by the USGBC (United States Green Building Council). The IGBC certification is licensed from USGBC and is one of the most versatile rating systems for all types of structures and real estate projects in India.

The council offers green ratings to schools, healthcare buildings, SEZ, resorts, factories, townships, and railway stations, among many others. The IGBC also offers ratings for net zero energy, water, and waste buildings. For residential projects, the IGBC offers certification to existing and new buildings, homes, affordable housing, and residential societies. Your green home can have a Certified, Silver, Gold, or Platinum accreditation. The rating system depends on a number of macro and micro parameters, including design, water conservation, energy efficiency, materials used, resident health and wellbeing, and innovation.

IGBC is one of the most popular and widely accepted green certifications in the country. Apart from promoting accepted eco-friendly practices, it also recognises innovation in green structures.

GRIHA
The Green Rating for Integrated Habitat Assessment (GRIHA) certification is offered by TERI (The Energy and Resources Institute). This rating system for green homes was developed in collaboration with the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (Government of India). The GRIHA certification is India's first indigenously developed green rating system and was submitted as part of the Intended Nationally Determined Contributions (INDCs) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC).

The main goal of the GRIHA rating system is to measure aspects of building design and construction, such as energy consumption, water conservation and harvesting, and waste management. The idea is that if it can be measured, these factors can be managed, and the performance tested in ecological terms. The GRIHA rating is given to under-construction projects and completed buildings as well, but unlike international certifications, it considers domestic practices and benchmarks that can help us coexist in harmony with the environment and reduce pollution.

The GRIHA rating is based on over 34 different standards and requirements that can be broadly classified into –

• Site selection and planning
• Conservation of resources
• Building operation and maintenance
• Innovation

A BEE-rating Certification
Apart from green housing projects, commercial buildings and spaces in India may obtain a BEE certification. This rating is based on the Energy Performance Index (EPI) by the Bureau of Energy Efficiency, Government of India. This rates the energy efficiency of these buildings. BEE ratings are also offered to home appliances that your green homes may be fitted with.

Why is it important to pick green housing?
Green housing and sustainability are gaining popularity, in great measure, due to their low environmental impact and decarbonisation efforts. As a homeowner, though, you may be keen on understanding the benefits of living in a green home.

Eco-friendly, green buildings help save about 30% of the energy consumption and up to 50% of the water consumption vis-à-vis other buildings. Conservation of resources apart will make a huge difference to your utility bills. Green buildings are designed to receive a lot of natural light and ventilation. The health benefits of these are also considerable. Indoor air quality is better than other buildings, and more importantly, green buildings are made from ergonomic, sustainable, and non-toxic materials.

Green housing on Blox
Blox is a revolutionary online platform that brings you the perfect residential apartment of your dreams to your fingertips. In addition, it brings you a list of projects that fit your bucket list of criteria. So, if living in a green home is what you want for your family, talk to your Blox relationship manager about screening for all the projects with green ratings from IGBC or GRIHA certifications.
 

What Are the Benefits of Sustainable Real Estate Development?

Each day as we tune into the news, we are riddled with news articles about increasing temperatures, climate change, floods and freak storms, pollution levels, and carbon emissions. These are indicators of a fundamental change that the planet is going through, a change which can be catastrophic to our existence and survival. The only way to combat this massive transformation is by remaining steadfast in our commitment to Agenda 21 and going green. The very first step to doing this is by transitioning to sustainable real estate development.

According to recent studies, over a third of the greenhouse gas emissions of the world are attributed to building and construction work. The constructed world is an energy guzzler and consumes nearly 40% of all energy used by the world. Sustainable real estate development is the key to living a clean, green life in harmony with resources that will enable future generations to continue enjoying the beauty and bounty of the planet. With incentives and encouragement from the central and state governments, some of the top developers in India have started adopting sustainable practices. As a result, investment in sustainable, green real estate has started to take off. Let us take a look at some of the top benefits of sustainable real estate development before we understand the growing demand for green housing in the country.

Benefits of sustainable real estate development

• The benefit to the environment – According to Forbes magazine, about 40% of the world's carbon dioxide emissions come from real estate development. Construction work contributes to a third of these emissions, and building operations and maintenance contribute to the rest. Adopting sustainable real estate development involves being environment-conscious and conserving resources at every stage – planning and design, sourcing ergonomic materials, building processes, use of renewable energy in construction, and being innovative in the approach to building maintenance. Not only does this help cut down carbon emissions, but it also helps build renewable energy capabilities that can later be used to power the building. The benefits that sustainable real estate brings to the environment are boundless.
• Benefit to Developers - Government regulations and industry benchmarks are also evolving with increased global awareness about environmental concerns and sustainability. Developers and builders need to recognise this change and adapt. Apart from this, there are some real benefits that sustainable real estate brings developers. Green operational practices reflect the organisation's commitment to the community and help build a niche, a speciality. From earning stakeholder trust to attracting government subsidies, green construction practices bring the developer considerable brand awareness and financial gains.
• Benefit to homeowners – Green housing projects bring a host of benefits to the residents. The materials are non-toxic and make for a better lifestyle. The use of energy conservation systems and natural ventilation offers much lower energy bills and better indoor air quality. Sustainable buildings consume up to 30% less energy and 50% less water than others. In the long run, the savings add up to much more than the slightly increased pricing of these units. Most green buildings are equipped with rainwater harvesting, waste management, and composting systems. The lifestyle benefits and the decreased medical bills are all part of the extensive advantages that residents enjoy. Complementing green homes with an eco-friendly and healthy lifestyle, taking responsibility for the environment, and doing our bit to reduce carbon emissions and ensure sustainability will take us a long way.

