CategoriesInformative Investment Market Trends Real Estate

Islamabad is full of Malls

The city of Islamabad has witnessed a rapid increase in the number of malls over the past few years. While some argue that the increasing number of malls is a sign of economic growth and development, others believe that over-construction of malls has led to saturation in the market, and the city is now at risk of experiencing a retail bubble. In this blog, we will delve deeper into the phenomenon of over-construction of malls in Islamabad, its potential impact on the real estate market, and the reasons behind this trend.

Over the past few years, the number of malls in Islamabad has increased significantly, with new malls popping up in different areas of the city. From luxury malls to budget malls, the city has it all. According to a report by JLL, a global real estate services firm, the retail space in Islamabad has increased by 57% over the past five years. The report also states that the city now has a total of 2.2 million square feet of retail space, with more than 50% of it located in malls.

While the construction of new malls may seem like a good thing for the economy, over-construction can have negative consequences. One of the biggest risks of over-construction is the saturation of the market. When there are too many malls in an area, they start to compete with each other for customers. This can result in lower sales, lower rental yields, and an increase in vacancy rates. This can ultimately lead to a retail bubble, where the market becomes oversaturated, and many of the malls start to struggle.

Another potential impact of over-construction of malls is on the real estate market. Malls are a major driver of commercial real estate, and when the market is saturated, it can result in lower demand for commercial real estate. This, in turn, can lead to a decrease in real estate prices, and a reduction in the overall value of the market.

So why is over-construction of malls happening in Islamabad? One reason is the booming population of the city. As the population grows, the demand for retail space increases, and developers see an opportunity to capitalize on this demand. Additionally, some developers may be taking advantage of easy financing options, which can lead to a flood of new developments in the market.

In conclusion, the over-construction of malls in Islamabad is a complex issue with potential consequences for both the retail and real estate markets. While the trend may seem positive in the short term, it is important for developers and investors to consider the long-term impact of their decisions. With careful planning and regulation, Islamabad can continue to grow and develop without risking a retail bubble or a downturn in the real estate market.

CategoriesInformative Investment Market Trends Real Estate

7-Star Hotel Coming to Pakistan?

As the capital of Pakistan, Islamabad is known for its natural beauty, urban planning, and modern architecture. With the city’s growing importance in the region, there has been a rising demand for world-class luxury hotels. In recent years, there has been news of a potential 7-star hotel coming to Islamabad, which would be a first for Pakistan. Let’s explore the details and the potential impact of this project.

The proposed 7-star hotel in Islamabad is part of the larger Blue Area Development Project, which is being carried out by the Red Sun Group. The project is located in the heart of the city, near the Blue Area, and spans over 70,000 square meters. The hotel itself will have 25 floors and will be built at a cost of $350 million. It is expected to have 250 rooms, multiple restaurants, a spa, a rooftop swimming pool, and a helipad.

This project is significant for several reasons. Firstly, it would be the first 7-star hotel in Pakistan, marking a new era for the country’s hospitality industry. The hotel will bring in new standards of luxury and service that have not been seen before in the country. It will offer high-end services and amenities, which will cater to both local and international clientele.

Secondly, the hotel is expected to create employment opportunities for the local community, both during construction and operation. It will also generate business opportunities for local vendors and suppliers, boosting the local economy.

Thirdly, the hotel will help to establish Islamabad as a global destination for luxury travel. With its modern infrastructure, scenic landscapes, and cultural landmarks, Islamabad has the potential to attract a new wave of high-end tourists from around the world.

However, it is important to note that the success of this project will depend on a number of factors. The Red Sun Group will need to ensure that the hotel is built to international standards, with top-quality materials and finishing. They will also need to hire experienced professionals in the hospitality industry to manage the hotel and ensure that it provides the level of service that is expected of a 7-star establishment.

Moreover, the Red Sun Group will need to take into account the current economic and political situation in the country. Pakistan has been facing a challenging economic environment for some time, and the COVID-19 pandemic has further impacted the hospitality industry. Therefore, the group will need to carefully evaluate the market demand for a luxury hotel of this caliber and determine whether it is a viable investment in the current economic climate.

