SOCIAL Unveils India’s First Co-Working Space
Hyderabad, January 2025: SOCIAL, India’s favourite neighborhood café announces the expansion of its co-working model – SOCIAL Works to 50+ locations in 10 cities. Introduced 10 years ago as the country’s first co-working space, SOCIAL Works was designed to cater to freelancers and professionals seeking an alternative to traditional offices. Now, with SOCIAL Works, SOCIAL is extending its reach to new neighborhoods and pincodes, offering dynamic workspaces where professionals can collaborate, create, and thrive in cities like Mumbai, Delhi NCR, Bangalore, Pune, Hyderabad, Indore, Lucknow, Chandigarh, Dehradun, and Kolkata.
Available from Monday to Friday, 9 AM to 6 PM, the SOCIAL Works seamlessly blends functionality with SOCIAL’s signature vibe. Designed to resonate with Millennials and Gen-Z, it creates an environment that fosters productivity, creativity, and community.
A Vision for Modern Workspaces
Over the years, SOCIAL Works has become a thriving hub where connections are forged, ideas take shape, and success stories continue to unfold. From freelancers to budding entrepreneurs, the space has nurtured ventures of all scales—from small startups to prominent companies like BOAT, IVM Podcasts, Food Talk India, Lazy 8, and many more which began their journey here. SOCIAL Works has also been a creative haven for artists and freelancers, offering them a platform to connect, collaborate, and grow. It has witnessed connections and partnerships flourish in the most unexpected ways in the Works section, making it more than just a workspace—it’s a place where ideas come to life, and creativity thrives. Today, it remains the go-to spot for professionals seeking a dynamic and inspiring environment, fostering meaningful partnerships and providing the perfect blend of productivity and creativity.
As the workday winds down, SOCIAL Works seamlessly transitions into a buzzing social hub. Whether you’re wrapping up a brainstorming session or unwinding with colleagues, the space adapts to your needs. It allows you to work comfortably in an environment that feels authentic to you, while also offering opportunities to meet new people and collaborate.
A Space That Adapts To You
- Flexible pricing options: INR 300 per day, INR 1200 per week, and INR 4500 per month—fully redeemable on SOCIAL’s delectable food and drinks. The cover can also be clubbed with other ongoing offers at the outlet, ensuring every workday comes with a side of culinary delight.
- Workspace pass includes free Wi-Fi, a confirmed seat in the workspace area, and access to SOCIAL’s vibrant atmosphere.
- Monthly members enjoy exclusive access to up to 4 SOCIAL events, such as workshops, conferences, networking meetups, live music, and DJ nights.
- Earn loyalty points through The SOCIAL Club, unlocking exciting offers, topical events, and freebies.
- Discover exciting new food and beverage offerings, featuring special limited-time menus, unforgettable experiences such as meeting your favorite artist, winning exclusive branded merchandise, or indulging in drinks at unbeatable prices!
Divya Aggarwal, Chief Growth Officer of Impresario Entertainment & Hospitality Pvt Ltd, shared her vision for the SOCIAL Works. “When we launched SOCIAL Works, our goal was to create a workspace that broke away from the rigidity of traditional offices. Over the years, it’s been incredible to see how this concept has supported startups, freelancers, and professionals in building their dreams. We’re creating spaces that are not only functional but also inspiring, blending work and leisure seamlessly as per different requirements. It’s about evolving with the needs of today’s workforce and continuing to offer a place where ideas can thrive, and connections can flourish.
Keeping in mind the future of co-working, SOCIAL Works is designed to cater to diverse work styles, whether you’re working solo, brainstorming with a team, or catching up with colleagues. The experience is a testament to SOCIAL’s commitment to staying ahead of the curve, blending work and play in a way that’s uniquely their own.
The Nuclear Family – Housing India’s Millennials
By Akash Pharande, Managing Director – Pharande Spaces
Young, dual-income nuclear families and single professionals just beginning their careers are the driving forces of urban India today. In 2022, nearly half of Indian households consisted of 1 to 4 members, marking a significant rise in nuclear families from just 37% in 2008. By 2024, it is likely that this proportion has surpassed the 50% threshold, with smaller family units dominating the demographic landscape.
The transition from joint families to nuclear ones signals a profound cultural shift. While joint families once offered financial predictability, elderly care, and shared responsibilities, modern nuclear families prioritize independence, personal growth, and global aspirations. This shift is reshaping India’s urban housing market.
The Evolution of the Indian Nuclear Family
What drives the rise of nuclear families?
Financial Independence: Youth today seek autonomy over their finances, aligning with modern lifestyles.
Freedom of Choice: Young couples prefer making life decisions without traditionalist interference, particularly when family elders control resources. While these families remain respectful of elder care, their close bonds with previous generations have loosened. They aim for growth without constraints, focusing on career advancement, family investment, and quality of life.
