Real Estate Magazine

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Vol. 2 Issue 4

From Humble Beginnings To Towering Achievements Ankush B. Asabe CHAIRMAN & MANAGING DIRECTOR VENKATESH BUILDCON As I reflect on my 25-year journey in the Real Estate industry, I am reminded of the small village of Solapur where my aspirations first took root. From humble beginnings to becoming a significant player in Pune’s Real Estate market, my journey has been defined by determination, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. My tryst with the world of Real Estate began long before I stepped into the corridors of Civil Engineering. The ambition to delve into the realm of construction and development had already taken root during my high school years. Armed with this determination, I pursued a diploma in Civil Engineering, laying the foundation for what would become a lifelong passion. Following my graduation, I embarked on a five-year stint with a renowned builder in Mumbai, absorbing invaluable insights into the intricacies of the industry. Yet, my thirst for knowledge and understanding led me to explore the role of a contractor for three years, honing my skills and broadening my perspective. In 1994, I made the pivotal decision to set foot in Pune, drawn by its dynamic business landscape and promising opportunities. While initially, I chose to immerse myself in the corporate realm for a year, it wasn’t long before I returned to my roots as a contractor, paving the way for the eventual launch of my first project in 2000 at Katraj-Ambegaon, marking the inception of a new chapter in my journey. Throughout these years, the spectre of failure never loomed over me, a testament to my unwavering self-belief and relentless drive for excellence. Instead of seeking inspiration from external sources, I found motivation within myself, constantly striving for self-improvement and growth in every endeavor I undertook. The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic presented unprecedented challenges for the Real Estate sector, casting a shadow of uncertainty over the market. However, steadfast in my resolve, I refused to succumb to pessimism, seizing the opportunity to make bold investments, such as acquiring a plot of CDSS (Cummins Diesel sales & Services) in Erandwane, Pune during the peak of the crisis and launching Venkatesh Erandwane Central. While each project marked a milestone in my journey, the Venkatesh Lake Vista project holds a special place in my heart. It was an entrepreneurial leap as my inaugural solo venture in 2010. Completing the project on time and witnessing its success remains etched in my memory, reaffirming my belief in the power of determination and hard work, setting a precedent for timely delivery and unparalleled quality. Reflecting on my experiences, if I were to offer advice to my younger self, it would be to embrace well-informed decisions and embrace risks without fear. The journey of an entrepreneur is fraught with uncertainties, but it is through calculated risks that one paves the path to success. The advent of RERA ushered in a new era for the Real Estate sector, heralding transparency and accountability. For me, it was a validation of the ethos I upheld in my business practices. While some faltered, unable to meet the stringent regulations, I embraced RERA wholeheartedly, recognizing its role in cleansing the industry of malpractices and increasing transparency for customers. Pune’s Real Estate market stands as a testament to its burgeoning potential, fueled by the influx of both domestic and international investors. With a thriving commercial sector and a growing demand for residential spaces, Pune has emerged as a beacon of opportunity for aspiring homeowners and investors alike. As I impart my wisdom to the younger generation entering the industry, I emphasize three non-negotiable mantras: dream big, aim for excellence, and above all, embrace hard work. These principles have been the cornerstone of my journey, guiding me through the highs and lows of entrepreneurship. To first-time buyers, I offer a simple yet crucial piece of advice: look beyond the property and scrutinize the brand behind it. Ensure that the builder is reputable, and assess the accessibility of essential amenities and facilities. Adopt a futuristic outlook, envisioning the potential for growth and development in the surrounding area. In closing, my journey epitomizes the essence of determination. From the streets of Solapur to the skyline of Pune, every obstacle has been a stepping stone, propelling me closer to my dreams. As I continue to chart new territories and push the boundaries of success, I am reminded that the true essence of fulfillment lies in the journey itself.   THE NEXT TYCOON As a director at Venkatesh Buildcon, Piyusha, a second-gen entrepreneur at Venkatesh Buildcon, drives strategic development aligning with long-term goals. Her key role is to foster innovation, lead dynamic teams, implement processes, and capitalize on market  opportunities for success.