In conclusion, the proposed 7-star hotel in Islamabad has the potential to be a game-changer for Pakistan’s hospitality industry. It will bring in new standards of luxury, create employment opportunities, and establish Islamabad as a global destination for luxury travel. However, its success will depend on the ability of the Red Sun Group to execute the project effectively, taking into account the current economic and political situation in the country.

CategoriesInformative Investment Market Trends Real Estate

Red Lines to lookout for before Investing in Real Estate

Real estate projects are a significant investment for both individuals and businesses. It is important to be cautious and conduct thorough research before investing in any project. Here are some red lines to consider when evaluating a real estate project:

Legal Compliance: The first thing to consider when evaluating a real estate project is whether it is legally compliant. Ensure that the project has obtained all necessary permits and approvals from relevant government agencies. Failure to do so may result in legal complications in the future.

Location: Location is one of the most critical factors in real estate investment. Look for a project located in a prime area that is accessible and has potential for growth. Also, check the infrastructure and amenities available in the area, such as transportation, healthcare, schools, and shopping centers.

Developer Reputation: The reputation of the developer is crucial to consider before investing in a real estate project. Look for projects developed by reputable and trustworthy developers with a history of successful projects. You can check their track record by researching their previous projects and customer reviews.

Financials: Evaluate the financials of the project thoroughly. Review the financial projections and ensure that they are reasonable and achievable. Check for the transparency of the pricing model, payment terms, and any hidden fees. Also, examine the financial health of the developer and ensure they have the necessary funds to complete the project.

Amenities: Amenities are important in attracting buyers and tenants. Check the quality and range of amenities available in the project, such as parks, pools, gyms, and parking.

Timelines: Delays in project timelines can cause significant financial losses. Evaluate the developer’s timeline for completion and ensure that it is reasonable. Also, examine the developer’s track record in delivering projects on time.

Quality of Construction: The quality of construction is a significant factor in evaluating a real estate project. Evaluate the quality of materials used in construction, the quality of workmanship, and the durability of the building. Check for any defects or issues that may impact the project’s value in the future.

Market Trends: The real estate market is dynamic and subject to change. Evaluate the current market trends and forecast for the future. Look for projects that have potential for growth and are likely to appreciate in value.

In conclusion, investing in a real estate project is a significant financial decision that requires thorough research and evaluation. Consider the red lines mentioned above before investing in any project to ensure a successful and profitable investment.

CategoriesInformative Investment Real Estate

Why Buy an Apartment in Islamabad?

Investing in real estate can be a significant decision, especially when it comes to buying an apartment in a city like Islamabad. Islamabad, the capital city of Pakistan, offers a variety of housing options, and buying an apartment can be an excellent choice for several reasons. In this blog, we will explore why you should buy an apartment in Islamabad and provide some stats to support our claims.

Affordability:

One of the main reasons to buy an apartment in Islamabad is affordability. In Islamabad, apartments are comparatively more affordable than houses. The average price of an apartment in Islamabad ranges from PKR 4,000,000 to PKR 20,000,000, depending on the location, size, and amenities. According to Lamudi Pakistan’s Q1 2021 report, apartments are the most searched for property type in Islamabad, with 60% of property searches being for apartments.

Security:

Security is a crucial factor to consider when buying a property. Islamabad is considered one of the safest cities in Pakistan, with a lower crime rate than many other major cities. Apartments in Islamabad usually have security guards and CCTV cameras to ensure the safety of residents.

Amenities:

Apartments in Islamabad come with many amenities, including elevators, backup generators, and dedicated parking spaces. Some high-end apartment buildings also offer gyms, swimming pools, and community halls. These amenities can make life more comfortable and convenient for residents.

Location:

Islamabad has a central location, making it easily accessible from all parts of the country. Moreover, the city is well-planned, with wide roads, green spaces, and clean air. Most apartments in Islamabad are located in prime areas close to markets, hospitals, schools, and other important amenities, making them an excellent choice for families.

Investment:

Buying an apartment in Islamabad can also be a sound investment. The real estate market in Islamabad has been stable in recent years, with a steady increase in property prices. According to Zameen.com’s Q1 2021 report, property prices in Islamabad increased by 4.89% compared to the previous quarter. Investing in an apartment in Islamabad can provide a good return on investment in the long run.