Modern Parenting: Parents wish to raise their children with contemporary values, often focusing on creating global citizens.
The Millennial Dream Home
For the millennial nuclear family, the definition of an ideal home has evolved. Here’s what they prioritize:
Space for Growth – Homes need to accommodate expanding families. A survey by Anarock found that 51% of homebuyers preferred 3BHK units over smaller 2BHKs, despite rising property prices.
Sustainability – with 84% of Indians aware of global warming (Yale Program on Climate Change Communication, 2022), eco-friendly homes are now in demand. Features like energy-efficient designs and green certifications are becoming essential.
Safety and Security – Rising urban crime rates drive families toward gated communities and integrated townships with robust security measures.
Technological Integration – Smart homes are gaining traction, with the Indian smart home market expected to reach $6.5 billion by 2024. However, it’s not just about gadgets—it’s about creating smarter living environments.
Smarter Housing for Smarter Families
For today’s nuclear families, housing is not just about a home; it’s about the lifestyle it supports. This has led to increased demand for integrated townships—self-sustaining communities offering residential, retail, healthcare, and entertainment facilities within a single complex.
Why Integrated Townships?
Lifestyle Solutions: These townships offer “walk-to-work” convenience, on-site amenities, and pollution-free environments, reducing reliance on crowded urban hubs.
Complete Ecosystems: They blend residential and commercial spaces, catering to the all-in-one lifestyle nuclear families seek.
Enhanced Connectivity: With expanding metro networks, suburban areas housing these townships are now more accessible and affordable.
Challenges in Meeting Demand
Despite their appeal, integrated townships remain niche offerings due to the following challenges:
Land Availability: Securing large, cohesive parcels of land is a daunting task for most developers.
Expertise: Designing a township requires proficiency in integrating diverse real estate segments like hospitals, malls, and housing.
Capital Intensive: Building such ecosystems demands substantial investment throughout the development lifecycle.
As nuclear families reshape India’s urban housing market, the demand for sustainable, secure, and smart homes continues to rise. Integrated townships represent the future of housing, offering holistic solutions tailored to the aspirations of modern families. However, with limited supply and high barriers to entry, the race to meet this demand will define the next phase of India’s real estate evolution.
About the Author:
Akash Pharande is Managing Director – Pharande Spaces, a leading real estate construction and development firm famous for its township projects in Greater Pune and beyond. Pharande Promoters & Builders, the flagship company of Pharande Spaces and an ISO 9001-2000 certified company, is a pioneer of townships in the region. With the recent inclusion of Puneville Commercial into one of its most iconic townships, Pharande Spaces has taken a major step towards addressing Pune’s current and future requirements for fully integrated residential-commercial convenience.
Average home prices in Gurugram up 76 Percent in 2 years, say’s report
Gurugram: The real estate prices of houses in Gurugram have risen to an average of 76 percent in the past two years driven by high demand and expectation for more homes. The newly released Prop Index Report by Magic Bricks reveals an average price of Rs 14,650 per sq ft, 15.5% up in the last quarter alone (July to September in the fictitious year 2024).
Mr. Gaurav K Singh, Founder & MD, Womeki Group, “As we embrace the vibrant festival season in India, the real estate market is experiencing a notable transformation. Recent trends reveal a shift in buyer preferences toward spacious homes that offer a blend of comfort and functionality. With remote work becoming a lasting reality, many are seeking properties that accommodate their evolving lifestyles, favoring amenities like home offices and communal spaces. Additionally, attractive financing options and festive discounts create a sense of urgency, prompting many to take the leap into homeownership. Many eager homebuyers wait for this period, motivated by the festive spirit and the desire to invest in new beginnings. real estate developers recognize this enthusiasm and often roll out attractive deals, catering to investors, end users, and channel partners alike. These incentives aim to make homeownership more accessible and appealing, offering prospective buyers additional financial benefits and added value to enhance their festive season. The festival season is not just about celebration; it’s a strategic moment in the real estate market that fosters investment, innovation, and community growth.”
This growth pattern can be accrued mainly to a major infrastructure factor led by the successful construction of Dwarka Expressway. Housing sectors in Gurugram and newer sectors, in particular, have become more attractive to home buying as this major project has helped to increase connectivity between the two cities. While core Gurugram locations remain steep in rates these emerging sectors are gaining attention for affordable prices in housing, especially around central business districts.
Mr. Viren Mehta, Director, ElitePro Infra said, “The Gurugram real estate market has shown remarkable resilience, with property prices increasing by 76% over the past two years. This surge highlights the strong demand for housing, especially in key areas that offer enhanced infrastructure and connectivity. While the supply of residential units has also grown, the rising prices reflect sustained investor confidence and the premium that buyers are willing to pay for quality homes. Developers must now focus on balancing supply and affordability, ensuring that the market remains attractive for both homebuyers and investors alike.”
