B
Bhavna Desai
posted on 18 MaySompura property hidden charges are ridiculous
Two years ago I'd have laughed at these prices. I'm finally done with renting, looking at Sompura. But the hidden charges from builders after the initial quote are insane. PLC, floor rise, club fees... it adds lakhs! Is this normal for Bangalore, or can I negotiate these down?
#sompura#hidden-charges#builder-negotiation#first-time-buyer
Comments
It's definitely normal for Bangalore, not just Sompura. I saw similar issues even in areas like Akshayanagar. The key is to get a detailed, itemized quote for the *total* cost, including all statutory charges, before you even consider booking. Don't rely on verbal assurances. Also, check reviews of the builder's past projects – if they have a history of adding charges post-agreement, it's a huge red flag. Better to walk away than get stuck with a bad deal and endless headaches.
I've been tracking Sompura for a while. The base price per sqft is around 5500-6500 for decent projects, but with all these extras – PLC, floor rise, amenities, registration, GST – it quickly shoots up to 8000-9000 per sqft. It feels like a bait-and-switch. Is there any scope to negotiate these 'extra' charges, or are they non-negotiable fixed components? I heard some people managed to get a waiver on club membership or a small discount on PLC.
Waiver on club membership is rare these days, but you can try. Discounts on PLC are even rarer. Builders are very rigid.
Negotiation is definitely possible, but it depends on the builder and how badly they want to close the deal. Focus on the total 'all-inclusive' price, not just the base rate. Ask for a complete breakdown of every single charge, including registration, legal fees, and even future maintenance estimates, BEFORE you sign anything. Sometimes they'll budge on one charge if you push hard enough, especially for things like club fees.
While I agree some builders are shady, not all charges are 'hidden' or negotiable. PLC (Preferential Location Charges) for corner flats or higher floors, or even club membership fees, are usually standard. They add value to the property. The issue is when these aren't disclosed upfront or are inflated beyond reasonable limits. Negotiation on these is tough, but you can try to get a better deal on the base price per sqft.
My experience was even worse. I was looking at a project near Aavalahalli, just off Sompura main road. The builder promised possession in 2022, but abhi tak kuch pata nahi. Every time I ask, they show me some new 'hidden charge' or 'delay penalty' clause. I've already paid 30% and now I'm stuck. Builder ka naam nahi lena chahta but be very careful with projects that seem 'too good to be true' in the initial quotes. Always check their RERA history and past projects.
Sahi keh rahe ho. Builders are desperate right now because of the slight market slowdown and increased interest rates. They try to recoup costs through these 'hidden' charges. It's a common tactic in Bangalore's current market conditions, especially for projects that are struggling to sell.
Oh no, that's terrible! Is that project RERA registered? You should file a complaint if they're not delivering.
Bhai, totally relate! I thought I was the only one. Sompura mein ek project dekha tha, initial quote sunke laga chalo theek hai. But jab final breakup aaya, floor rise aur car parking ke naam pe itne paise maang liye, dimag kharab ho gaya. Lagta hai yeh builders ka naya tareeka hai first-time buyers ko phasaane ka. Is this really the new normal for Bangalore?
Which builder are you talking about in Sompura? Maybe we can collectively avoid them. Any specific projects to watch out for?
Haan yaar, same pinch! Maintenance charges bhi alag se pakda dete hain jo pehle batate hi nahi. It's a nightmare.