In conclusion, buying an apartment in Islamabad is a wise investment decision. It offers affordability, security, amenities, and a central location, making it an excellent choice for families and investors. With stable property prices and a growing demand for apartments, investing in an apartment in Islamabad can be a profitable decision in the long run.

CategoriesInvestment Real Estate

Investing in Blue World City: Deep Analysis

Blue World City is a real estate project located in the capital city of Islamabad, Pakistan. Developed by Blue Group of Companies, the project aims to provide affordable housing options for the middle-class population in Pakistan.

While the project has gained popularity among the masses due to its location and promised amenities, there have been questions raised about its legitimacy and credibility. In this blog, we will do a detailed analysis of Blue World City, its pros and cons, and whether it is real or a fraud.

Location:

Blue World City is located on the Chakri Road, which is in the vicinity of the New Islamabad International Airport. This location is considered prime as it provides easy access to the airport and other major highways in the area.

Amenities:

The project promises a range of amenities including a water theme park, sports complex, community center, and a state-of-the-art security system. The project also claims to have a dedicated transport system and a power backup system to provide uninterrupted electricity.

Pros:

The prime location of the project and promised amenities are some of the key advantages of investing in Blue World City. The project also provides affordable housing options for the middle-class population, which is a major requirement in Pakistan.

Cons:

Despite the promised amenities, the project has faced criticism for its slow pace of development. Many people who have invested in the project have complained about the lack of progress, which has led to delays in the possession of plots. There have also been questions raised about the credibility of the project, with allegations of fraud and mismanagement.

Real or Fraud:

While there have been allegations of fraud and mismanagement, Blue World City is a legitimate real estate project that is registered with the relevant authorities in Pakistan. However, investors should be cautious and do their due diligence before investing in the project.

Stats:

According to data from Zameen.com, Blue World City is one of the most popular real estate projects in Islamabad, with over 2,000 searches per day on the website. The project has also witnessed significant growth in the past year, with the average price of 5 marla plots increasing by 28% and the average price of 10 marla plots increasing by 34%.

In conclusion, Blue World City has its pros and cons, but it is a legitimate real estate project that provides affordable housing options in a prime location. While investors should be cautious and do their due diligence, the project has witnessed significant growth in the past year, making it a potentially lucrative investment opportunity.

CategoriesInvestment Real Estate

Impact of Ring Road on Islamabad Real Estate:

The development of a ring road around Islamabad is expected to have a significant impact on the real estate market in the region. The project is expected to boost the overall economy of the city and provide new opportunities for real estate investors. In this blog, we will explore the impact of ring road development on Islamabad real estate, along with the names of the interchanges on the ring road.

Firstly, it is important to note that the ring road is a 64km-long project that will provide a circular link between the existing road network around Islamabad. It is expected to ease the traffic congestion in the city and reduce travel times. Moreover, the project will provide new employment opportunities and encourage economic growth in the region.

In terms of real estate, the ring road is expected to create new development opportunities for investors. The areas surrounding the ring road are expected to see an increase in property prices due to the improved connectivity and accessibility. Moreover, the development of new residential and commercial projects along the ring road is also expected, which will provide new investment opportunities for investors.

According to a report by Zameen.com, the areas surrounding the ring road that are expected to see a rise in real estate demand include Bahria Town, DHA, Gulberg Greens, Bani Gala, and Park View City. The report also noted that investors are showing a keen interest in the areas near the proposed interchanges of the ring road.

The ring road project will have eight interchanges, which include the following:

  • Rawat Interchange
  • Radio Pakistan Interchange
  • GT Road Interchange
  • Sangjani Interchange
  • Kurri Road Interchange
  • Park Road Interchange
  • Lehtrar Road Interchange
  • Adiala Road Interchange

Investors are expected to show a keen interest in the areas surrounding these interchanges as they provide easy access to the ring road and other parts of the city. The development of these areas is expected to increase property prices in the region, providing new investment opportunities for investors.

In conclusion, the development of the ring road around Islamabad is expected to have a significant impact on the real estate market in the region. The project is expected to boost the overall economy of the city and provide new investment opportunities for real estate investors. The areas surrounding the ring road are expected to see an increase in property prices due to the improved connectivity and accessibility. With the development of the interchanges, investors are expected to show a keen interest in the areas surrounding them, providing new investment opportunities in the region.

