Buy Sample Flat- Buying a sample unit is beneficial for those looking for ready-to-move-in properties. These flats are fully furnished, saving the buyer the additional cost and work associated with home furnishing.
Site visits are important during the home buying process as they allow buyers to see the actual property they want to purchase. A developer usually provides a sample flat to the customer during a site visit.
These flats generally come fully furnished, giving buyers a clear image of how their dream home will look once they move in. There have been many complaints from customers that builders have misled them at the time of purchase by giving them a different house instead of one.
So, do sample flats differ from actual flats sold in a residential project? Many buyers are unsure whether they should purchase a sample flat or not.
In this post, we will learn about the advantages and disadvantages of buying a sample flat, and also discuss some points to keep in mind if you decide to buy a flat.
What is the definition of a sample flat?
A sample flat or flat is a fully furnished housing unit that closely mimics a real house (in terms of layout, amenities and finishings) offered by a builder as part of a project. These flats are artfully decorated with furniture, lighting and other decorative components, and potential buyers see these during site inspection.
Benefits of buying a sample flat
Ready for occupancy: Sample apartments come fully furnished, so buyers can move in immediately. As a result, buying a sample flat is ideal for those who are looking for a ready-to-move-in property but do not have time or want to spend a lot of money on furnishings.
No surprise: By receiving a sample unit, buyers are shown the exact property they will be purchasing.
Premium Finishing and Gorgeous Appeal: Sample flats stand out from other units in the same property due to their premium finishes and luxurious furniture. Furthermore, such flats are situated to provide excellent views.
Additional Specifications: A sample flat may include some additional features, like higher ceiling heights, that other flats in the project do not have.
Disadvantages of buying a sample flat
Limited Customization: Since the interiors of the sample flats are fully furnished, homeowners have limited options to customize the property. If they want to make changes to the design, they will have to do it at their own expense.
Location Concerns: Most of the sample flats are on the ground floor or lower floor of the project. This makes them sensitive to outside noise, which can be troublesome for some people.
Expensive: The developers have invested a lot of money in the interior design of these sample units. Thus, purchasing a sample flat can be expensive.
Symptoms of aging: Since sample flats are among the first flats constructed in a project, they may show signs of wear and tear sooner than others. As a result, they may require further maintenance or repair.
Sample flat vs actual flat
A true flat is often an unfurnished apartment with basic furnishings and fittings that are available to buy in a housing development. | sample flat | True Flat |
Definition | A sample flat is a duplicate of a project’s housing unit that is fully furnished including furnishings and fixtures. | A true flat is often an unfurnished apartment with basic furnishings and fittings that is available to buy in a housing development. |
furnishing | fully equipped | semi-furnished or unfurnished |
Cost | Expensive due to premium furnishing | Less expensive than sample flats |
Availability | ready to go in | Depending on the status of the project, it may be ready to move forward or may still be under construction. |
location advantage | Strategically positioned in a project that offers spectacular views and other benefits. | This sample flat may or may not provide location benefits. |
Things to consider before buying a sample flat
In some ways, buying a model apartment is similar to buying any other flat. It involves the same level of study, property inspection and budget projection as when buying a residential property. However, we have summarized some of the criteria that a buyer should consider before purchasing a sample flat in a residential project.
Layout and area:
The first thing a buyer should look at when viewing a sample flat is the floor plan or layout of the apartment, as well as the room proportions. This will allow them to see a picture of the arrangement of furniture and other items throughout the property. Check storage space in closets, cabinets, etc.
Ceiling Height:
In some cases, the floor-to-ceiling height of a sample flat exceeds standard specifications. Before buying a flat, make sure you inspect each room.
Floor and Location:
The buyer should pay attention to the floor on which the sample flat is located. If it is on the ground floor of a building, it is important to consider the advantages and disadvantages of purchasing such a unit. The surrounding area should also be examined to determine whether the necessary amenities and connectivity are present.
Furniture Specification:
Developers often choose furniture for display flats, which are usually smaller than normal sizes. This is done to make the flat appear bigger.
Aesthetics:
Analyze the wall colors, flooring, and storage units used in a sample apartment to determine the interior design style. One should verify that the aesthetics match the buyer’s preferences. Otherwise, they may have to bear the cost of any internal changes in future.
Quality:
A home buyer interested in purchasing a sample flat should evaluate the materials used by the developer. These include floor tiles in bedrooms and bathrooms, kitchen countertops and wall paint. The buyer should discuss any concerns with the developer before purchasing the flat.
Lighting and ventilation:
As with any home search, one must ensure that the flat has adequate windows and doors to provide natural light and ventilation.
Utilities and Tools:
Check to see that electrical fittings, switches and appliances are working properly. Determine whether an outlet needs to be fitted for safety reasons.
External:
Since sample flats are the first units built in a project, they may have signs of wear and tear or structural difficulties. These factors must be considered while purchasing a flat. Also, the buyer can know about the parking facilities provided by the developer.
Safety and security:
The buyer should confirm that fire safety precautions such as smoke detectors and fire extinguishers are in place.
Property Documents:
Finally, a home buyer should confirm that all the required documents are in order. They should study the legal terms and conditions.
RERA Registration:
Home buyers should confirm that the residential project is RERA registered. RERA is a regulatory body that aims to protect the interests of home buyers, and all developers are required to follow RERA norms and regulations.
Why is it important to inspect the sample flat?
In India, developers use sample apartments as a powerful marketing technique to lure buyers to their residential developments. These sample flats are built with premium features and finishes, creating a luxurious ambience and attracting potential buyers. However, experts recommend that when purchasing a sample unit, a homeowner conducts a thorough appraisal of the property. It is important to test a sample flat against various parameters. That is, one must not only confirm perfect fittings and excellent finishes but also determine whether the furnished flat suits the buyer’s lifestyle and preferences.
What should you do if you notice a problem with a sample flat?
If a customer faces any issues after purchasing a sample flat, such as construction quality-related difficulties, they can lodge a complaint with the state RERA.
Most states have an online RERA portal, so the buyer can visit the official portal and follow the steps to file a complaint online. Buyers can raise their concerns through various means, including filing petitions in the consumer court.
The buyer should check that all required documents are present. They can take the help of a legal professional who will walk them through the entire process.
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If you decide to buy a sample flat, establish a list of items to consider about the property, such as its aesthetics, location, layout or quality.
Apart from these concerns, a home buyer should also review the legal terms and conditions as well as the maintenance of the society to avoid future complications or disagreements. An important factor to consider is whether the property is RERA-registered.