The report also pointed out that the prices have risen sharply and despite the demand for residential units going up a decent 9.9 percent QoQ, while new supply coming in at a much faster pace of 18.3 percent QoQ, thanks to an increase in the number of new listings and new project launches in the quarter.
Mr. Ashish Agarwal, Director, AU Real estate – Over the last 2 years, we have witnessed an unprecedented surge in home prices in Delhi NCR, driven primarily by the region’s ongoing infrastructure development. The enhancements in connectivity and accessibility have not only elevated the desirability of NCR as a residential destination but have also stimulated significant interest from homebuyers. As we approach the festive quarter, we anticipate continued growth in housing sales, as consumers seek to make meaningful investments during this auspicious time.
Also, there is high demand of ready to move apartments, prices have gone up to 12.9 percent quarter on quarter to Rs 13,729/ sq ft, and under-construction apartment prices have gone up to 17.3 percent quarter on quarter to Rs 16,180/ sq ft.
This report factually shows that 3 BHK units are the most in-demand, taking the majority with 66% of the total share. The average price for these units has increased by 21.6 percent in the last quarter which is at Rs 14,600 per square feet. End-user interest is inclined towards upcoming apartment micro-markets like the Dwarka Expressway where the average residential rate was Rs 14,800 against Rs 12,600 in New Gurgaon and Rs 17,000 in Golf Course Extension.
The Dwarka Expressway along with New Gurgaon and SPR has become the most searched area for real estates, as the report identifies. This change signifies a rise in interest in the real estate market in Gurugram connecting the city as a key player to the Delhi NCR real estate market.
Mr. Santosh Agarwal, CFO and Executive Director of Alphacorp, “The impressive 76% surge in residential prices across Gurugram over the past two years is a clear reflection of the region’s growing demand and strong market fundamentals. Gurugram has transformed into a key real estate destination, attracting both end-users and investors, driven by infrastructural advancements, improved connectivity, and the influx of multinational corporations. This price appreciation also mirrors the rising aspirations for luxury and high-end properties. We view this as a pivotal time to continue enhancing our project offerings with cutting-edge amenities and sustainable designs to meet the evolving needs of discerning buyers. Additionally, Gurugram’s growth trajectory aligns with broader economic trends, making it a robust investment hub for the future. With sustained government support and further infrastructure projects in the pipeline, the outlook remains highly positive for Gurugram’s real estate market.”
With infrastructure gradually developing more and new projects on the horizon, the residential market of Gurugram holds a promise of even more growth and the city remains as one among the top choices for consumers and investors.
Mr. Didar Singh, Senior Vice President – Sales, Trehan Iris, said, “Gurugram has seen a remarkable 76% increase in home prices over the past two years, reflecting its rise as a key business hub. The completion of significant infrastructure projects, particularly the Dwarka Expressway, has enhanced connectivity to Delhi, attracting a growing number of residents. This influx has driven residential demand, pushing prices upward, especially in core areas. As the housing supply increases, newer sectors are emerging, offering quality residential options while still maintaining proximity to major business districts. Moreover, as infrastructure continues to develop, Gurugram’s appeal is set to grow, , further solidifying its position as a prime destination for homebuyers seeking both convenience and value.”
Why These Areas of Gurugram Have Become Property Hotspots and :
With prime locations and excellent infrastructure development in NCR, the Gurugram Dwarka Expressway, Southern Peripheral Road (SPR), New Gurugram, Golf Course Road, Golf Course Extension Road, and Sohna Road have become property hotspots. Home buyers are showing significant interest in these areas. Gurugram is known for its various expressways and has the facilities of Indian Railways, Rapid Metro, and Delhi Metro, with the upcoming Rapid Rail facility also set to become available. Last year, the Haryana government formed Gurugram Metro Rail Limited (GMRL), a special-purpose vehicle to implement the 28.5 km metro expansion project from Millennium City Center to Cyber Hub, which will integrate a large part of the city into the metro network.
The Future of Indian Housing
By Mr. Akash Pharande, Managing Director – Pharande Spaces
India’s urban population explosion is causing its bigger cities to burst at the seams. Overcrowding, pollution, traffic congestion, and deteriorating infrastructure are the ‘new normal’ – a state of affairs that we have begun to accept as inevitable.
According to the United Nations, about 40% of the Indian population will live in urban areas by 2030. The pressure this puts on housing, transportation, and basic amenities in our cities is immense. Because of these urban ‘growing pains’, many citizens have become disillusioned with their cities and are even considering moving to smaller, less crowded, and less expensive tier 2 and tier 3 cities.