CategoriesInvestment Real Estate

Impact of Bharakahu Pass on Islamabad Real Estate:

Bharakahu bypass is a major infrastructure project in Islamabad, Pakistan. It is expected to have a significant impact on the city’s real estate market. In this blog, we will explore how the Bharakahu bypass will help the real estate market in Islamabad.

The Bharakahu bypass is a 7.6-kilometer-long four-lane expressway that will connect the city’s southern areas to the northern areas, bypassing the congested and narrow streets of Bharakahu. It will run from Sangjani to the Murree Expressway, passing through Bharakahu and Bhara Kahu. The project is being built to ease the traffic flow in the area and provide a better and faster alternative route to the Murree Expressway.

One of the biggest advantages of the Bharakahu bypass is that it will significantly reduce the travel time for commuters. With the bypass, people traveling from the southern areas of Islamabad, such as Rawalpindi, Chaklala, and Bahria Town, will have a faster and more convenient route to the northern areas of the city, such as F-10, F-11, and G-11. This will make the southern areas of Islamabad more accessible and attractive to investors, thus increasing the demand for real estate in these areas.

Another benefit of the Bharakahu bypass is that it will open up new areas for real estate development. The areas surrounding the bypass, such as D-17, D-18, and Bahria Enclave, will become more accessible and attractive to investors and developers. This will lead to an increase in real estate development in these areas, as more people will be interested in investing in them.

The project is also expected to have a positive impact on property prices in the areas surrounding the bypass. As demand for real estate in these areas increases, property prices are likely to rise. This is good news for property owners in the area, as they are likely to see an increase in the value of their properties.

The Bharakahu bypass project is currently under construction and is expected to be completed by the end of 2021. The project is being carried out by the National Highway Authority (NHA), with a total cost of PKR 7.5 billion. Once completed, the bypass is expected to bring significant benefits to the real estate market in Islamabad.

In conclusion, the Bharakahu bypass is a much-needed infrastructure project that will greatly benefit the real estate market in Islamabad. It will provide a faster and more convenient route for commuters, open up new areas for real estate development, and increase property prices in the surrounding areas. It is a project that investors and developers in Islamabad should keep a close eye on, as it has the potential to bring significant returns in the future.

CategoriesInformative Investment Real Estate

Why Emaar failed in Islamabad?

Emaar is a multinational real estate development company that has operations in several countries, including Pakistan. In Pakistan, Emaar had launched two major projects, the Crescent Bay in Karachi and the Canyon Views in Islamabad. While the Crescent Bay project was a success, the Canyon Views project failed to meet the expectations of investors, which resulted in a loss of confidence in the company.

There were several reasons why Emaar failed in Islamabad:

Delayed Project Delivery:

The Canyon Views project was launched in 2005 and was supposed to be completed by 2009. However, due to various reasons, including litigation issues and lack of funds, the project was delayed for several years. This resulted in a loss of trust among investors, who had invested their money with the expectation of timely delivery.

Quality Issues:

There were reports of quality issues with the construction of the Canyon Views project. This included problems with the structural integrity of the buildings, as well as issues with the finishing and fittings.

Mismanagement:

There were allegations of mismanagement and financial irregularities on the part of the Emaar management in Pakistan. This resulted in a loss of trust and confidence among investors, who started to withdraw their investments.

Lack of Transparency:

There were reports of a lack of transparency in the operations of Emaar in Pakistan. This included issues with the allocation of plots, delays in the issuance of possession letters, and lack of clarity on the status of the project.

Political Instability:

The political instability in Pakistan, especially during the period of 2007-2009, also had a negative impact on the real estate sector. This resulted in a slowdown in the demand for real estate, which further compounded the problems faced by Emaar.

In conclusion, Emaar failed in Islamabad due to a combination of factors, including delayed project delivery, quality issues, mismanagement, lack of transparency, and political instability. These factors resulted in a loss of trust and confidence among investors, which ultimately led to the failure of the project.

