NEW DELHI: Rentals for office space in top Indian cities are firming up due to increased demand, as per an industry study that suggests revival in one of the few real estate segments yet to come out of a slowdown.
There has been moderate quarterly rise in office rentals across Grade A projects in the central business districts of Delhi (4%), Mumbai (3%), Bangalore (3%) and Pune (4%) with Kolkata clocking the highest increase (10%), according to a report by commercial real estate services firm CB Richard Ellis India .
The study for the three months ended September that covered top office space rentals across Delhi NCR , Mumbai, Bangalore, Chennai, Hyderabad, Pune and Kolkata found rentals in Chennai and Hyderabad remained static compared with the quarter ended June.
"A large number of companies are reviving their expansion plans, while demand is also increasing for
SEZ office space. This is indicative enough of a revival of demand and substantial improvement in the market activity across the country," stated the report.
There has been considerable increase in the transaction volume in almost most metros, including Pune and Kolkata. Hyderabad is expected to witness higher rentals because of increased demand for commercial office space by year end, added the report. Anshuman Magazine, managing director at CB Richards Ellis said, "Rental increase will remain in check in the medium term due to the ongoing supply."
In the top cities, occupiers and companies look to shift to secondary markets and alternate locations for several reasons such as location advantage, metro connectivity, quality construction and infrastructure, more efficient buildings and competitive rentals. "It is imperative for developers to take a cautious approach towards rental expectations during this rising yet fragile market," the report added.
Source : economictimes.indiatimes.com