Shop for a flat, get a shop free

AHMEDABAD: It’s raining deals and discounts in the city’s property market. A car with a bungalow and furniture with a flat are passé. Now, pay for an apartment and get a shop of almost the same size. A property show for the Muslim community ‘Ummat’, which began in the city on Friday, had discounts and freebies galore for buyers.
The first-of-its-kind show in the city has more than 22 developers showcasing their residential and commercial projects in Muslim-dominated pockets in areas like Vatva, Sarkhej, Juhapura, Paldi and Ramol.
Sohail Ghoghary, who has a scheme near Vishala Circle, says, “Muslim community members are not used to property shows, so we thought of giving them an attractive deal. For those who pay in 60 days we are giving a shop of almost of the same size with a 2 or 3 bhk flat.”
The developers at the show said that there is huge demand in the Muslim community for properties, especially for apartments.
“There are a handful of areas in Ahmedabad where a Muslim can purchase a flat. While there is an oversupply in premium segment in most Hindu-dominated areas, for Muslims there are a few schemes and demand is high,” said Parvez Rangooni, who has launched a hi-end 600-flat residential scheme with a mall near Prahaladnagar. Many developers are offering spot discounts to those who book at the show.
“The real estate market for Muslims had remained untapped. For this show, we only selected schemes which had all necessary permissions in place,” said Ali Hussain, the show organizer.
“Several developers wanted to tap Muslim investors at the show but were afraid that having a stall here would upset their clientele in other communities. But, we are working towards bring ‘Sadbhavana’ between communities, at least in the real estate market, and next year hope see more participation,” said Hussain.