However, there are two catches to this way of thinking – one, most employment opportunities are in our larger cities. Two, the hammer of development is bound to catch up even in the smaller cities. Is there a way for citizens to regain a wholesome, uncluttered lifestyle without abandoning their cities of choice? There is. Integrated townships are a viable solution. But before we get into that, let’s first examine the real-time challenges that our cities increasingly face.
Traffic Congestion
India’s cities are notorious for their traffic woes. In cities like Mumbai, Delhi, and Bengaluru, residents spend hours in gridlocked traffic every day. According to a 2021 report by TomTom, Bengaluru ranked as the sixth-most congested city in the world, with commuters spending an average of 71% extra travel time during rush hour. This congestion takes a toll not only on the economy but also on the well-being of urban dwellers, since long commutes lead to increased stress, reduced productivity, and poor mental health.
Pollution and Environmental Degradation
Air pollution is another pressing issue in Indian cities. The World Health Organization (WHO) ranks several Indian cities, including Delhi, Kanpur, and Lucknow, among the most polluted globally. In 2020, air pollution caused an estimated 1.7 million deaths in India, according to a study published in The Lancet. The over-reliance on private vehicles, combined with unchecked industrial emissions has led to worsening air quality, making it hazardous for people to live and work in densely populated urban environments.
Overcrowding and Infrastructure Strain
With the growing influx of people into cities, housing and infrastructure are stretched to the limit. Many Indian cities are ill-equipped to handle their burgeoning populations – resulting in cramped living conditions, inadequate water supply, and frequent power outages. This overcrowding exacerbates social and health issues, leading to an overall decline in quality of life.
The Solution – Integrated Townships
Amid these escalating challenges, integrated townships are the most viable alternative to traditional urban housing models. These large-scale developments are self-sustaining communities that combine residential, commercial, recreational, and educational facilities in one comprehensive layout. Unlike conventional city apartments, which are often isolated and disconnected from essential amenities, integrated townships provide a more balanced and convenient lifestyle.
Integrated Townships – A Brief History
Integrated townships began emerging in India during the 1980s and 1990s. Even before that, cities like Jamshedpur – founded in 1907 by the Tata Group to support their workforce – served as early examples of self-contained, self-sustaining communities. Jamshedpur was among the pioneers of integrated urban living in India where residential spaces were developed alongside recreational spaces like parks and essential services such as schools and medical facilities.
Chandigarh, planned by Le Corbusier in the 1950s, is another prime example of a development plan where housing and public facilities were created alongside commercial business centres. However, these were entire cities with their own municipalities. The concept of integrated townships – large residential complexes developed along with retail, office, civic and lifestyle developments – started gaining momentum in the 2000s.
Today, these townships have emerged as the single most transformative solution, offering a holistic living environment that promotes sustainability, convenience, and a better quality of life. They have become even more relevant if we consider the increasing chaos of modern city life.
Convenience and Reduced Commuting
One of the biggest advantages of integrated townships is the proximity to workplaces, schools, healthcare facilities, shopping centres, and entertainment options. By reducing the need for long commutes, these developments save residents time and money while alleviating traffic congestion in major cities. According to one report, more than 80% of homebuyers in metropolitan areas now prefer housing projects which are within a 10-kilometer radius of their workplaces.
Sustainable and Environmentally Friendly
Integrated townships are also designed with sustainability in mind. Green spaces, efficient waste management systems, rainwater harvesting, and renewable energy sources are increasingly becoming standard features of these developments. Integrated townships with eco-friendly infrastructure reduce carbon footprints and command a higher premium over non-sustainable developments. Moreover, by centralizing resources and infrastructure, integrated townships can reduce the strain on municipal services, thus promoting a more sustainable and resilient urban ecosystem.
Improved Quality of Life
Integrated townships prioritize the well-being of their residents by offering a range of recreational and wellness facilities. From parks and sports complexes to community centres and healthcare services, these projects are designed to cater to all age groups and lifestyle preferences. They foster a sense of community and safety, with round-the-clock security and controlled access points ensuring a secure living environment.
Moreover, the availability of schools and educational institutions within the township means that families do not need to send their children far from home, reducing stress and providing a better work-life balance. Many leading minds in the real estate industry have recognized integrated townships as the future of housing, particularly in countries experiencing rapid urbanization like India.
Not surprisingly, integrated townships outperformed standalone residential projects in both price appreciation and rental yields because of the superior convenience and amenities they offer. Furthermore, the demand for integrated townships is not limited to the residential segment.
After the COVID-19 pandemic, more and more businesses have realized how important it is to have their operations closer to where their employees live. As a result, the commercial real estate segment is also seeing a surge in demand for office spaces within township developments, thanks to the growing trend of the ‘walk-to-work’ lifestyle.