Increasing demand for green housing

The demand for green housing in India is on a steady upward curve. With more people realising the benefits of living in eco-friendly projects, sustainable living has gone from being a trend to being one of the top priorities of home buyers in the country, particularly in cities like Mumbai and Delhi. As of 2021, the market for green real estate was valued at USD 21 billion, making India one of the largest in the world.

Being the most populous country in the world, it is not easy for us to achieve our sustainability targets, but a firm commitment on the part of the administration, the real estate sector and its key players and homebuyers will keep India on track.

Just what India needs

Green, sustainable housing is just what India needs. Some of the major metropolitan areas of our country are ranked among the most polluted cities worldwide. Only by reclaiming the focus on greenery, ecological living, and sustainability can we balance a burgeoning population with adequate resources for all. While there is a lot of debate about the future of sustainable living, it is time to acknowledge that our survival depends on green practices. The evolution of technology and innovation can be the tools we use in this endeavour. Green, sustainable real estate is just what India needs. 
 

What Are the Benefits of Sustainable Real Estate Development?

Each day as we tune into the news, we are riddled with news articles about increasing temperatures, climate change, floods and freak storms, pollution levels, and carbon emissions. These are indicators of a fundamental change that the planet is going through, a change which can be catastrophic to our existence and survival. The only way to combat this massive transformation is by remaining steadfast in our commitment to Agenda 21 and going green. The very first step to doing this is by transitioning to sustainable real estate development.

According to recent studies, over a third of the greenhouse gas emissions of the world are attributed to building and construction work. The constructed world is an energy guzzler and consumes nearly 40% of all energy used by the world. Sustainable real estate development is the key to living a clean, green life in harmony with resources that will enable future generations to continue enjoying the beauty and bounty of the planet. With incentives and encouragement from the central and state governments, some of the top developers in India have started adopting sustainable practices. As a result, investment in sustainable, green real estate has started to take off. Let us take a look at some of the top benefits of sustainable real estate development before we understand the growing demand for green housing in the country.

Benefits of sustainable real estate development

• The benefit to the environment – According to Forbes magazine, about 40% of the world's carbon dioxide emissions come from real estate development. Construction work contributes to a third of these emissions, and building operations and maintenance contribute to the rest. Adopting sustainable real estate development involves being environment-conscious and conserving resources at every stage – planning and design, sourcing ergonomic materials, building processes, use of renewable energy in construction, and being innovative in the approach to building maintenance. Not only does this help cut down carbon emissions, but it also helps build renewable energy capabilities that can later be used to power the building. The benefits that sustainable real estate brings to the environment are boundless.
• Benefit to Developers - Government regulations and industry benchmarks are also evolving with increased global awareness about environmental concerns and sustainability. Developers and builders need to recognise this change and adapt. Apart from this, there are some real benefits that sustainable real estate brings developers. Green operational practices reflect the organisation's commitment to the community and help build a niche, a speciality. From earning stakeholder trust to attracting government subsidies, green construction practices bring the developer considerable brand awareness and financial gains.
• Benefit to homeowners – Green housing projects bring a host of benefits to the residents. The materials are non-toxic and make for a better lifestyle. The use of energy conservation systems and natural ventilation offers much lower energy bills and better indoor air quality. Sustainable buildings consume up to 30% less energy and 50% less water than others. In the long run, the savings add up to much more than the slightly increased pricing of these units. Most green buildings are equipped with rainwater harvesting, waste management, and composting systems. The lifestyle benefits and the decreased medical bills are all part of the extensive advantages that residents enjoy. Complementing green homes with an eco-friendly and healthy lifestyle, taking responsibility for the environment, and doing our bit to reduce carbon emissions and ensure sustainability will take us a long way.

Increasing demand for green housing

The demand for green housing in India is on a steady upward curve. With more people realising the benefits of living in eco-friendly projects, sustainable living has gone from being a trend to being one of the top priorities of home buyers in the country, particularly in cities like Mumbai and Delhi. As of 2021, the market for green real estate was valued at USD 21 billion, making India one of the largest in the world.

