Sneha Koirala

The dramatic growth of cities is seen as one of the prominent characteristics of developing countries.
Kathmandu is an example of such spreading urbanisation and suburbia of modern houses has transformed the traditional landscape of the valley with soaring land values. Although the quality of housing in Kathmandu is low for a vast majority of the population, the incidence of extremely poor living conditions or existence of squatters in urban areas is fairly rare.

Adding to this, the formal housing trend that calls for the hiring of architects, engineers and contractors to build houses is rapidly growing in the city. From high income groups to lower middle class, people are seeking professional help to build and groom their nest. There are usually two types of options preferred by urbanites -purchasing land and getting professional help to build their dream home; or buying a readymade one from the variety of options provided by housing companies.

Amar Lawati, a resident of Civil Homes Phase II at Kalanki, says, “I preferred a housing company's product than building my own for several reasons. The first was security and safety along with good neighbourhood and attractive design. The houses are properly designed and are even claimed to withstand minor to medium earthquakes. Getting one's house built is a Herculean task, and choosing a readymade one saves time as you can pick one that appeals to you without much waiting. It is a reliable and hassle-free method.“

Lawati further shares, “However, it has its drawbacks. It can't be exactly the way you dreamed it to be. You have to adjust according to what is available. So, it is not for those who have harboured special wishes for a dream home. Moreover, though I appreciate the architectural work, the quality of raw materials used is low. There are problems of cracks on the walls. I bought this house for Rs 12.6 million and in this same neighbourhood, you can acquire land and build your dream home in about Rs 10 million. So you cannot deny that my choice is a bit expensive. But I would still suggest housing companies' projects as they are the best that money can buy for long-term value.“

Along with the diversity of the market, one can also choose from a variety of options available to erect one's dream home.
Arjun Kadel, chairman of Kadel Nirman Sewa Private Limited says, “Nepalis still prefer to build homes on their own, though formal help is now available and on the rise as people are conscious about their investments these days. Housing companies with apartments and residential neighbourhood set high profit margins, so hiring a professional contractor can be 20 to 30 per cent cheaper on total cost. Moreover, one can get the house built according to one's demands and vision with proper architectural backing.“

He adds, “Such contractors estimate the total cost of your houses with designs according to your budget. They hand over the keys of your house after total completion and finishing of wiring, plumbing and colouring too. It allows you to be carefree and get on with your regular schedule without spending your day supervising labourers. Such contractors even provide professional consultancy for interior designing. This option is chosen by a majority of Nepalis and I think this is what gives residents here a satisfaction of owning a house.“

Leading housing companies also offer consultancy on such issues. Moreover, one can approach experts in the field through individual contacts. Shalindra GC, marketing manager of Oriental Builders and Developers, says, “We provide readymade houses and apartments. However, we also serve as consultants for individual and private projects. We can provide assistance in building. For contracting private companies like us, one needs to pay VAT and other taxes so people approach contractors individually. We provide all facilities that complete a house and even assist in interior designing upon request. For constructing a two bedroom house on already available land, it costs around Rs 1.5 to Rs 1.6 million.“

He opines, “The selection of a house depends upon the budget, as raw materials and services are similar to the one offered by individual contractors. Money can give shape to what clients want and their requirements should get the top priority.“

With availability of multiple options, the home of one's dreams depends on time and budget. The infrastructure and environment could be another contributing factor. But taking professional help is on the rise, which indeed is a positive aspect.

source: Koirala, Sneha(2011),"Formal Housing on the Rise", The Himalayan Times, 22 August 2011
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