Towards a Better Residential Experience
As India’s cities continue to expand, the traditional model of urban housing is proving to be increasingly untenable and homebuyers now seek alternatives that offer convenience, sustainability, and a better quality of life. Integrated townships are the answer, and will therefore account for more and more Indian residential spaces in the years to come.
About the Author:
Akash Pharande is Managing Director – Pharande Spaces, a leading real estate construction and development firm famous for its township projects in Greater Pune and beyond. Pharande Promoters & Builders, the flagship company of Pharande Spaces and an ISO 9001-2000 certified company, is a pioneer of townships in the region. With the recent inclusion of Puneville Commercial into one of its most iconic townships, Pharande Spaces taken a major step towards addressing Pune’s current and future requirements for fully integrated residential-commercial convenience
Brookfield Properties Secures Renewable Energy from Bikaner Solar Project by Brookfield Asset Management
21st October 2024: Brookfield Properties has secured renewable power from Brookfield’s Bikaner Solar Power Project in the first partnership in India under the Inter State Transmission System (ISTS) bilateral arrangement. As a result, Brookfield Properties’ occupiers in Delhi NCR now receive 40% of their energy from renewable power.
This transition at its four marquee campuses—Candor TechSpace Sector 48 and 21 in Gurugram, and Candor TechSpace Sector 62 and 135 in Noida—is part of the BIRET portfolio and is expected to reduce more than 20,000 metric tons of CO2 annually. This is equivalent to removing approximately 4,300 cars from the road annually.
This collaboration will enable Brookfield Properties to achieve its sustainability goals. The partnership benefits the environment while providing occupiers with a sustainable, cost-effective energy solution delivered directly to their premises, without additional contracting or operational or capital expenditures, ensuring transparency and compliance with sustainability commitments.
Brookfield’s Bikaner Solar Power Project has been commissioned with 550 MWp of capacity, making it one of the largest ISTS connected renewable energy park in India. The site’s power output will cater to the energy requirements of the Commercial & Industrial (C&I) segment. The equity investment for Bikaner was provided by the first vintage of the Brookfield Global Transition Fund (BGTF I), the world’s largest fund focused on investments that aim to accelerate the global transition to a net-zero carbon economy while delivering strong risk-adjusted returns to investors.
Brookfield has invested in platforms which comprise a portfolio of over 25 GW of wind and solar assets in operation, construction and development.
Ananya Tripathi, Managing Director, Real Estate in India, Brookfield said, “Given our scale, we recognize the importance of both, addressing environmental issues that are most material to our business and creating positive outcomes for our stakeholders. This collaboration represents our ability to power our properties’ portfolio with renewable energy solutions and brings us closer to our goal of using 100% renewable power across Brookfield Properties by 2027.”
Murzash Manekshana, Managing Director and Head of Asset Management in India, Renewable Power & Transition, Brookfield said, “Companies are turning to renewables because it lowers their costs, reduces their carbon footprint, and improves energy security. This partnership harnesses the Brookfield ecosystem, with the Brookfield-developed Bikaner solar power plant fulfilling the renewable energy needs of Brookfield Properties. We remain committed to offer tailored solutions and being the partner of choice for Indian corporates in achieving their sustainability goals.”
Brookfield Properties continues to lead in sustainable development and operations, recognized as an EDGE Champion by the International Finance Corporation (IFC) for its commitment to green building practices and decarbonizing its portfolio.
The planned transition to 100% renewable energy by 2027 reinforces Brookfield Properties’ leadership in sustainability across its entire 55 MSF portfolio in India. With over 450 leading Indian and global tenants, Brookfield Properties is committed to supporting their sustainability goals through innovative solutions. These efforts are central to Brookfield Properties’ strategy to achieve net zero emissions across its India portfolio by 2040 or sooner. By providing direct access to traceable renewable energy, the company advances shared sustainability objectives and enhances the value offered to its tenants. The strategic partnership facilitates scalability and aligns with global industry standards, establishing benchmarks that highlight its commitment to responsible development in India.
FOMO vs. FOBO – In A House Hunt, One Helps and the Other Hurts
By -Akash Pharande, Managing Director – Pharande Spaces
India’s real estate market provides many opportunities for home buyers. However, it is not easy to navigate, especially for first-time buyers. With so many options and also varying offers from developers, it is often difficult to decide which property purchase ticks all the right boxes for an individual buyer who has never purchased a property before.
Within this complexity, the psychological phenomena of FOMO – the Fear of Missing Out and FOBO – the Fear of Better Options – play big roles in homebuyer decisions. While FOMO can be advantageous in such decisions, FOBO leads to indecisiveness. This can have potentially harmful results.
FOMO and FOBO – Digging Deeper
FOMO is a state of anxiety induced by the fear that one is missing out on an exciting or lucrative opportunity. In real estate, FOMO is what drives timely purchase decisions. As we know, the best projects sell out quickly and prices are also constantly rising, so FOMO is a positive impulse.