Being the most populous country in the world, it is not easy for us to achieve our sustainability targets, but a firm commitment on the part of the administration, the real estate sector and its key players and homebuyers will keep India on track.

Just what India needs

Green, sustainable housing is just what India needs. Some of the major metropolitan areas of our country are ranked among the most polluted cities worldwide. Only by reclaiming the focus on greenery, ecological living, and sustainability can we balance a burgeoning population with adequate resources for all. While there is a lot of debate about the future of sustainable living, it is time to acknowledge that our survival depends on green practices. The evolution of technology and innovation can be the tools we use in this endeavour. Green, sustainable real estate is just what India needs. 
 

How has Blox Managed to Become a Leading Expert in the Proptech Industry?

Proptech or property technology refers to the tools and digitalization being integrated into the real estate sector. Proptech is the concept where specific digital tools are used to drive buying, selling, researching and managing decisions within the real estate industry. 

Some of the leading proptech solutions include technologies such as AI, big data, VR, machine learning, IoT, blockchain, 5G and AR. Today, these tech solutions enable many real estate processes, including planning & designing, development & construction, buying & selling and managing & operations. 

Seeing the opportunity and the untapped market, Blox, India’s first consumer-centric prop-tech platform, brought a revolution to enhance decision-making for home buyers. At first, Blox might seem like a search & discovery platform, but it is much more than that! 

Real estate is a very deep-rooted industry, and plucking it out to plant it again with embedded tech solutions was very challenging. In this post, let’s discuss how Blox has surpassed the obstacles and leveraged technology to be the market-leading expert in the prop tech industry. 

Blox Changed the Idea of Search & Discovery in the Real Estate Arena!
In Realty + Proptech discussion at IMEX Conclave & Excellence Awards 2023, the Founder and CEO of Blox, Aditya Jhaveri, said there are many search & discovery platforms in the real estate arena. But they fail to scale because they are underutilizing their potential! 
He says the prime sources of earning revenue for those usual search & discovery platforms are through selling ads or leads. Due to the restrictive idea, they are primarily unable to click big transactions, depriving them of earning big revenue. 

Unlike the usual search & discovery platforms, Blox entered the real estate industry with a changed idea. Aditya says he didn’t want Blox to be a usual search-only platform. He wanted to introduce a single connection point for all involved parties within a real estate transaction. 

Hence, Blox offers multi-stakeholder usability based on a single transaction. It means that when a home buyer shows interest in a property or books a site visit, the broker, developer, and the other involved parties will get the notification. 

To help you better understand this, you can take the example of online food delivery services. When placing an order from a particular restaurant, the notification is shared with the restaurant and the delivery driver. Hence, it is one transaction for all!

You don’t have to see and choose the food item from an application, then obtain the restaurant's contact number and make a phone call to book the order. You do it all through the unified single-transaction-based platform. 

Hence, Blox has brought the same initiative to the real estate sector. It is a new, innovative and upscaling proptech idea. Thus, Blox doesn’t just have a first-mover advantage but has a long-run profitability scope in this sector. Thus, the company is leading the market! 

Blox Strives to Create Massive Ecosystem with Unparalleled Consumer Focus
In pursuit of becoming the market leader, Blox intends to build a strong ecosystem within the real estate sector. By offering proptech solutions with the utmost consumer focus, all developers associated with Blox are automatically part of digitization.

Blox is creating a two-sided marketplace to try and fix the supply. It means Blox is promoting its platform to bring in buyers and sellers/brokers/developers to exchange the property as a product/service. 

With more than 1200-1300 projects from over 800 developers listed over the platform, Blox is leading the proptech industry in India. To stimulate and maintain growth, Blox is currently targeting only tier-1 cities, especially Mumbai. 

There’s still time for this proptech leader of India to access the real estate opportunities of tier 2 and tier 3 cities. 

The Turn Around Point for Blox to Become a Market Leader in Proptech Industry
When no one in India was sure about the success of proptech solutions, Blox came up with this innovative idea to hit the untapped market. While Blox continued to scale its business purpose through positive conversions, it acquired Plinthstone REMA for around $1.5 million. 

Blox was doing around 15 to 20 transactions in a month before it acquired Plinthstone in April 2022. But, Aditya believes that this decision has helped the company boom and set an example that the proptech industry can grow and sustain itself in India. 

From 15 to 20 monthly transactions in 2022, Blox is now recording approximately 400 to 500 monthly transactions as of March 2023. And this growth is reported within just 12 months of acquiring Plinthstone.

It happened because Plinthstone gave its best manpower and specialist sales managers to help Blox lead the industry. In operational terms, Blox has recorded a scalability of 25x in just 12 months. 

Furthermore, Blox also raised a whopping $12 million in a Series A funding round in December 2022. The funding was raised from one of the current investors, Silicon Valley, and a new angel investor, Kunal Shah, Founder of CRED. 

