Since August 2011, the Indian rupee has depreciated by over 20 percent against the American dollar. During the same time it has also fallen against many other major currencies – 12 percent against the pound, 6 percent against the euro and 21 percent against the yen.

While this does not bear good tidings for the Indian economy and domestic markets, the falling rupee has served as a trigger for NRIs looking to invest in the Indian property market. The weak currency ensures NRIs receive more funds on conversion thus making the property cheaper.

At the same time, the Indian government has simplified the rules and regulations for non-residents who are looking for an investment in real estate in India. The recent approval of the Real Estate (Regulation and Development) Bill by the Cabinet offers the buyer increased transparency in the real estate market. The bill demands mandatory declarations from the developer community to ensure a higher level of project accountability and to eliminate false information from the property market. It also calls for the compulsory registration of real estate agents. These measures will boost the confidence of NRIs wanting to invest in India.

Additionally, the RBI regulations defining the purchase and sale of immovable properties in India by a Non Resident Indian have been modified in recent times to ensure a hassle free and simple experience without any problems. The NRI investing in India can also enjoy tax benefits designed especially for him. For instance, an NRI is applicable to pay capital gains tax when he sells property, but he enjoys a special benefit towards home loan repayment. Also the entire amount that he pays towards the interest of the home loan is deductible from their taxable income unlike the rupees150,000 slab for Indians.
To add to this, the market too is ready to embrace NRI investors with many developers offering custom made offers especially for non-resident buyers.

All of these critical factors have worked together to create a favorable environment for NRI investments. Under these circumstances the current depreciation of the rupee has served as a catalyst to transform the Indian property market from a favorable environment to an excellent investment opportunity that promises a lucrative return on investments.

According to analyst’s inputs from markets across the country, NRIs today are keen to invest in real estate in India and take advantage of the opportunity. Indian realty portals have seen a surge of international web traffic and enquiries. However this interest does not always convert into an investment. A prime reason for this is lack of expert guidance as well as logistical constraints in identifying the right property, making on site visits, negotiating a deal, and ensuring necessary documentation.

Understanding this challenge, ACE REALTY has launched Assisted Property – A unique service which helps homebuyers and investors navigate the real estate market from any part of the globe. As part of this service, users will be assigned a dedicated property search manager to research the market and to help shortlist properties tailored to meet their singular requirements.

With this service, ACE REALTY has helped bridge the gap between intent and investment, thus making the property buying experience easier for Indians and NRIs alike.