Vastu tips for positive energy at home

The energy flow in a house is greatly influenced by its construction and the décor in the house. We look at some simple ways in which home owners can boost the positive energy in their homes

Each one of us desires to live in a home that is comfortable, calming and rejuvenates us. It is important to understand that the energy within a house, affects the people who occupy it. “One’s environment helps in building a foundation for a healthier mind and body and Vastu Shastra offers ways to create a healthier life,” says Nitien Parmar of VastuPlus. “If followed correctly, Vastu Shastra can help the home’s residents to become physically and mentally healthy,” Parmar adds.

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Vastu tips for the main door

Vastu principles improve a living space, according to the principles of harmony and energy flow. The main door of a house is the entry point for energy. “A door that opens outward pushes energy away from home. So, have the main door opening clockwise. Opportunities may be limited, if the door does not open fully. Ensure that the lobby near the main door is not dark. Good lighting stimulates positive flow of energy and promotes balance and harmony within the premise. Every house should have a threshold (umbra) on the floor, at door frame. It protects the house from external negative influences,” adds Parmar.

Declutter for positive energy

One can positive energy into a house, by decluttering and cleaning the space. Clutter creates stagnant energy and impedes the flow of positive energy. Avoid keeping chipped, cracked or broken things. Clean the cupboards and drawers and clear things that are no longer in use. Keep the house clean and ensure that there are no cobwebs. Add few spoons of sea-salt to the water and mop the floor with it. It is believed that mopping the house with salt water, will reduce the effects of negative vibrations.

Vastu-compliant construction

There is a strong connection between the energy of the house and the health of the occupants, maintains Rasesh H Shah, energy facilitator and Vastu expert. “Ancient architecture was all about proportions and planning the structure in a manner that it is always in sync with the magnetic field of the earth and harmony of colours. It is most important to commence the construction at the right moment (muhurat) and to use non-offensive building materials. Every built space has three types of energies – cosmic, earth and structural. To make the space positive and to ensure that all three are in harmony with each other, keep the centre of the space, which is called the Brahmasthan, free of any kind of structural violation. This will ensure that the flow of cosmic energy is balanced. Earth energy can be balanced by keeping the north-east corner lively. Structural energy can be harmonised, by ensuring that there is no clutter in the space,” advises Shah.

Rectifying Vastu faults

According to Vastu experts, one can also attract positive vibes to enhance the health and well-being of the occupants, by simply arranging or correcting items in the surroundings. “If the bathroom is directly opposite to the kitchen, keep the door closed and use a Vastu energy partition on the door frame to separate these opposing energies and to block the negative energy,” says Parmar.

“Mirrors bounce back energies. Hence, if the bed on which one sleeps, is in the line of the mirror, it is advisable to remove the mirror or to cover it, for better sleep. A tulsi plant is a must for the home, as it clears negative energy,” concludes Shah.

Home décor tips for positive energy

• Fresh air and sunlight aids positive energy at home. So, ensure that you keep the home’s windows open, for some time in the morning.
• Aquariums are akin to moving water and it is auspicious, when placed towards the north-east.
• Avoid having a tree, pole or pillar facing the main door. It is called a dwar vedh (door obstacle). Similarly, avoid having dead plants near the door.
• Keep the bathroom door closed. Always keep toilet lid down, when not in use. Ensure that there are no leaking taps at home. Use pleasant fresheners in the bathroom.
• Do not keep medicines in the kitchen.
• Switch off all electronic and Wi-Fi systems, while taking rest.
• Play soothing divine music or chanting of mantras at home, for some time in the morning.
• Ensure that the furniture edges are not sharp. Avoid excessive use of red, black and grey in the home’s décor.
• Avoid having split levels in the floor.
• Pictures at home should always be positive. Avoid photos depicting war, loneliness, poverty, etc. To generate positive energy, display pictures of nature.
• For a calming effect at home, light a diya, camphor or add soothing fragrance like sandalwood.

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Source: housing.com

Basic rights that tenants and landlords need to be aware of

When it comes to rental accommodations, there are some basic rules and rights that tenants, as well as landlords should be aware of, to avoid friction. Here's a look at some simple, yet, commonly overlooked aspects

People who live in rental accommodations, often face disputes on minor things with their landlord. It is, therefore, essential to know what your rights as a tenant are, as well as the rights of the landlord. Both parties must respect these rights, to live in harmony.