Blox stated they would use this fund to further enhance the technologies used over their platform and improve the product development frameworks. Apart from that, Blox will also be using this fund to expand its business exposure and penetration. 

Hence, they are and will continue to be the leading experts in the proptech industry, and there’s no doubt about it!

Parting Words

Hence, this is a brief insight into how Blox has taken over the proptech industry and is leveraging its potential to regulate real estate transactions. The track record for the proptech startup has been exceptional, and the future is quite streamlined as well. 
Blox intends to build the best customer experience in the world by blending real estate with the concept of eCommerce transactions. And this is how their proptech solutions will continue stepping up the ladder! 

Different Types of Green Building Certifications in India

In your research as a prospective home buyer, you will likely come across the term "green home". However, while it is a widely discussed concept, many of us do not understand the certifications that green homes require or what they mean. So let's take a look.

Demand for green buildings in India 
Before we look at the various green building certifications accepted as standards in India, let us understand why real estate developers may opt for or apply for these. A rise in consumer consciousness and growing awareness about the conservation of natural resources has greatly boosted the demand for green housing. According to a recent report, the demand for sustainable and green housing in India was pegged between USD 35 and 50 billion. Real estate developers, particularly in major metro cities like Delhi and Mumbai, are keen to adopt sustainable construction practices which come with government subsidies and leverage this growing demand for an eco-friendly lifestyle.

Understanding green building certification
Green building certification refers to the rating provided by leading bodies that study the building or the real estate project and its performance from an ecological standpoint. The building is evaluated on a number of parameters including the site selection, design, energy efficiency, construction process, materials used, carbon footprint, water and waste management systems, and innovation. Different green building certification agencies or bodies use different parameters to offer these ratings. Let us look at India's two widely recognised green building certifications.

Indian Green Building Council (IGBC)
The Indian Green Building Council (IGBC) was established in 2001 by the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII). The IGBC offers certifications in 27 different categories, but the ones your residential project may hold could be one of the following -

• IGBC New Buildings - Tenant-occupied buildings
• IGBC New Buildings - Owner-occupied buildings
• IGBC Green Homes
• IGBC Green Townships
• IGBC Green Residential Societies
• IGBC Green Affordable Housing

The certification offered is based on an extensive matrix of parameters licensed from the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design certification developed by the United States Green Building Council. The buildings are reviewed on several parameters, including sustainable architecture, site selection, water and energy conservation, ergonomic material etc. The buildings are then rated – Certified, Silver, Gold, Platinum, and Super Platinum.

GRIHA Certification
The GRIHA (Green Rating for Integrated Habitat Assessment) Certification is India's indigenously developed green housing certification system. It evaluates the building's performance and environmental impact over its lifecycle, that is, in the pre-construction stage, building planning and construction stage, and building operation and maintenance stage. The accreditation system aims to quantify aspects of real estate planning, development, and maintenance, such as the use of renewable energy, water and waste management, carbon emissions etc. There are a total of 34 criteria covered by the GRIHA V 3 rating system, and buildings are provided between 1 to 5 stars depending on their performance. After having been adopted by the government of India, this rating system, developed by TERI, is not becoming increasingly popular in the country.

Advantages of owning a green home
Green buildings are the future. They offer sustainable processes and alternatives that are compatible with environmental conservation. As a homeowner, some of the top benefits of owning a certified green home include the following -

• Energy saving - Green homes consume up to 30% less energy than other buildings. They optimise the use of natural light and natural insulation to reduce the use of artificial lighting, heating, and cooling systems. In the long run, this translates into major savings on your energy bill.
• Water saving - Certified green buildings come with rainwater harvesting systems and water recycling units. You can expect up to a 50% reduction on your water bill when you live in a green project.
• Air quality - Green housing projects are designed to use natural ventilation. They also showcase large green spaces, vertical gardens, and personal garden spaces. With this, indoor air quality shows a marked improvement. As the owner of a green housing apartment or flat, your need for an air purifier is significantly reduced.
• Healthier lifestyle – Homeowners are now placing a great deal of emphasis on the quality of life their homes or apartments offer. Green homes offer a healthier, cleaner alternative to the use of toxic materials and waste management systems.

Your home-buying experience is likely a very emotional one. This apartment or flat will be the home you build for your family. Opting for a green housing project is a wise choice and can help save on utility and medical bills in the long run. If the apartment you are considering investing in is under construction, you may want to check if the developer has a provisional green building certification and find out how the certification agency will likely rate the project.

4 Ways Proptech Can Enhance the Customer Journey

Proptech is the bridge that's connecting real estate with the thriving digital technologies of this decade. It will change the way people buy, sell or rent properties. 
—Aman Kapoor, Head of Marketing

Implementing proptech or property technology solutions marks a significant change in how brands engage with their customers. Buying a property is a substantial investment for most Indians, likely the most significant purchase they will ever make. As a result, the process can be lengthy and time-consuming. Therefore, there is a need for a more efficient and effective way to complete this transaction.