CategoriesInformative Investment Real Estate

Hot Projects for Investors in Islamabad

Islamabad, the capital city of Pakistan, is a rapidly growing metropolis and an important hub for business, politics, and tourism. In recent years, there has been a surge in the development of hotels and resorts in Islamabad, catering to both business and leisure travelers. In this blog, we will highlight some of the upcoming hotels and resorts in Islamabad.

The Marriott Hotel:

The Marriott hotel in Islamabad is undergoing a massive renovation and expansion. The hotel will have more than 400 rooms and suites, making it one of the largest hotels in the city. The hotel will feature multiple restaurants, meeting rooms, and a state-of-the-art fitness center.

Hyatt Regency:

The Hyatt Regency in Islamabad is expected to open in 2025. The hotel will feature 400 rooms and suites, multiple restaurants, meeting rooms, a spa, and an outdoor pool. The hotel will be located in the Diplomatic Enclave, one of the most exclusive neighborhoods in Islamabad.

Hilton Garden Inn:

The Hilton Garden Inn in Islamabad is expected to open in 2022. The hotel will feature 150 rooms and suites, a restaurant, meeting rooms, and a fitness center. The hotel will be located in the Bahria Town neighborhood, which is rapidly developing into a major commercial and residential hub.

Zaver Pearl Continental Hotel:

The Zaver Pearl Continental hotel is currently under construction in the Blue Area neighborhood of Islamabad. The hotel will feature 300 rooms and suites, multiple restaurants, a spa, and meeting rooms. The hotel is expected to open in 2022.

Serena Hotel:

The Serena Hotel in Islamabad is one of the city’s most iconic hotels. The hotel is undergoing a major renovation and expansion, which will add more rooms, suites, and amenities. The hotel is known for its luxurious accommodations, excellent service, and beautiful surroundings.

Movenpick Hotel:

The Movenpick hotel in Islamabad is expected to open in 2023. The hotel will feature 150 rooms and suites, multiple restaurants, meeting rooms, and a fitness center. The hotel will be located in the Bahria Town neighborhood.

In conclusion, the hospitality industry in Islamabad is growing rapidly, with many new hotels and resorts opening in the near future. These hotels and resorts are not only adding to the city’s charm and beauty but also providing much-needed accommodations and services to the growing number of visitors to the city.

CategoriesInvestment Real Estate

Bahria Business District: The New Blue Area

The Bahria Business District in Islamabad has been gaining significant traction as a prime location for commercial and business activities in the city. Among its many attractions is the upcoming development of the “New Blue Area,” which has become a hot topic among investors and businesses looking to expand their operations.

The “Blue Area” is a well-known commercial and business hub located in the heart of Islamabad, and is home to numerous government offices, banks, and other businesses. The new development in the Bahria Business District aims to replicate the success of the Blue Area by creating a modern, state-of-the-art commercial and business hub.

The New Blue Area is a high-rise development that will offer a mix of commercial and residential units, including office spaces, retail outlets, and luxury apartments. The development will be equipped with modern amenities and facilities, including high-speed internet, 24/7 security, and a state-of-the-art HVAC system to provide a comfortable and safe working environment.

The project is being developed by Bahria Town, one of Pakistan’s leading real estate developers, known for its innovative and high-quality developments. The company is known for its focus on modern design, sustainability, and customer satisfaction, which makes the New Blue Area a highly anticipated development in Islamabad.

Investing in the New Blue Area offers several advantages for businesses and investors, including its prime location, modern facilities, and state-of-the-art infrastructure. The development is well-connected to major transportation networks and is located near major residential areas, making it an ideal location for businesses looking to expand their operations.

In addition, the New Blue Area offers a highly attractive investment opportunity, as the demand for commercial and business spaces in Islamabad continues to grow. According to recent statistics, the demand for commercial and business spaces in Islamabad is expected to grow by over 25% in the next few years, making the New Blue Area an ideal investment opportunity for businesses and investors.

In conclusion, the development of the New Blue Area in the Bahria Business District is a highly anticipated project that is expected to have a significant impact on Islamabad’s real estate market. The development offers modern facilities, state-of-the-art infrastructure, and a prime location, making it an ideal investment opportunity for businesses and investors looking to expand their operations in the city.