On the other hand, FOBO – the Fear of Better Options – causes aspiring buyers and investors to overanalyze the available options. At any given time, more than just a few properties are available to homebuyers that meet their budget, ideal location and lifestyle expectations.
FOBO tends to paralyze the decision-making process because the buyer is constantly hoping to find a superior alternative even if they have already identified a very suitable option. There is, of course, nothing wrong with having plenty of options, but FOBO tends to get buyers stuck in an endless loop of indecision. This can cause them to miss out on perfectly good properties at acceptable price points.
FOMO Can Be Your Ally
Though FOMO has become a derogatory word on social media, it has its advantages. In the context of residential property, it can induce genuine buyers to make timely decisions. This is very important in a market where the best options are often sold out during promotional launches. Infrastructure development, demand, and escalating development costs are constantly pushing up property prices. Homebuyers who experience FOMO at the right time and act on it are often at an advantage in such a fast-paced market.
In many of our cities, projects in high-demand areas often have limited inventory. Once these options are sold and off the market, there may be no similar options available at such prices for a long time – or ever. FOMO helps buyers to overcome hesitation and act quickly when they see a property that meets their needs and budgets.
Likewise, home loan interest rates can be quite volatile, and they play a major part in the overall cost of acquisition. When interest rates are low, FOMO works to the benefit of buyers by driving them to apply for home loans and closing deals before interest rates go up once more. The same is true for periods of discounts, such as the festive season
First-time homebuyers undergo a lot of anxiety when the time comes to take the plunge. FOMO helps convert this anxiety into productive action. Once buyers finally make their commitment, the fear of missing out goes away and relief takes its place.
FOBO – The Fence-sitter Limbo
In contrast, a state of perpetual indecision leads to stress and regret if good options are missed out on. While FOMO can result in positive action, FOBO tends to freeze the decision-making process altogether. While scouting the housing market for a home, this can have catastrophic consequences.
FOBO results in an endless chase after a ‘better’ property, location, or deal. Buyers in this state of ‘analysis paralysis’ tend to see one favourable option after the other snapped up by someone else, or become too costly for them to buy.
With FOBO, a buyer who finds a home in a good area, in a project by a good developer, and at a price they can afford, will entirely miss the bus as they perpetually look for a better deal. By the time they circle back to the previous option, it is often too late.
The endless search for the ‘ideal’ option in a world where perfection is a myth only results in emotional distress and lost opportunities. Yes, the housing market is replete with options, but no single home buyer can – or should aspire to – inspect them all. Buyers with FOBO are invariably frustrated, confused people who cannot make up their minds on anything of significance.
In real estate, time is money and you can’t afford to lose either. A delay of even a couple of months can mean a substantial increase in property prices due to demand, inflation, or other market factors. FOBO’s inability to commit to a decision often results in missed chances to lock in properties at favorable prices or lower interest rates.
Over time, these costs add up, making the eventual purchase far more expensive than it would have been had the decision been made earlier.
Finding the Middle Ground
That said, there is also a healthy balance of FOMO and FOBO possible. It’s just a matter of finding that mid-point. Even if there is a sense of urgency, a buyer must not make hasty decisions and do his or her due diligence.
It is certainly important to see as many properties as is feasibly possible. This should not be a hurried process. It is best to set oneself a timeline within which a decision will be made. Usually, a month of dedicated searching is ample time. It is also important to factor in market conditions and to take professional advice before signing on any dotted line.
You want to leverage the urgency of FOMO and turn it into positive energy – but set realistic criteria. A buyer should have a list of ‘must-haves’ to refer to, and should not over-extend their budget. Set a limit to how big your shortlist should be.
If it starts getting endless, FOBO has taken over and it is time to snap out of it. You’re looking for a home that makes you happy, which you can afford, and which will appreciate well over time. Once you’ve found this home, make sure that you know that your hunt is over.
About the Author:
Akash Pharande is Managing Director – Pharande Spaces, a leading real estate construction and development firm famous for its township projects in Greater Pune and beyond. Pharande Promoters & Builders, the flagship company of Pharande Spaces and an ISO 9001-2000 certified company, is a pioneer of townships in the region. With the recent inclusion of Puneville Commercial into one of its most iconic townships, Pharande Spaces taken a major step towards addressing Pune’s current and future requirements for fully integrated residential-commercial convenience
Storyblok partners with Deloitte Digital
Deloitte Digital uses Storyblok to complete tailored experience delivery tasks in 2 hours instead of 2 days
New York, NY – 10am EST – September 30, 2024 – Storyblok, the modern content management system (CMS) for all teams, has added global creative consultancy Deloitte Digital as a Certified Partner. Storyblok’s Certified Partners are a selected group of agencies that are best-equipped to help brands implement the CMS to accomplish digital transformation projects.