Hence, it means that the developers or the brand owners must be available at all stages throughout the customer journey of buying a home. Home buying seems like a challenging period for customers, for which the brands must always be available with the right set of advice to build better customer relationships. 

So, to ease the home buying journey for the customers and to give them a great experience, proptech was introduced. It is responsible for automating most of the redundant processes with digital tools. As a result, this ensures that a brand is always connected to its customers. 
In this article, you will get an insight into some of the specific ways proptech is responsible for enhancing the overall customer journey toward buying a property. 

1. Managing and Improving the Customer Engagement Aspects
Before proptech was in play, the usual method of communication for real estate firms to consumers was through face-to-face or phone interaction, word of mouth or physical exploration of the property. All of these approaches worked, but they usually consume a lot of energy and time on both ends. 

In short, the real estate firms didn't have the flexibility to engage in health communication with most customers strategically. But, with the implementation of proptech in the industry, real estate firms now have the liberty to offer end-to-end support to potential customers in their home-buying journey. 

Proptech solutions involve online engagement, AI and several communication tools to collect and analyse customer insights. As a result, the firm owners will have enough information about catering their suggestions and services to meet the customers' expectations. 

2. Remote Exploration of the Property and its Neighbourhood
It is quite important for customers or home buyers to visit the site and check out the neighbourhood to determine if it is the right place to invest and live. Earlier, people had the only option to visit the site physically and check out the apartment and neighbourhood before deciding. 

While it remains a matter of personal preference, technology has revolutionised property buying and made decision-making easier for customers. Thanks to advancements in virtual reality (VR), artificial intelligence (AI), and 3D printing technology, proptech platforms can now offer customers the opportunity to take virtual site visits. This development has significantly enhanced the property-buying experience and provided buyers with a more immersive and interactive way to explore potential properties.

It means home buyers can now sit in the comfort of their homes and explore the actual nooks and corners of the property. They don't have to leave their home and visit the site for physical exploration. This feature is especially advantageous for individuals who reside in a different city or state but are interested in purchasing property in another location. With the help of proptech solutions, buyers can now take virtual tours of properties without the need for physical travel. Not just that, but with drone shots, the consumers can also remotely get the surrounding bird's eye view of the property and the neighbourhood. 

Hence, this is another evident way proptech is helping real estate firms evolve the customer experience. 

3. Closing the Property Deals Digitally
Gone are the days when the pre-closing process for a property deal was lengthy, with a lot of paperwork. Believe it or not, the lengthy paperwork and real estate transactions were frustrating and intimidating for the customers, developers, brokers and everyone involved. 
Proptech solutions can be integrated to develop digital closing software, where the customers can securely and transparently execute the closing process. All the documentation will be handled and verified digitally to ensure the ownership validation is successful. 

4. Blockchain Eradicates the Involvement of Brokers
Implementing blockchain in proptech platforms allows only the buyers and sellers to interact with one another. Hence, this will help them create smart contracts and authenticate them without the involvement of any brokers. 

One of the most common blockchain applications is implemented onto the proptech listing platforms. When the list of properties is stored within a blockchain network, it becomes an encrypted, decentralised and single database. Thus, it is difficult for any outside party to access the data. 

Hence, it becomes impossible for third-party listing applications or other websites to inflate prices or provide inaccurate information. Hence, viewing and purchasing a property will be easy through secure transactions. 

Hence, modern-day home buyers who are quite impatient to deal with lengthy property buying processes will find it easy with proptech integrations. Smart contracts make it convenient for customers to save time on the validation and processing of documents. Month-long processes can now be completed within days or weeks. Hence, the customer journey is improved! 

Conclusion
Today, there are ample domains within the real estate industry that are leveraging the potential of proptech. It is making lives easier for home buyers as well as property developers. Streamlining property transactions and providing customers with reliable content has made proptech a success. 

One such proptech platform is Blox! It is a property search engine that enables a single transaction platform for you to find, interact and finalise your property deals in a few clicks. The platform has modern technologies that allow you to view the property virtually for better decision-making. 

But, if you are willing to stick to the traditional means, Blox still offers you an option to book a physical site visit. Thus, Blox intends to ease your overall home-buying experience and is one of the best proptech platforms for you to use. 
 

New in Mumbai: Here are 5 Celebrity Homes That Will Sweep You Off Your Feet

There are plenty of reasons why Mumbai, the city of dreams, is considered the most glamorous and stylish city in India. One of them is that it is a hotspot for celebrities residing in the most lavish of homes. 

Many famous personalities have chosen to live in this vibrant and cosmopolitan city, from Bollywood stars to sports icons. And their homes reflect their taste, personality and lifestyle. In doing so, their residences have become as famous as them, with many of them celebrated as city landmarks. From mansions to sprawling sea-view apartments, celebrity homes in Mumbai are always a reference point for thousands regarding home architecture, interior design, décor, and more. 