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Vol. 2 Issue 1

Legacy Of Standardization In Real Estate              ——— The Ravi Varma NARrative              Chairman, NAR India… Mr. RAVI VARMA is the Chairman of National Association of Realtors India which is a PAN India organization which offers its members an opportunity to give Multi City Solutions to their clients. His journey in Real Estate in his own words………………………….. My NARrative :- I happened to stumble upon the World of Real Estate by chance. I was part of the Second Batch of MBA Graduates from Pune University. When I began working for a Company, due to our busy schedules, my Wife and I had a weekend marriage, where I would visit her on weekends, change my clothes, pack my bags, and head out again. This arrangement meant that my Wife was always looking for activities which would generate money as well as help me to work out of the same city and have some family life. One day, when I came home, she excitedly told me that she had started her own Real Estate Brokerage Company. Intrigued, I asked her to explain it to me. She explained that she shows properties to people, facilitates the sale and receives 2% Commission from each Transaction. As a Marketing Manager for a high-tech Machine Tool Company, I travelled all over the Country, sometimes spending over a year on a single deal due to the high values involved. In comparison, my      Wife’s proposition of working in and around Pune, showing properties, and earning a significant income seemed remarkably simple. Initially, I couldn’t understand why anyone would be willing to pay just  to view properties and facilitate transactions. However, my perspective changed once I joined her in the business. Since she started the company in 1982, I never needed to rely on my Salary, which served as an indicator that her venture  was successful. In 1986, after four years of her running the business, I decided to leave my Job and join her. We saw this as an opportunity to earn money as a young couple, and also have a more time together. From that point on, we never looked back. All I had to do was introduce myself as Mrs. Varma’s Husband, and people already recognized her as a reputable Real Estate Broker. This made it easier for us to establish connections and gain trust from Builders and other Stakeholders in the Industry. When I first entered this Industry, I quickly noticed that some of the individuals whose products I was selling, lacked knowledge of the business and were not very transparent in their dealings. Our credibility was at stake in these situations. Back then, it was possible to make Sales by merely showing  an empty piece of Land, without any knowledge about  the Title or whether the person showing the Land actually  owned it or how the builder would finance the project. This led to the collection of significant amounts of money from buyers which would then be transferred to other Projects. Unfortunately, many of these Projects never materialized. This realization prompted me to understand the importance of having Multiple Sources of Income. I realized that relying solely on brokerage, which involved many variables which were not under our control, was not sustainable. Within three months of joining her, I successfully traded my first piece of Land for a substantial profit in a rising market. In order to maintain purity within Our Profession and avoid confusion with other activities, we continued with the Brokerage Company while establishing another Company specifically for Land Trading. Additionally, we ventured into land development and creating exclusive bungalow societies, which we successfully sold. We also engaged in joint ventures for projects on my lands, and four of them have already been completed. We deliberately avoided entering into the construction business due to our conservative nature and reluctance to borrow money. To this day, we have not borrowed a single paisa from anyone. Key Skill Sets To Sustain In This Business:- Acquire In-depth Knowledge Of The Industry:- It is crucial to familiarize yourself with the unique characteristics and aspects of each vertical within the Real Estate Sector. By studying and understanding the economics and profitability of each vertical, you can effectively add value to your work. Develop Active Listening Skills: – To truly understand your Client’s needs, it is essential to be a good Listener. Patiently listening to your Clients allows you to comprehend their requirements and tailor your Services accordingly. Having empathy towards their needs is the key to offering the RIGHT PRODUCT AT THE RIGHT LOCATION AT A PRICE THE CLIENT WANTS. Master Your Product :- It is imperative to have a thorough understanding of how each amenity and specification of the products you are offering can meet your Client’s needs. In Real Estate, as in any business, customer satisfaction plays a significant role, and being knowledgeable about the product you are offering will help you achieve this goal. Emphasize Transparency :- Clearly communicate the services and benefits your Client’s can expect from you. By being transparent about your offerings and pricing, you enable your Client’s to make informed decisions. If they find a cheaper alternative elsewhere and choose to go with it, respect their decision. Comprehend The Buying Process :- Gain a comprehensive understanding of the decision-making dynamics within the purchasing process. Identify the key decision-makers, the financing parties, the initiators, and the end users. Continuously focus on recognizing and understanding these roles to serve you clients more effectively. Uphold Ethical And Professional Standards :- Maintain integrity and professionalism in all your dealings. Provide accurate and honest information to your Client’s. Quoting excessively high prices may drive Client’s away, while quoting excessively low prices may undermine your credibility. Strive for fair and transparent communication at all times. Organizing an Unorganized Industry – Advent Of MAHARERA- The Industry began undergoing reforms in 1987 when Builders started organizing themselves.Mr Om Prakash Arora who was a prominent builder in those

