There is this continuous improvement in the income level. The people in lower income group are getting in the middle-class category with the middle-class going a level higher. As a result, a major part of the population would be able to invest in new prop
stamp duty and registration charges should also be reduced. Also, if other duties like approval charges can come down, then a lot of people can benefit and afford their own houses. I have seen in several foreign countries like Singapore, Malaysia, and China, where the respective governments have given thrust on housing, the quality of citizens have improved. Once a person has his own house, he becomes more responsible and the crime rate also goes down. Therefore, it acts as a boon for the society.
Q. How will the real estate bill ( RERA) affect Bengal?
night operators would not be able to continue with their business. Those who did not have the intention to do business in a disciplined manner are going to be ones affected. As a result, people will have more faith in developers with credibility and CREDAI welcomes this.
Q. While urbanisation has been an instrument of economic, social and political progress, it has led to serious socioeconomic problems. How can one create a balance in this regard?
would be able to invest in new properties, but support from the Government is also necessary to make it a reality. They need to reduce tax charges, interest rates and stamp duty to make the future of the country brighter.
People migrate to urban areas because of the facilities such as job opportunities, health education, entertainment available here. If these are made available in the rural areas as well, the mass influx will be less. This calls for creating more jobs, setting up educational institutions, providing better health facilities and welfare schemes in those areas. This will also reduce the present socio-economic disparity. With an increase in population, there will be an increase in demand too. So, the government has to be ready for it.
Unless we have some kind of infrastructure to cope with the urban population explosion, it is not possible for all to have a healthy lifestyle. It’s a very tricky situation and the government must take it seriously. It should be dealt with utmost priority otherwise, there will be serious law and order problems and health hazards. We all need to understand the demand and work towards it.
We focus on the customers, their background, requirements andaspirations. Based on these details we source the land and plan theproject.
Q. How do you perceive the future of the real estate business in Kolkata?
It is very bright and becoming more professional. Developers will be more transparent and accountable. I believe Real Estate is now almost like the Automobile Industry, both have huge competition, innovative marketing, customer services, and it demands innovations in products. With increasing competition, things will only get better.
Q. How is Merlin different from other Real Estate groups?
We were one of the first professional groups in the real estate sector. We set up our website way back in 1997 when only a few could access the internet. We started with our direct marketing, customer service wing and after sales service then. All of this contributed to our growth and as a result, we have the maximum brand recall today. Our motto is to treat customers as kings because after all he’s investing his life savings with us.
Q. Do you have any message for young entrepreneurs?
Kolkata has a bright future with youngsters coming up with brighter ideas. One needs to work hard and focus on their carrier plan. They should be able to come out of their comfort zone and look for dynamic opportunities. I strongly believe that one has to fight his own battle.
They should gain experience and draw inspiration from places where things are up to the mark. This city can provide a good working atmosphere in contrast to other cities. Also, Kolkatans are very warm and supportive. So, young entrepreneurs can easily start their careers in Kolkata.