If you want to know how these celebrities live, you are in luck! We have all heard of celebrity homes like Mannat, Jalsa, and Antilia. So, in this blog, we will take a look at other happening celebrity homes in Mumbai that deserve mention. They are no less when it comes to sweeping you off your feet with their stunning design, decor and views. 

Read and get inspired!

1. Virat Kohli and Anushka Sharma's Sea-Facing Abode
Virat Kohli and Anushka Sharma, the power couple of cricket and cinema, live in a lavish Rs 34 crore apartment in Worli, Mumbai. The 7,171-square-foot flat offers breathtaking views of the Arabian Sea and the city skyline through its floor-to-ceiling windows. The interiors are designed by The Orange Lane, a Mumbai-based design studio, and feature modern and rustic elements. The home has four bedrooms, a living room, a dining area, a kitchen, a den and a balcony. The couple often share glimpses of their home on social media, where they enjoy spending quality time with their daughter Vamika and their pet dog Dude.

2. John Abraham's Villa in the Sky
John Abraham's penthouse in Bandra West is aptly named 'Villa in the Sky', as it offers panoramic views of the ocean and the city from its 4,000-square-foot terrace. The actor converted two apartments into one spacious duplex with the help of his brother Alan Abraham, who is an architect. The home is minimalistic and eco-friendly, with local wood and green construction practices used wherever possible. The home has four bedrooms, a living room, a dining area, a kitchen, a media room and an outdoor pool. The home also has a lot of natural light and ventilation, creating a serene and airy ambience.

3. Lisa Ray's Whimsical Sanctuary
Lisa Ray found her dream home in Bandra when she came across a huge outdoor area that reminded her of her childhood in Kolkata. She hired Siddharth Dhanvant Shanghvi, a reputed interior architect, to design her home with a Wabi Sabi style that embraces imperfection and simplicity. Customised furniture, paired with dainty decorative pieces handpicked from Jaipur and Goa, provides the home a very unique aesthetic. There is also artwork by Indian artists and planters that add a touch of greenery. The home has two bedrooms, a living room, a dining area, a kitchen and a balcony that overlooks a garden. The home has a calming and relaxed vibe that suits Lisa's personality.

4. Sidharth Malhotra's Residence
The recently-married Sidharth Malhotra's home in Bandra was once a modish bachelor pad that reflected his personality and preferences. The actor roped in Gauri Khan to design his home with a touch of masculinity here and there. One can find other highlights, such as stunning furniture, lavish fixtures, and quirky accessories. The home has three bedrooms, a living room, a dining area, a kitchen, and a quintessential entertainment room. Of course, it also offers a balcony with majestic sea and mountain sights. The home also has a lot of memorabilia from Sidharth's movies and travels, as well as artworks by Indian artists.

5. Hrithik Roshan's Nautical-Themed Abode
Hrithik Roshan's Juhu apartment is a nautical-themed wonderland that transports you to a different world. The actor collaborated with Ashiesh Shah to design his home with blue and white hues, wooden accents, vintage furniture and marine-inspired decor. The home has four bedrooms, a living room, a dining area, a kitchen, an office space and two balconies that offer stunning views of the sunset over the sea. The home also has a lot of personal touches from Hrithik's life, such as his awards, books, guitars and photographs.

Conclusion
These stunning celebrity homes continue to grow the legendary legacy of iconic residences in Mumbai – a city that already boasts landmarks such as Shah Rukh Khan’s six-storey mansion ‘Mannat’, Amitabh Bachchan’s luxurious Juhu bungalow ‘Jalsa’, and Mukesh Ambani’s Antilia – the 27-storey skyscraper that is the world’s most expensive private residence. 

These abodes are a true testament to the glamour and luxury of the city. Moreover, they continue to set trends in the residential real estate industry, thanks to their use of innovative design, style, and architecture in a perfect blend with modern amenities. So, the next time you're in Mumbai, don't forget to take a tour of these breathtaking celebrity homes.
 

Things to Keep in Mind While Buying a Flat in Andheri West

Andheri West is a bustling suburb of Mumbai known for its vibrant culture, scenic beach and delicious seafood. It is also one of the most popular and sought-after prime locations for real estate investments, with numerous residential complexes offering luxurious amenities and stunning city views. Home-buying can be an exciting and rewarding experience, but it is only natural to overwhelm you, especially if you are a first-time buyer. With many options available, choosing the right flat that suits your needs and budget can be challenging. However, fear not!

If you plan to buy a flat in Andheri West, here are a few things you should remember.

Location
Location is crucial to consider when buying a flat in Andheri West. This suburb has several prime areas offering excellent connectivity, essential amenities, and a comfortable lifestyle. Some popular areas in Andheri West include Lokhandwala Complex, Four Bungalows, Versova, and Yari Road. Overall the suburb is well connected to major commercial hubs such as Bandra-Kurla Complex and is in close proximity to the Western Express Highway, providing easy access to the Mumbai International Airport. However, some areas may be closer to the local and metro station while some may not be walking distance – depending on the kind of mode you use to travel, you could choose the location. 