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Vol. 1 Issue 4

The Suratwwala Business Group Ltd: A Story of Triumph Through Adversity As Jaatin Dhansukhlal Suratwala, the Managing Director and Chairman of Suratwwala Business Group Ltd, sits down to talk about his journey, one can sense the passion and emotion in his voice. The Suratwwala Business Group Ltd was founded in 2008 by Jaatin and his Family Members, and since then, they have been actively involved in the Real Estate field. From humble beginnings, the Suratwwala Business Group has come a long way, and today, it is recognized as one of the top-performing companies in the Real Estate Sector. The journey has been anything but easy. After completing his Degree in Metallurgy, he had to work in various fields due to family issues. However, he never gave up on his dreams and started his own businesses in various fields, including FMCG Trading. It was through a friend’s recommendation that got a business opportunity in Real Estate. Instead of just investing in the project, he sought a business partnership, and that marked the beginning of his journey in the Real Estate Sector. Dedication and aspirations are, what set the great apart from the merely good. Such is the philosophy of Jaatin Suratwwala, the ingenious businessman and Founder of Suratwwala Business Group Ltd. Jaatin has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to his dreams, turning them into a resounding success story in the Real Estate Industry. His unwavering pursuit of excellence earned his company the prestigious ‘Top Performer’ Award from BSE SME in 2021. The Suratwwala Business Group has been actively involved in the Real Estate Sector since 2004, and today, it has become a household name in Pune, Maharashtra. The Company is the only Real Estate player in Pune that has been listed in the SME segment since 2020, and its shares have gone from being priced at Rs. 15 to Rs. 175. The Suratwwala Business Group’s Hinjewadi Project is a testament to Jattin Suratwwala’s vision and dedication. With a total of 7 lac sq.ft., this Commercial Project is being developed in phases, with the first phase being delivered four years ago, and the last phase being launched recently. The entire project is set to be completed by 2026-27. This project is a prime example of Suratwwala’s commitment to deep learning of the business ecosystem and placing the customer at the center of all operations. By understanding what the customer wants and delivering on those expectations, Suratwwala has gained the trust and loyalty of customers, cementing the Suratwwala name as synonymous with reliability and customer satisfaction in the Real Estate Industry. Jaatin’s intellectual prowess and innovative spirit were put to the test when he launched the Company’s first project, the redevelopment of a small 2000 sq. ft. plot. Undaunted by the challenge, Jattin embraced it with open arms, and the project was a resounding success. From there, his Company took off, with the development of a gated community of more than 225 villas in Kasaar, Amboli, as well as a resort and villas in Temghar, near Lavasa. The company is also venturing into the field of Solar Energy through Suratwwala Natural Energy Resource (launched in 2023), providing net metering and contracting services. Jaatin’s principles of deep learning the business ecosystem and keeping the customer at the center have been crucial to his success. He is acutely aware of what his customers want and expect, and he delivers on those expectations. His philosophy of keeping customer satisfaction at the forefront of every project has been key to his success. Jaatin has stated, “Our real income is the happiness on the customer’s face when he gets possession of his house.” The Real Estate Industry has undergone significant transformations in recent years, with the introduction of transparency measures like MAHARERA. Jaatin supports such measures, stating that they have increased reliability and reduced instances of cheating, ultimately benefiting both, the industry and the customer. Jaatin Suratwwala’s success story is an inspiration to many young entrepreneurs and those aspiring to enter the Real Estate Industry. His journey from a Metallurgical Engineer to the Founder and Chairman of Suratwwala Business Group is a testament to his perseverance and commitment. Jaatin’s advice to new entrepreneurs is to be cautious in taking risks and manage cash flow effectively. He believes that over-trading is the only chance of failure in Real Estate and advises taking only as much risk as one can handle. As he puts it, “keep your feet firmly planted on the ground, while you look towards the sky.” Jaatin advocates hard work and trust in the process, even when faced with challenges. He believes that every loss is a gain and treats all his mistakes and losses as experience points. “Every challenge is an opportunity,” he says, “and I have learned from every one of them.” For Jaatin, the core values of trust, quality, and commitment are crucial to succeeding in the Real Estate Industry. By keeping the Customer at the center of all operations and delivering on their expectations, he has gained their trust and loyalty. In conclusion, Jaatin Suratwwala’s story is one of hard work, dedication, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. He has shown that with a strong vision and a commitment to customer satisfaction, anything is possible. As the great Martin Luther King Jr. once said, “You don’t have to see the whole staircase, just take the first step.” And Jaatin has undoubtedly taken that first step, leading his Company – Suratwwala Business Group Ltd. towards a brighter and more prosperous future. Author Details: Mr. Jaatin Dhansukhlal Suratwwala Managing Director and Chairman  

