Green Home Guide: Easy Energy-Saving Tips for an Eco-Friendly Living

With deteriorating environment becoming a cause of concern, the human race is now working towards conserving it by using technology and other measures. Though not many of us could afford the expensive technologies that would help save energy, Trimurty lists some easy home hacks that could help you do your bit for the Mother Earth:

Trimurty’s Top Energy-Saving Tips

Here are Trimurty’s top energy-saving tips to make your home greener and more efficient:

Turn it off

  • Turn off lights, fans, and electronic devices when not in use.
  • Let natural light brighten your home instead of relying on artificial lighting.
  • Close doors and vents in unused rooms to maintain indoor temperatures.
  • Keep windows open for cross-ventilation and fresh air circulation.

Insulate & do it yourself

This would facilitate lowering of energy usage by up to 30 per cent. Insulation makes best use of sunlight. Some do-it-yourself (DIY) steps include plastic cover or a draft stopper which restricts cold air. Installing overhangs and retractable awnings blocks sunlight from enters the house, thereby facilitating energy conservation. High-performance windows, screens and films help saving energy while also protecting the furnishings from the ultraviolet or UV rays.

It’s time to change

Investing in energy-saving appliances reduces electricity consumption by up to 75%. Start small and upgrade step by step:

  • Switch to LED bulbs—they last longer and use 80% less energy.
  • Replace old appliances with energy-efficient models (look for BEE Star Ratings).
  • Opt for smart power strips to prevent energy wastage from devices on standby mode.

Dry them out!

Make your own DIY clothing line at home for air-drying the clothes. This makes for a practical way of saving energy by ensuring minimum usage of a washing machine’s dryer.

Cover & cook

Did you know that simple cooking habits can help reduce fuel and electricity consumption?

  • Cover pots and pans while cooking to trap heat and cook food faster.
  • Use pressure cookers and induction stoves for quicker, energy-efficient cooking.
  • Cook in bulk and reheat leftovers instead of cooking multiple small meals.

Cold water only

Did you know the water heater in your home is one of the appliances that consume heavy electricity? Try to consume cold water in activities like laundry, cleaning utensils, cars, or even floors. Thus, cutting down the heavy usage of water heaters, and in turn lower electricity bills.

Final Thoughts

Making small energy-efficient changes in your daily routine can significantly lower your electricity bills while helping the environment. Trimurty encourages homeowners to adopt sustainable practices that create greener and smarter homes.

Start today—because saving energy is saving the planet! 🌍💚

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. How can I reduce my electricity bill at home?
    Turn off unused appliances, switch to LED bulbs, insulate your home, and use energy-efficient appliances.
  2. Do LED bulbs really save electricity?
    Yes! LED bulbs consume up to 80% less energy and last 25 times longer than traditional bulbs.
  3. How does insulation help save energy?
    Proper insulation traps heat in winter and keeps homes cool in summer, reducing the need for heating and air conditioning.

NRI Housing Loan Guide: A Step-by-Step Process for Buying Property in India

Non-Resident Indians can avail financing assistance in the form of NRI housing loans, for purchasing residential properties in India.

Who is Considered an NRI?

According to the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) guidelines, an NRI is defined as:

  • An Indian citizen with a valid Indian passport.
  • Someone who stays abroad for employment, business, or vocational reasons, or under circumstances suggesting a long-term or indefinite stay.

Click here to check residential and commercial projects in Jaipur.

NRI Housing Loan – Key Highlights

Here are the salient points and useful information for NRIs regarding the process of receiving a home loan.

  • The applicant must be an Indian passport holder.
  • Loan can be availed for up to Rs 1 crore or 85% of the cost of the property, whichever is lesser.
  • Loan eligibility is decided based on the repayment capacity of the individual. Repayment capacity takes into consideration income, age, qualification, number of dependents, other income, amounts and a few other items.
  • For loans between 5 and 10 years, rates of interest vary from 7.75% to 9%.
  • Repayment period ranges from 5 to 20 years or on superannuation or on completing 60 years of age.
  • The loan is repaid in the form of equated monthly installments (EMIs).
  • The security for the loan would be the equitable mortgage of the property financed. This is created by the deposit of the original title deeds of the property with the HFI.
  • Local guarantors are also required in case of some institutions.
  • Copies of the following documents have to be submitted along with the application for the loan to the institution:
    • Employment contract
    • Latest salary slip
    • Latest work permit
    • Visa stamped on the passport
    • Power of Attorney to a local individual
    • Receipt of payments made for purchase of the property
    • Agreement of Sale
  • A salaried applicant should be abroad for at least a year, and a self-employed applicant for 3 years.

Conclusion

As an NRI, buying property in India through a housing loan can be a smooth and rewarding process with the right information. By understanding the loan eligibility criteria, interest rates, and required documents, you’ll be better prepared for your property purchase journey.

For more information, explore Trimurty’s residential and commercial projects in Jaipur.