Budget

Your budget is the next vital factor when buying a flat in Andheri West. Andheri West is a premium location, and the property prices here can be steep. Premium building options include Rustomjee Elements, and Bayview, along with more affordable residential societies. You must have a clear idea of how much money you can afford to shell out on your new home and then look to buy a flat in Andheri West. Getting a pre-approved home loan before you start your search is advisable, as this will give you a better idea of your budget and help you avoid any disappointments later.

Home Loan

If you are planning to take a home loan to finance your purchase, you should research the different home loan options available and choose one that suits your needs and budget. You should compare the interest rates, processing fees, and other charges of different lenders before you finalise a home loan.

Additional costs

Apart from the cost of the flat, there are various additional costs that you should be aware of while buying a flat in Andheri West. These may include stamp duty, registration charges, society transfer charges, and other miscellaneous charges. You should factor in these costs while calculating the total cost of ownership of the flat.
Size and Layout

The size and layout of the flat are other key factors to consider when buying a flat in Andheri West. The flat size should be based on the number of family members and their individual requirements. A small family may prefer a compact 1 BHK or 2 BHK, while a larger family may require a 3 BHK or 4 BHK. You should also pay attention to the layout of the flat and ensure that it is functional and suits your lifestyle.

Amenities

Amenities are an essential aspect of modern living, and Andheri West offers plenty of options. Some standard amenities you can expect in a residential complex in Andheri West include a gymnasium, swimming pool, clubhouse, children's play area, landscaped gardens, and 24/7 security. You should choose a residential complex that offers essential amenities to you and your family. Alternatively, you can check out the Andheri sports complex and other clubs that provide such amenities and stay within close proximity to those.

Builder Reputation

The builder's reputation is a crucial factor to consider when buying a flat in Andheri West. You should research the builder's background, track record, and reputation in the market. You can also check the builder's previous projects and talk to the existing residents to get an idea of their experience with the builder. Some of the reputed builders in Andheri West include Oberoi Realty, Rustomjee, Raheja Universal, and Kanakia.

Legal Compliance

It is essential to ensure that the flat you are buying is legally compliant and has all the necessary clearances and approvals from the local authorities. You should check the builder's documents, including the commencement certificate, occupancy certificate, and building plan approvals, to ensure that they are in order. You should also ensure that the flat has a clear and marketable title and there are no pending litigations or disputes related to the property.

Maintenance Charges

Maintenance charges are an ongoing expense that you must bear as a flat owner in Andheri West. These charges are payable to the society or the builder and cover expenses such as maintenance of common areas, security, and other facilities. You should check the residential complex's maintenance charges before buying a flat and ensure they are reasonable and within your budget. The maintenance charges in Andheri West can vary depending on the amenities and facilities offered by the residential complex.

Resale Value

It is also essential to consider the property's resale value. Andheri West is a premium location, and properties here tend to hold their value well. However, the resale value of a flat can vary depending on several factors, such as location, amenities, and builder reputation. Choosing a flat in a prime location with good connectivity, proximity to essential amenities, and a reputable builder is advisable, as it is likely to have a higher resale value than one in a less desirable location or with a less reputable builder.

Documentation

Lastly, you should ensure that all the necessary documents related to the flat are in order and duly executed. These may include the sale agreement, the conveyance deed, the share certificate, and the possession letter, among others. You should also ensure you get all the original documents from the builder or the seller and keep them safe.

Conclusion

Buying a flat in Andheri West can be a rewarding experience if you keep the factors mentioned above in mind. It is essential to do your research, compare different options, and choose a flat that suits your lifestyle, budget, and preferences. With the right guidance and approach, you can find your dream home in this vibrant suburb of Mumbai. And if you are looking for a convenient and secure way to buy a flat in Andheri West, you can consider using our platform - Blox.xyz.

We ensure the entire home buying platform makes buying a flat in Andheri West hassle-free and efficient. With Blox.xyz, you can browse through a wide range of flats, filter them based on your preferences, and make payments securely. Our user-friendly interface and advanced security features make us a reliable choice for anyone looking to buy a flat in Andheri West, making your home-buying experience seamless and stress-free.
 

What is a Domicile Certificate and its Importance?

Are you planning to apply for a government job, scholarship, or admission in another state? If yes, then you must have heard of requiring to produce a domicile certificate to prove your eligibility and identity. 

A Domicile Certificate provides proof of permanent residence of an individual based in a Union Territory or a state in India. It is mandatory for every Indian citizen, regardless of caste, community, or gender, to have this certificate. As a legal document with lifetime validity, it is issued by government bodies of the respective UT or state.
Some states also call Domicile Certificate a State Residence Certificate/Proof.