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Vol. 1 Issue 3

Redefining Pune’s Skyline: One Place FC Road From the iconic spire of the Empire State Building in New York to the sleek and modern design of the Petronas Towers in Kuala Lumpur, from the towering heights of the Burj Khalifa in Dubai to the impressive infrastructure of Marina Bay in Singapore, landmark buildings have long captured the imagination and defined the identities of cities around the world. These structures, with their impressive size, distinctive architecture, and iconic presence, have become the very symbols of their respective cities, instantly recognizable and revered by all who see them. One Place FC Road is set to join its ranks as it rises to redefine the skyline of Pune, India. This grand and majestic project, with its towering 110-meter tall tower and unique design, is poised to become a beacon of progress and a symbol of pride for the city and its people, a shining testament to the vision and ambition of its developers, Mittal Brothers. Yet, One Place FC Road is more than just an impressive and iconic structure. It is also a testament to the values and principles of the Mittal Brothers, the well-respected and successful developer behind the project. The company is committed to sustainability, with a focus on energy efficiency, water conservation, and the use of eco-friendly materials. They also prioritize the well-being and safety of their customers and employees, with features such as a centrally monitored security system and a firefighting system that meets all relevant codes and standards. Expertly Designed and Built to Last: The Amenities of One Place FC Road In addition to its unique design and amenities, One Place FC Road is setting a new standard for sustainability in commercial real estate development. The building will feature energy-efficient glass windows that help to reduce heat gain and loss, resulting in lower energy costs for businesses and a more comfortable working environment. The building’s HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) system will also be designed to minimize energy consumption and improve indoor air quality. In addition to its focus on energy efficiency, One Place FC Road will also prioritize water conservation, with features such as low-flow toilets and water-efficient landscaping. The use of eco-friendly materials, such as recycled construction materials and low-VOC (volatile organic compound) paint and finishes, will also help to reduce the building’s environmental impact. With its impressive size, unique design, and commitment to sustainability and safety, One Place FC Road is a commercial real estate project that is truly visionary and innovative. Its strategic location on FC Road, along with its proximity to major transportation hubs and amenities, make it a prime destination for businesses and visitors alike. The One Place by Mittal Brothers has quickly established itself as a leader in the world of commercial real estate development, with a portfolio of impressive and iconic projects that have redefined the skylines of cities across India. From the grand and majestic One Place FC Road, which towers over the city of Pune, to the sleek and modern One Place Baner, which sits at the heart of one of the city’s most vibrant neighborhoods, and the highly celebrated One Place Wanowrie, which sets a new standard for luxury and convenience in the city of Pune, One Place has become synonymous with luxury and sophistication. But the brand’s success is not limited to these three projects. The company has a number of other projects in the pipeline that promise to set new standards for luxury and convenience. These developments, along with the others in the One Place portfolio, are sure to cement the brand’s position as the most premium and luxurious office space provider in India. With its commitment to excellence, innovation, and sustainability, One Place is poised to become a beacon of progress and a symbol of pride for the cities in which it operates. Luxury Meets Convenience: The 5-Star Hotel Experience at One Place FC Road For the first time, One Place FC Road is bringing a 5-star hotel experience to a commercial building. From the moment you step into the lobby, you will be enveloped in luxury and sophistication. The space is designed to impress and inspire, with elegant finishes, exquisite artwork, and a warm and welcoming ambiance. The lobby serves as the centerpiece of the building, a place where people can gather, socialize, and relax. However, One Place FC Road’s luxury lobby experience doesn’t end there. The building also offers a range of amenities and services that are typically found in a 5-star hotel. These include a valet service, where trained professionals will park your car for you and have it ready and waiting when you need it. This service is particularly convenient for business owners and executives who are short on time and need to quickly exit. Additionally, the building also offers a range of other amenities and services that are designed to make your experience at One Place FC Road as comfortable and convenient as possible. Whether you are a business owner looking for new office space, a retailer seeking a prime location, or just someone who wants to experience the city in a new and exciting way, One Place FC Road has something to offer. The building features a large floor plate with more than 10,000 square feet of carpet area, as well as a clear floor height of 12 feet, making it an ideal location for any corporate service. The building also features a large car park that can accommodate more than 400 cars and a food court and retail spaces on the ground floor and first and second floors. The building also boasts a large atrium and a large terrace garden on the top floor, providing plenty of space for relaxation and enjoyment. Mittal Brothers is more than just a successful developer of commercial real estate projects. It is a company that values its employees, recognizing them as the cornerstone of its success. The company is dedicated to creating a positive, supportive, and empowering work environment

