Post deluge Chennai awash with real estate investments

MUMBAI: It is only natural that the real estate prices will come under pressure after a massive deluge like this and the pressure is more visible in the deluge affected southern part of Chennai. Though it may sound a bit odd to talk about " investments" now, it is the best time to go for bottom fishing in Chennai real estate. This is because this kind of deluge happens only once in 100 years. Though the initial negative reactions may last few years, market will return back to normal after that. The situation was similar to Mumbai real estate also after the 2005 deluge.

The main advantage to Chennai real estate investors is that the prices were cheap even before the deluge and therefore, worth consider for investment. Only thing the prices have come down further due to deluge. "Chennai real estate is worth investing and not for speculating. This is our view before the natural calamity and we will take a re-look after a month", says Dr. Samantak Das - Chief Economist & National Director - Research at Knight Frank India.

Real estate in a city consists of several micro markets, so investors need to concentrate on specific areas in Chennai that are bearing the brunt now. Though it takes months to settle the situation, first hint will be available in the form of changes in home searches. Home buyers have practically stopped searching for some areas now (see table for more details). On the other hand, they are searching for home in other areas.