As you can imagine, a domicile certificate is not only critical identity proof but can also help you avail of various benefits and schemes offered by the state government, such as reservations in educational institutions, employment opportunities, subsidies, etc. Let us dig a bit deeper into the topic.

Why is a Domicile Certificate needed? 
The word ‘domicile’ literally means the place or area of one’s residence. The importance of a Domicile Certificate cannot be understated. Many may question that when we have a document like Aadhar Card, why is a Domicile Certificate even needed in the first place? Well, it is beneficial for smoothly carrying out this set of activities.  

• Purchase of property such as a house or land
• Registration of a new vehicle
• Proof of residency when applying for a loan
• Application of other documents such as PAN Card, Voter Card
• Application for scholarships from State Government
• Admission into higher educational institutions
• Particularly useful for medical practitioners as they need it as proof of residence to register their business
• Basic citizenship rights in the area one lives

Is a Domicile Certificate issued free of cost?

While in some UTs/ States, Domicile Certificate is issued to their citizens free of cost, it is chargeable in some states. If charged, the fee is nominal and ranges from as low as 5 rupees to 60 rupees. In fact, in the Union Territory of Andaman and Nicobar Islands, the application fee is 2 rupees. Some UTs and states with no domicile application fees are 

• Arunachal Pradesh
• Assam
• Bihar
• Dadra and Nagar Haveli
• Goa
• Himachal Pradesh
• Jharkhand
• Lakshadweep
• Ladakh
• Madhya Pradesh
• Maharashtra
• Manipur
• Meghalaya
• Nagaland
• Odisha
• Punjab
• Puducherry
• Sikkim
• Uttar Pradesh
• West Bengal

How to apply for a Domicile Certificate?

The criteria for application may differ in some UTs/ states depending on the document concerning norms of that place’s concerned body. One can apply for a Domicile Certificate both online and offline.

Online Application for Domicile Certificate
Here is how the online application for domicile can be carried out.

• Visit the official website of the UT/ state of your residence.
• Log in to your account or fill up the details to register for a new one if you are not a registered member already.
• Open the ‘Services’ option from the tab and choose ‘Domicile Certificate’; you will be redirected to the page. Alternatively, some websites may also give the Apply for Certificates Online option.
• Fields for application will now be visible. Fill in all the necessary fields and click submit after carefully rechecking all the details. Depending on the norms of the UT/ state you reside in, you may have to pay some application fee.
• Once done, you will receive a mail/ text message mentioning your successful application. At this time, an acknowledgement number will also be generated. This acknowledgement number must be noted since this will help in downloading the certificate later.
• Revisit the official website and log in to your account to check the status of your application.

Offline Application for a Domicile Certificate

The offline application involves a pen-paper-based procedure. Some scanned documents and a duly filled application form must also be submitted. The application form for the same can be collected from Government offices.

• Revenue Office
• District Magistrate Office
• Tahsildar Office
• Collector or Deputy Collector Office
• SDM Office

Documents required for a Domicile Certificate Application

• Identification
• Aadhaar Card
• PAN Card
• Passport
• Driving License
• Voter Card
• Any government-approved identification document

Proof of Residence

• Electricity Bills, Telephone Bills, Gas Bills
• Bank Passbook
• Rent Agreements or similar documents
• A true copy of the Ration Card

Additional Documents/ Requirements

• Passport Size Photographs
• Birth Certificate
• Affidavit from the Court
• Date of Birth Certificate
• Declaration made by two other persons known to the applicant (not needed in all UTs, States)

What are the eligibility criteria for a Domicile Certificate?

Regardless of age, one may apply for a Domicile Certificate provided they fulfil the below-mentioned criteria.

• The applicant’s parents have to be permanent residents of the state too.
• The applicant must reside in the area for at least three years in the state (the tenure may differ from state to state).
• Applicants must have a property/ land/ house registered in their name in the state they are applying for a domicile certificate.
• Females are issued domicile certificates if their partner is a permanent resident of the state they are applying for a domicile of.

One must, however, note that some rules/ regulations are bound to change from state to state.

Common FAQs
1. Can one person have a Domicile in two states?
This question arises so much more than often, particularly for married individuals who relocate to a different state permanently post-marriage. The answer is an emphatic no. As per the Department of Personnel and Training, Govt. of India, an individual can have only one domicile.

2. Can my Domicile and permanent address be different?
Yes, an individual can have a domicile of a state different from their permanent address. The former indicates the state one is a permanent resident, owns the land, and was born in. On the other hand, the latter will be the address to which one may have permanently relocated owing to the nature of their work or personal reasons.

Final Words
By now, you must have understood that having a legitimate domicile certificate is imperative for every Indian citizen. Acting as a proof of citizenship, it is linked to the smooth execution of variegated activities ranging from medical practitioners registering their business to a loan application. A domicile certificate is a very important document that can make your life easier and more convenient.