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. What documents are needed for an NRI housing loan?
    You’ll need an Indian passport, employment contract, salary slip, work permit, and other documents verifying your financial standing and property transaction.
  2. How much loan can an NRI avail for property purchase?
    NRIs can avail loans up to Rs 1 crore or 85% of the property cost, whichever is lower.
  3. How long is the repayment period for an NRI housing loan?
    The repayment period can range from 5 to 20 years, depending on the applicant’s age and employment status.

Eco-Friendly Air Purifiers: 5 Indoor Plants for Clean and Fresh Air

Apart from cleaning the air in your home, indoor plants are easy to grow as well.

While many of us have been resorting to installing air purifiers in our homes, not many find this financial viable to have. A more easy-on-pocket and green way to counter air pollution is to have indoor plants. Moreover, these plants also keep the air in the home cool, along with creating a de-stressing environment.

Common Indoor Plants For Your Home

Here are a few common indoor plants that work as natural air purifiers:

1. Tulsi (Holy Basil)

Tulsi, revered in Hindu mythology as the favorite plant of Lord Vishnu, is not only a spiritually significant plant but also an excellent air purifier.

  • Benefits: Purifies the air and adds fragrance to the surroundings.
  • Uses: Tulsi leaves can be used to make teas and beverages, making it both a decorative and practical plant.
  • Care: Easy to grow in a small pot indoors.

2. Golden Pothos (Money Plant)

Golden Pothos, also known as the Money Plant, is a low-maintenance plant that thrives indoors and acts as a natural air purifier.

  • Benefits: It helps remove toxins like formaldehyde from the air.
  • Care: Ideal for beginners, as it requires little effort and grows quickly. Place it near windows for optimal growth.

3. Aloe Vera

Aloe Vera, a succulent cactus, is a powerful plant that helps detoxify the air by absorbing harmful gases.

  • Benefits: It absorbs chemicals like benzene from paints and construction materials.
  • Uses: Aloe Vera gel can be used for soothing burns, cuts, and as a moisturizer.
  • Care: Low-maintenance and space-efficient, making it perfect for small spaces.

4. Snake Plant (Mother-in-Law’s Tongue)

The Snake Plant is known for its ability to purify the air by converting carbon dioxide to oxygen, even at night!

  • Benefits: Excellent for bedrooms, as it works overnight to refresh the air.
  • Care: Requires minimal light and attention, making it perfect for low-light areas in your home.

5. Bamboo Plant

Bamboo is a superstar when it comes to purifying the air and has earned a spot on NASA’s list of best air-purifying plants.

  • Benefits: Absorbs harmful toxins such as formaldehyde and benzene.
  • Care: Needs a bit more attention, especially when it comes to water requirements. Keep it in the shade, away from direct sunlight.

Conclusion

Instead of investing in expensive air purifiers, consider adding these eco-friendly indoor plants to your home. Not only will they help improve air quality, but they also offer aesthetic value and reduce stress levels. Start with a few plants, and enjoy cleaner, fresher air naturally.

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Which indoor plant is the best air purifier?
    All the plants mentioned, like Aloe Vera, Tulsi, and the Snake Plant, are excellent air purifiers, each targeting different toxins in the air.
  2. How do plants purify the air?
    Plants absorb harmful gases and release oxygen, improving the air quality and creating a healthier environment.
  3. Can indoor plants replace air purifiers?
    While they may not completely replace air purifiers, indoor plants like Golden Pothos and Bamboo can significantly reduce indoor air pollution.

Upcoming Indian Real Estate Attractions for NRIs: 6 Key Trends to Watch

Indian Reality Sector has always attracted NRIs towards it, but over the following years their interest have seen a shift towards some specif themes. In the following article will be discussing six major areas where NRIs have shown major interest.

  • Green Homes
  • Affordable Homes
  • Smart Homes
  • Senior Living
  • Townships
  • Redevelopment Projects

6 Key Real Estate Trends to Watch

Here is a list of emerging themes in real estate in India which might attract investors:

Green homes

Green homes, or eco-friendly homes, are gaining significant popularity in India. Developers offering such properties are catering to environmentally conscious buyers by incorporating sustainable practices and green technologies.

  • Why NRIs are interested: The premium amenities and eco-conscious design appeal to NRIs, especially those from countries where green technology is already widely used.
  • What to expect: Solar panels, energy-efficient appliances, rainwater harvesting systems, and materials that reduce environmental impact.

Townships

Townships  and similar themes had a good run in the last decade. Developers in India are coming up with more such themes to build cities and parks. The Future City in Jaipur is one example of such projects. Given the variety and scope that a single project can bring, these development opportunities are all set to attract investors from abroad.

Affordable homes

The demand for affordable housing in India is growing, driven by the government’s “Housing for All by 2022” initiative.

  • Why NRIs are interested: Western companies have been pioneering affordable housing technologies like modular housing and pre-fabricated construction for years.
  • What to expect: Innovations in low-cost construction techniques and a focus on providing homes to the urban poor, offering NRIs an opportunity to invest in this fast-growing sector.