Deloitte Digital started its journey with Storyblok while building a Sustainability & Climate website for its parent company, Deloitte. The agency wanted to use an efficient CMS that fits the mission and message of the website.
Thanks to the flexibility of Storyblok, Deloitte Digital was able to meet its efficiency goal by using Storyblok for content creation, editing, and then exporting the published content to a monolithic CMS used for hosting the website.
Once the developers and content team experienced the productivity benefits of Storyblok and its easy-to-use Visual Editor through this project, they started using it to quickly develop website concepts for new customers using composable components.
Christian Hartkemeyer, Senior Manager at Deloitte Digital, said: “It only takes 2 hours to complete the delivery of tailored experiences in Storyblok that used to take 2 days in other CMSs. The more we use Storyblok, the more we want to use it for other internal and customer projects. Being a Storyblok Certified Partner means that our customers can trust us to deliver similar results for them.”
Barry D’Arcy, VP of Partners at Storyblok, said: “Deloitte Digital’s expertise in digital innovation underscores Storyblok’s flexibility as a powerful CMS. From strategic digital initiatives to comprehensive transformations, their proven experience allows us to deliver exceptional content solutions globally. Together, we are empowering more brands to embrace modern content management and unlock the full potential of their digital experiences.”
America’s Most Welcoming Holiday Cities Ranked
City Name | Population | Number Of Hotels | Number of Hotels with 4* and above rating | Percentage of High-Rated Hotels | Average Hotel Price | Happiness Score | Recreation Score | Food & Entertainment Score | Traffic Index | Crime Index | Safety Index | Highest Temperature C | Lowest Temperature C | Composite Score |
Gilbert, AZ | 247,542 | 139 | 69 | 49.64% | $191.88 | 62.99 | 152 | 144 | 115 | 14 | 86 | 26 | 15 | 99 |
Fremont, CA | 232,206 | 185 | 113 | 61.08% | $168.54 | 74.16 | 145 | 176 | 113 | 42 | 58 | 22 | 11 | 90 |
Irving, TX | 236,607 | 129 | 66 | 51.16% | $300.78 | 51.93 | 167 | 140 | 107 | 37 | 63 | 26 | 15 | 81 |
Garland, TX | 236,897 | 121 | 49 | 40.50% | $127.05 | 50.87 | 134 | 154 | 106 | 36 | 64 | 26 | 15 | 79 |
Chula Vista, CA | 277,096 | 49 | 20 | 40.82% | $75.19 | 61.75 | 159 | 179 | 170 | 56 | 44 | 22 | 15 | 78 |
Chandler, AZ | 280,663 | 168 | 94 | 55.95% | $225.58 | 60.9 | 128 | 93 | 135 | 23 | 77 | 26 | 15 | 77 |
Laredo, TX | 264,473 | 73 | 37 | 50.68% | $134.83 | 45.52 | 117 | 170 | 158 | 36 | 64 | 29 | 18 | 76 |
Hialeah, FL | 237,069 | 145 | 82 | 56.55% | $197.06 | 52.91 | 107 | 165 | 151 | 45 | 55 | 29 | 22 | 75 |
Irvine, CA | 330,521 | 120 | 71 | 59.17% | $222.99 | 68.22 | 57 | 131 | 73 | 26 | 74 | 24 | 12 | 74 |
Riverside, CA | 319,504 | 153 | 72 | 47.06% | $570.44 | 56.69 | 124 | 141 | 99 | 40 | 60 | 26 | 12 | 73 |
The Importance of Compliance Management in Businesses to Mitigate Risk & Ensure Security
As regulatory requirements evolve, businesses face increasing pressure to comply with laws and industry standards. Continuous compliance Management can help organisations to prevent lawsuits and policy violations. Compliance management software has emerged as a vital tool to help organisations efficiently manages these challenges.
TeamLease Regtech CEO and Co-Founder Rishi Agrawal has simplified compliance management, ensuring businesses stay on top of regulations, avoid penalties, and increase operational efficiency.
Here are the ways to stay compliant and how it can help businesses streamline their processes:-
1. Streamlining Compliance Processes with Automation
Manual compliance processes are often complex, time-consuming, and prone to errors. Compliance management software, such as TeamLease Regtech, automates tasks like tracking regulatory updates, generating reports, and monitoring compliance status. This reduces the administrative burden on teams and ensures more consistent compliance practices.
2. Real-Time Monitoring and Alerts
Keeping up with the constant changes in regulations is one of the biggest challenges businesses face. Compliance software provides real-time monitoring of legal updates and automatically alerts businesses of relevant changes. TeamLease Regtech ensures organisations are immediately notified of any regulatory shifts, helping them stay compliant at all times.