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Basic things that the landlord must provide with the property

According to Nishit Dhruva, managing partner, MDP & Partners, “The most basic requirements that a landlord (licensor) ought to provide to the tenant (licensee) under the common Leave and License Agreements include:

• - Accurate details of the licensed premises, such as the size of the premises, availability of car parking area, etc.
• - Willingness and cooperation to get the leave and license agreement duly stamped and registered, at the sub-registrars office.
• - Uninterrupted use and occupation of the licensed premises.
• - Safety and privacy to the licensee, to use and enjoy the licensed premises.
• - Clear right, title and interest, to provide the licensee with the license to use and enjoy the licensed premises.

Tenants should inspect the apartment for defects and make a note of them, by taking a photo to share with the landlord. They should ensure that the plumbing systems (including the water pressure), electricals fixtures and other provisions in the apartment are in a usable condition. Some tenants also request that the landlord repaint the walls, before they move into the apartment.

When should the deposit be handed over to the landlord?

“The deposit is usually an advance given by the tenant to the landlord as a security, while moving into the rented apartment. The purpose of the deposit is to protect the landlord, in case of any damages or alternatively, in the event of any non-payment by the tenant. The payment period for the deposit is usually stipulated in the agreement with the landlord. The deposit is typically inclusive of administrative fees. Any grounds for deduction from the deposited, should be specified in the agreement. The deposit is returned to the tenant after the completion of the tenancy period, assuming that there are no deductions applicable,” explains Shubika Bilkha, business head at REMI.

Who bears the cost of repairs in a rental home?

Experts believe that ideally the licensor should bear all costs arising out of wear and tear and structural damage caused to the licensed premises, on account of the monthly license fees enjoyed by them. However, most of the parties come to an understanding, whereby, the licensor bears the costs of all long-term structural damage, while regular wear and tear is borne by the licensee.

Under what condition can a landlord ask the renter to leave the property?

A landlord can ask the tenant to vacate under two conditions:

• - Eviction with a cause and
• - Eviction without a cause

Dhruva elaborates: “Landlords can allow the tenant the pre-decided notice period, to look for alternate accommodation, in case of eviction without cause. In most situations, the following causes can be a reason for eviction:

• - Consistent delay in the payments received from the tenant.
• - Violation of a term or a condition specified in the agreement.
• - Illegal activities on the leased property.
• - Serious damage to the rental property.”

Increase in rental

Increase of rent is entirely up to the understanding arrived at between the licensor and the licensee. Strictly as per the law, there is no cap on such increase and the licensee must negotiate and settle on fair terms, in respect of the increase in rent.

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Source: housing.com

Real Estate Investment: Why Navratri is a good time to buy property

Navratri is considered auspicious to buy new assets. With the onset of this festival, real estate developers also come up with their special offerings for buyers.

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Things to consider, Why Navratri is a good time to buy property

Navratra or Navratri is a nine-day festival celebrated across India with great zeal and vigour. It involves worshipping nine incarnations of Goddess Durga. In India Navratri is celebrated twice a year: Chaitra Navaratri normally falls in the month of March-April and Shradiya Navaratri is usually celebrated in the month of October or November.

This period is considered auspicious to buy new assets. With the onset of this festival, real estate developers also come up with their special offerings for buyers. Usually, developers offer discounts on property prices during this festival season. The offers, however, are generally for a limited period or on specific days. For example, a discount on the per square feet rate on the last two days of Navratra is a common practice. Developers also offer free gifts during this time. The commercial real estate fraternity remains quite upbeat about the festive season and looks forward to the start of new projects. Some developers start the construction of new malls, retail shops etc.

Banks also encourage property buying during the Navratras by offering several schemes. These schemes include lower interest rates, waiver on processing fees, and faster processing of the loan, etc.

These days are considered highly auspicious; purchasing made during this time is believed to bring good luck, opulence and wealth to the buyer. Especially the real estate sector sees a massive boom during these nine days.

However, despite the offers being lucrative, experts suggest that buyers should not fall for these and must conduct a thorough research before making a buying decision. Buying a property is an important decision in a buyer’s life and all required parameters such as builder reputation, location, specifications and etc should be checked.

Whatever be the case, the Navratra season is believed to be a good time to buy property and if you are looking to invest in property, then this may be the right time for you.