Smart homes

The Centre in over the past has released a list of the development of 100 smart cities across states. The Smart City Mission is a multi-billion-dollar opportunity for design, information technology services and construction companies across the globe.

Senior living

India is witnessing the rise of senior living communities, offering a comfortable and supportive environment for older adults.

  • Why NRIs are interested: As the population ages, there is a growing demand for specialized housing with healthcare services. This is a concept already popular in Western countries, and NRIs see it as an opportunity for investment.
  • What to expect: Senior-friendly amenities such as healthcare facilities, assistance with daily tasks, and social programs.

Redevelopment projects

The Centre’s push for affordable homes also includes slum redevelopment projects. Such projects present a unique opportunity where old and dilapidated buildings at prime locations are taken over by a developer, and then re-built into homes which, while housing original owners, also accommodate commercial entities.

Conclusion

The Indian real estate market continues to evolve, and NRIs are keen on emerging opportunities in sectors such as Green Homes, Smart Cities, Affordable Housing, and more. 

With the government’s support for infrastructure development, these themes present lucrative investment opportunities for NRIs looking to diversify their portfolios.

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. What are the key real estate trends for NRIs in India?
    Key trends include Green Homes, Smart Homes, and Affordable Housing, all of which promise strong growth and investment potential.
  2. Are Smart Cities a good investment for NRIs?
    Yes, the development of Smart Cities presents a billion-dollar opportunity for NRIs looking to invest in tech-driven, futuristic real estate.
  3. What are redevelopment projects in India?
    Redevelopment projects involve upgrading old buildings into modern homes and commercial spaces, especially in prime locations, presenting high investment potential.

Green Buildings: A Breath of Fresh Air Amid Rising Pollution

Green Buildings: It’s been all over the newspaper, news channels and has even become a household discussion topic. Yes, we are talking about the recent air pollution monster that has invaded the entire NCR. This makes us think that while a home buyer takes several things like amenities, neighborhood, quality, location (in city) into consideration while making a purchase decision, they should also consider the city based on the level of pollution.

The Growing Concern of Air Pollution

All sorts of apprehensions hovered overhead when one decides to buy a home in the big city. But pollution was not one of them. You may have been taking great pains to save enough money to make the down-payment for a house in the suburbs (which are equally smothered by the smog). However, the current state of breathlessness forces you to rethink. A fact check would only confirm your worst fears.

The con of buying a home in such cities is that the toxic air attacks the lungs, making residents swoon, almost. The rule of survival demands one to invest in an air purifier to be able to breathe, and to keep one’s eyes from burning.

According to a report by the World Bank, air pollution is the fourth biggest fatal risk factor in the world, and kills more people than tobacco, alcohol or drug abuse in most countries. India, along with China, also recorded the highest number of deaths due to air pollution in that year.

These data we may so far have used only to look intelligent are now becoming personal concerns. While blocking our vision physically, the toxic haze surrounding the national capital may prove to be an eye opener. The cost of living in a big city is not only monetary. Look for the not-so-obvious sacrifices you could make in order to enjoy urban life.

The Solution: Green Buildings

To buy homes with developers that specialize in green buildings and have affiliation from a recognized body. Or avoid investing in cities that rank high on air pollution scale. Trimurty builders are one such Jaipur based developer’s with several IGBC certified green buildings. Investing with such developers assures a healthy future for your family.

Why Choose Green Buildings?

  • Improved Air Quality: Green buildings are designed with features like better ventilation and use of non-toxic materials, helping purify indoor air.
  • Energy Efficiency: These buildings use energy-efficient systems, reducing the need for external devices like air purifiers.
  • Sustainability: Green buildings contribute to environmental conservation by minimizing energy use and reducing carbon footprints.
  • Health Benefits: With better air quality and reduced exposure to harmful pollutants, residents enjoy a healthier lifestyle.

Conclusion

Air pollution is a growing concern for home buyers in India. The solution lies in green buildings—homes designed to offer a healthier, eco-friendly living environment. By choosing green buildings, home buyers can protect their families from the harmful effects of pollution while investing in a sustainable future.

If you’re considering buying a home in a high-pollution city, look for developers who specialize in green buildings and offer affiliations with recognized bodies like IGBC. Developers like Trimurty Builders are helping pave the way for healthier, more sustainable living options in cities like Jaipur.

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. What are green buildings?
    Green buildings are eco-friendly homes designed with sustainable materials, energy-efficient systems, and advanced ventilation to improve indoor air quality.
  2. Why should NRIs invest in green buildings?
    Green buildings offer a healthier and more sustainable living environment, making them a great choice for NRIs looking to invest in properties with long-term benefits.
  3. Are green buildings more expensive than regular homes?
    While green buildings may have a slightly higher initial cost, the long-term benefits, including energy savings and better health, make them a worthwhile investment.