Buying a luxury property in India as an NRI can feel overwhelming. Balancing work, family, and multiple time zones means that flying back and forth for in-person property visits isn’t always practical.
What if you could explore every corner of a Mumbai highrise or a villa without leaving your home? Virtual site visits make this possible.
They’re not just a temporary fix—they’re a smart, efficient way to inspect properties, ask pertinent questions, and make informed decisions, no matter where you live. Let’s explore how to maximize this modern tool.
Why Virtual Site Visits Are Perfect for NRIs
Virtual site visits address many of the challenges NRIs face when investing in Indian real estate. Here’s why they work so well:
- Saves Time and Money:
Instead of spending days travelling, you can evaluate multiple properties in a single afternoon—eliminating the need for flights, reducing jet lag, and avoiding lengthy absences from work. - Provides More Details:
With high-quality videos and live video calls, you can zoom in on finishes, inspect room sizes, and even ask the agent to demonstrate specific features (like opening cabinets or testing light switches). - Offers Effective Control:
You decide when to tour, which areas to focus on, and how many times to revisit a particular property. This level of control is like having a personal real estate assistant at your fingertips.
For example, imagine you’re interested in a luxury apartment in Thane. A virtual tour lets you inspect the marble flooring in the living room, view the panorama from the balcony, and assess the parking area—all while you’re sitting in your office in London.
How to Plan and Execute a Virtual Site Visit
Step 1: Start with Online Research
Begin by browsing property listings on reputable websites such as Magicbricks or 99acres. Use filters to narrow down options by location, budget, and amenities. Look for keywords like “virtual tour” or “3D walkthrough.” Many established developers provide detailed project pages with floor plans, high-resolution images, and even video tours.
Tips for Effective Research:
- Shortlist Wisely: Choose 3–5 properties that match your criteria to avoid overwhelming yourself with options.
- Check Developer Reputation: Read reviews or news articles about the builder to ensure they have a track record of quality and timely delivery.
Step 2: Schedule the Virtual Tour
Contact the developer’s sales team or your real estate agent to book a virtual visit. Provide your time zone so that they can arrange a slot that suits your schedule. Confirm whether the tour will be conducted as:
- Live Video Call: A real-time walkthrough using platforms like Zoom, WhatsApp, or Skype.
- Pre-Recorded 3D Tour: A detailed video you can view at your own pace.
Pro Tip:
Share your priorities with the agent. For example, mention, “I’d like to see the kitchen storage areas, the natural light in the living room at different times of the day, and the view from the master bedroom balcony.”
Step 3: Conduct the Virtual Walkthrough
During the virtual tour, treat it as you would an in-person visit. Request that the agent move the camera slowly and cover every corner of the property. Here’s what to focus on:
- Natural Light:
Ask the agent to show the property at different times—morning and evening—to see how natural light affects each room. - Storage Spaces:
Have the agent open closets, kitchen cabinets, and utility areas to ensure there’s ample storage. - Balconies and Views:
Request that the agent step outside to provide a clear view of the surroundings, which is crucial for assessing the neighbourhood and overall ambience.
Example:
If you’re viewing a luxury highrise, ask the agent to take you on a tour of the views from the rooms and the shared area, ensuring you get a full picture of the amenities.
Read Also: How a Second Home in India Can Strengthen Your NRI Roots
Key Things to Check During the Virtual Tour
A luxury property is more than just a beautiful facade. It’s essential to assess quality, functionality, and location—all remotely. Here’s how:
Layout and Design
- Room Flow: Check if the living area connects smoothly to the dining and kitchen spaces. Ensure there is enough room for your furniture and lifestyle needs.
- Storage Solutions: Verify that there are sufficient storage options in the kitchen, bedrooms, and utility areas.
Construction Quality
- Materials and Finishes: Ask about the types of flooring (marble, tiles, wood), countertop materials (granite, quartz), and window frames.
- Fixtures and Fittings: Evaluate the quality of taps, showerheads, and electrical sockets. Durable, branded fixtures are a good sign.
Location and Infrastructure
- Nearby Amenities: Request that the agent share their screen to show nearby facilities such as hospitals, schools, and metro stations using Google Maps.
- Future Developments: Inquire about upcoming projects (like new highways or business parks) that could potentially increase the property’s value.
Tips to Get the Most Out of Your Virtual Visit
Even the best virtual tour might miss some nuances. Here are some extra tips:
- Prepare a Checklist of Questions:
Create a list of detailed questions to ask during the tour. For example:- “What is the thickness of the main door—does it offer sound insulation?”
- “Are the kitchen cabinets modular and customizable?”
- “What options does the builder offer if I want to make interior changes before moving in?”
- Request Additional Photos and Videos:
Ask for close-ups of details that might not be clearly visible during the live tour—such as corners, ceilings, or behind-the-scenes utility areas. Request videos that demonstrate amenities like the gym, elevators, or security systems. - Verify Legal Documents:
Before making any decisions, confirm key legal documents during the virtual tour:- RERA Registration: Ensure the project is registered with the Real Estate Regulatory Authority (RERA) by checking the registration number on the respective state’s website.
- Occupancy Certificate: Ask to see the occupancy certificate, which confirms that the building is safe and approved for living.
- Title Deed: Verify that the property’s title deed is clear and that the developer holds legal ownership of the land.
Read Also: A guide to choosing wall colours for each room of your house.
Post-Visit Follow-Up and Decision-Making
Once you’ve completed the virtual tours, here’s how to move forward:
- Compare Properties:
Create a simple comparison table with key details such as price per square foot, amenities offered, developer reputation, and delivery timelines. This will help you objectively assess which property best meets your needs. - Consult Experts:
- Legal Advisor: Have a lawyer review the sale agreement and verify all legal documents.
- Financial Advisor: Discuss the payment options, loan facilities, and tax implications (especially for NRIs) to ensure you’re making a financially sound decision.
- Finalize the Purchase:
Many developers now allow online document signing via platforms like DocuSign. Use secure payment methods, such as transfers through NRI bank accounts or verified wire transfers, to complete the purchase.
Conclusion
Virtual site visits are revolutionizing the way NRIs invest in Indian luxury real estate. They offer a convenient, cost-effective alternative to in-person visits without sacrificing the details necessary for making an informed decision.
By following a structured approach, starting with thorough online research, scheduling and executing a detailed virtual tour, and focusing on key quality and legal aspects, you can confidently evaluate and select a property that fits your lifestyle, all from the comfort of your home.
Ready to begin your journey into Indian luxury real estate? Schedule a virtual tour today to Rustomjee residential properties and step confidently into your dream home, no matter where you are in the world.
FAQs
- How long should I allocate for a comprehensive virtual property tour?
A thorough virtual tour typically takes 45-60 minutes. This allows time to inspect all rooms, ask questions about finishes and amenities, and request close-up views of specific features. Consider scheduling an additional 15-30 minutes if you want to see the property at different times of day.
- Can I negotiate the price after a virtual visit?
Yes, virtual tours offer ample opportunities to point out any discrepancies or issues with the property. Use what you observe to negotiate for a better deal if needed.
- How can I ensure that the property is as good as it appears online?
In addition to the virtual tour, consider hiring a local inspection agency to conduct an in-person check. Their detailed report can offer reassurance and uncover any potential issues not visible during the virtual visit.