3. Reducing Legal and Financial Risks
Failure to comply with regulations can result in hefty fines, lawsuits, and reputational damage. Compliance management software helps mitigate these risks by ensuring businesses follow all necessary legal guidelines. TeamLease Regtech offers tools that assess and track risk exposure, allowing companies to take proactive measures and reduce the likelihood of non-compliance.
4. Customizable for industry-specific needs
Different industries are subject to different regulatory frameworks. TeamLease Regtech allows organisations to customise their compliance management system to fit their specific needs, ensuring they meet industry-specific regulations such as GDPR, PCI-DSS, or HIPAA. This adaptability makes it easier for businesses to manage multiple layers of compliance.
5. Simplified Reporting and Audits
Regulatory audits require thorough documentation and preparation. Compliance management software automates the reporting process, making it easier for businesses to prepare for audits. TeamLease Regtech generates detailed reports and keeps a comprehensive audit trail, reducing the time and effort required to stay audit-ready.
6. Ensuring Data Protection and Privacy
In the age of data breaches and privacy concerns, staying compliant with data protection laws is critical. Compliance management software helps businesses safeguard customer and employee data by ensuring adherence to privacy regulations. TeamLease Regtech offers features that monitor data handling practices and ensure compliance with privacy laws, reducing the risk of data breaches.
How Sustainable Technologies Are Transforming Commercial Office Elements and Building Practices
Mr Sunil Bedi, Founder, JMD Group
The drive towards sustainability has become a defining characteristic of modern architecture and commercial building practices. As environmental concerns take center stage, businesses and developers are increasingly adopting sustainable technologies that not only reduce their carbon footprint but also enhance efficiency and long-term cost savings. This transformation is reshaping the way commercial spaces are designed, constructed, and maintained.
The Rise of Sustainable Building Practices
Sustainable building practices involve the integration of eco-friendly technologies and materials into the construction and operation of commercial buildings. These practices are guided by principles such as energy efficiency, resource conservation, and minimal environmental impact. The result is a new generation of office buildings that are not only environmentally responsible but also healthier and more productive for occupants.
Key Sustainable Technologies in Commercial Spaces
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Energy-Efficient Lighting and HVAC Systems: One of the most significant areas of transformation is in lighting and heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems. Modern commercial buildings are increasingly incorporating LED lighting, which consumes significantly less energy and has a longer lifespan compared to traditional lighting. In addition, smart HVAC systems use sensors and automation to optimize temperature and airflow, reducing energy consumption and enhancing comfort.
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Green Building Materials: The choice of materials plays a critical role in sustainable construction. Materials like reclaimed wood, recycled metal, and low-VOC (volatile organic compound) paints are becoming standard in green building projects. These materials not only reduce the environmental impact but also contribute to better indoor air quality and occupant health.
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Water Conservation Technologies: Water efficiency is another crucial aspect of sustainable office buildings. Technologies such as low-flow fixtures, water recycling systems, and rainwater harvesting are helping commercial spaces reduce their water consumption. These innovations are essential in areas where water scarcity is a growing concern and contribute to the overall sustainability of the building.
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Renewable Energy Integration: The integration of renewable energy sources, such as solar panels and wind turbines, is becoming increasingly common in commercial buildings. These technologies enable offices to generate their own clean energy, reducing dependence on fossil fuels and lowering greenhouse gas emissions. In some cases, buildings can even produce surplus energy that can be fed back into the grid.
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Smart Building Management Systems: The rise of the Internet of Things (IoT) has given birth to smart building management systems that allow for real-time monitoring and control of energy usage, lighting, security, and more. These systems provide valuable data that can be used to optimize building operations, reduce waste, and improve overall efficiency.
The Impact on Office Design and Employee Well-Being
Sustainable technologies are not just about reducing environmental impact—they also enhance the quality of the work environment. Natural light, improved air quality, and comfortable temperatures contribute to a healthier and more productive workspace. Studies have shown that employees in green buildings report higher levels of satisfaction, well-being, and productivity, leading to better overall business performance.
Furthermore, the adoption of sustainable technologies aligns with the growing demand for corporate social responsibility. Companies that prioritize sustainability can enhance their brand image, attract top talent, and meet the expectations of environmentally conscious clients and investors.
Conclusion
The integration of sustainable technologies into commercial office elements and building practices is no longer a trend—it’s a necessity. As businesses and developers recognize the long-term benefits of sustainability, we can expect to see even greater innovations in this field. From energy efficiency to smart building management, these technologies are transforming the commercial real estate landscape, paving the way for a more sustainable and prosperous future. The commitment to sustainability is not just about protecting the environment; it’s about creating spaces that foster well-being, efficiency, and success.