Also read: The home buyers’ guide to choosing the right amenities

Back to All Thane Real Estate Resources, Thane Property News and Articles

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Source: financialexpress.com

Design must-dos for doing up a weekend home

While a weekend home can be a relaxing getaway, home owners need to ensure that the home is designed, according to the climate and topography of the area

Vacation homes are increasingly becoming popular as a niche housing segment, with many row house and bungalow projects coming up near metro cities in India, in the past decade.

“These second homes are mostly located on the outskirts of cities,” points out Ravi Gurav, member of the MCHI. “Consequently, the infrastructure in these locations, may not be at par with that in the city. Secondly, a majority of these locations, are either above the sea level (for example, Karjat), in hilly areas or close to beaches (for example, Alibaug),” he adds. Hence, the climatic conditions at these locations, are not the same as that in cities and this needs to be considered, before designing the second home.

Ateev Gala, executive director of the Vijay Group, feels that the climate and topography of an area, can be leveraged while designing a weekend home. “The architectural theme and concept of the second home, can boost its ‘enjoyability quotient’. For example, one can design the homes with a colonial or mediterranean theme, with ample fresh air, sunlight and natural views, to match the requirements of people,” he says.

Credits : Freepik.com

Things to consider, while designing a weekend home

A well-designed house, should keep its occupants comfortable, in all seasons. “To achieve this, one should hire an architect or engineer, who is well-versed with the kind of materials that will sustain in such climate. They must also lay down a practical plan that ensures that all the required materials are easily available and affordable,” advises Sushil Raheja, CEO, Raheja Homes Builders & Developers.

Site layout:

If it is a low-lying area, consider a raised platform for the house. If the area has trees and greenery, opt for a layout that does not harm the vegetation. One should also check the soil of the place and ensure that the drainage system can cope with the soil and water conditions.

Regions that receive substantial rain:

In such places, the humidity levels are higher during the day, while the ambient temperature is lower during the night. Hence, one should choose building materials that allow for air circulation and also insulate from the cold nights. Earth as a building material for walls, is the best possible choice and can be used in the form of stabilised blocks or as rammed earth panels. Large overhanging roofs can be used, to prevent the walls from getting soaked in heavy rains. The windows must be protected, using a chajjah or box, to prevent water from entering the house. The appliances and furniture must be properly coated, to protect them from moisture, while the the flooring should be non-skid.

Beaches and coastal areas:

These areas have very high humidity throughout the day. Hence, homes in such regions should have a well-designed ventilation and cooling system, to dehumidify the indoor air. These places also receive generous amount of sunshine and ambient temperatures can be very high during the day. Hence, a greater thermal mass for the walls – to retain the heat and not allow it to pass indoors, is very important. Locally-sourced stones or even earth, can be a very good eco-friendly alternative to regular bricks or concrete blocks. Coastal areas also have salty air. Thus, the appliances and furniture must be treated accordingly, to avoid rusting.

Climatic condition:

Ricky Doshi, director, ARD Studio explains, “Places like Lonavala, Khandala and Deolali, have climatic conditions that differ from Mumbai. They are located at a higher altitude, thereby, making the air more dry than in Mumbai. These regions receive more rainfall and have cooler temperatures in winters. These factors have to be considered, while designing the home.”

Hill slopes or mountains:

It is very important to anchor the structure properly, on such terrain.

Stilt foundations provide a viable solution, reducing the footprint of the dwelling and preventing it from getting in the way of surface aquifers, if any, along the slopes. At the same time, the superstructure above, must be lightweight and thermally insulating. Wood is a good alternative for the flooring and walls and helps to control indoor temperatures. Stone shingles can be used for the roof, to protect from harsh sunlight.

On flatter regions, stone can be used for constructing the entire building, as it is abundantly available.

Expenditure incurred

According to Ashish Bhuvan, principal architect and partner, IdeinLab Architects, “If one were to use a single set of materials across all terrains, one would end up spending more on the operational and maintenance costs of the building during its lifecycle. Hence, it is better to chose locally available materials and systems, which are cost-effective and suit the location.” However, additional expenditure may be needed, to build a house, based on the topography and types of materials that are required. In some cases, this may be 15%-20% higher than the cost of building a traditional house in a temperate zone. Also, local materials may not be available and one may need to spend on transportation costs.