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Vol. 1 Issue 1

Speaking volumes of success! A leading realtor, Satish Magar came into this profession purely by chance. The Magar’s had ancestral property that was within city limits. According to 1982 draft, it was proposed that this land would have to be surrendered for construction to meet the needs of growing urbanisation. In 1987, they gave a tough fight to retain the agricultural status of this land. However, people around began construction of buildings and it was not possible to stay as an island in the city. So, they gradually started development. Inclusive growth was the main concept. They grew by partnering with land-owners and entrepreneurs. They always lived in harmony. They had accepted that they could not pursue agriculture any more. Industrial acquisition and construction were growing rapidly. They realized that they had to go with the change and so they gave their hearts to it. After success of Magarpatta they felt as if they could do anything. They moved on to Nanded city project. They proceeded in the same fashion by bringing farmers together. Within no time they had 7500 bookings in hand at a very good rate but the plan was not yet sanctioned though they had taken environment clearance. They peeped within to see whether they had the capability to build so many flats on their own. Sensing incapability, they had to return people’s money and restart. There is no point in becoming over ambitious. One should first build one’s capability and then take up huge projects. They had to survive in the gap of 1.5 years. The market had changed, speculative buyers were in competition. They learnt a lesson that one should always deliver what has been promised. There should be no compromise in quality. Post pandemic requirement was for an additional room; taking isolation and work-for-home scenario into consideration. Earlier there would always be an extra room which got replaced in flat culture. Each one wants his or her own house. This urge gave a boost to this business. Pandemic also brought in digitalization and e-commerce. New changes were on the threshold and Satish Magar foresaw how Pune would be a hub of growing digital business. According to Satish Magar, realtors create assets that are permanent and have emotional value too. They provide not just houses, but homes that have psychological bonds too. He also reflects on the last two years of the pandemic when every profession faced a set-back. Financial discipline is very necessary to combat unforeseen problems. Only then can one sustain. He also underlines that they were wrong in not using social media for advertising and for underestimating the power of channel-partnering. They have taken up these two things and decided to aggressively market their schemes. He advises newbies that there is no substitute for hard-work. One should do what one can and not what one wants! Sincerity and discipline in work takes you a long way. Mr. Satish D Magar President CREDAI National Founder of Magarpatta township development and construction co Ltd

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