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Build Young, Bargain Smart

Renovate, Rent, Resell

Creative Ways to Maximise Property Investments

Daily Sun Report, Dhaka

Published: 30 Dec 2024

Creative Ways to Maximise Property Investments

MD. Zahirul Islam

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In Bangladesh, where real estate is a cornerstone of financial security and a symbol of stability, the market offers unique opportunities for investors willing to think creatively. No matter whether the economy is slowing down or the trends are changing, property investments prove to be excellent investments for wealth. Due to rapid urbanisation, a rising middle class and changing buyer preferences, it holds significant potential for maximisation of returns with the “Renovate, Rent, Resell” strategy. This method maximises the potential of their properties to appeal in a vibrant and competitive market.

Here’s how you can adapt these ideas to the Bangladeshi context and turn your investments into profitable ventures.
Renovate: Breathing new life into your property
Renovation is one of the most effective ways to boost the value of your property. However, the approach needs to be smart and suited to local tastes and market demands.
Prioritise kitchen and bathroom upgrades
A modern, functional kitchen with clean, well-designed bathrooms remains one of the strongest selling points. Furthermore, your work could include the usage of attractive, durable tiles, the installation of modular kitchen cabinets, and even the installation of energy-efficient water heaters. Above all, it is usually the clean and functional kitchen that resonates with Bangladeshi families: it is the Centre of family activity.

Go green
As people become more aware of environmental issues, the go-green trend picks up speed. Considering a good aged roof garden, LED lights, along with good ventilation that assists in cooling a little more is well thought of these days: all the way from Dhaka to Chattogram. Such further improvements may help you in catching a nice buyer on your property.
Maximise space for multi-use living
In densely populated cities like Dhaka, it is critical to maximise small spaces. This could be in the form of an unused balcony converted into a small cosy sitting area, while built-in storage makes a small apartment seem much larger and much more convenient. These changes cater to a young family or a busy professional who takes an interest in a comfortable but compact living space.

 Improve curb appeal
First impressions matter here too. A freshly painted exterior, well-maintained common spaces, or a clean building lobby can elevate your property’s attractiveness. For independent homes, sprucing up the boundary wall or adding a decorative gate can leave a lasting impression on prospective buyers or renters.
Rent: Steady income in a dynamic market
Renting out property has long been a popular option in Bangladesh, especially in cities with high housing demand. By exploring new approaches, you can maximise rental income and attract better tenants.

Cater to student accommodation
With universities expanding in cities like Dhaka, Sylhet, and Rajshahi, the demand for affordable, safe housing for students is rising. A shared rental model with individual rooms and communal areas can yield consistent income. Providing furniture and basic amenities will make your property more appealing.

Offer fully furnished flats
There’s a growing demand for furnished flats among expatriates, professionals, and small families. Simple furnishings such as a bed, sofa, and dining set can significantly increase your rental yield. For added value, ensure the flat includes essentials like air conditioning, Wi-Fi connectivity, and backup power solutions.

Explore short-term rentals
In Bangladesh, platforms like Airbnb have gained global acceptance, especially in tourist destinations such as Cox's Bazar and Sylhet. So if your property is located in a well-placed destination, renting it out will give you good money. Make sure it is visually appealing and well-tended, and the guests will have nowhere to escape.

Target niche markets
You can condition your offer based on unique needs like pet-friendly apartments, which are a rarity in Bangladesh or accommodations for remote workers. By providing a workspace and offering fast internet, your property can definitely stand out for tech-savvy tenants.

Resell: Timing and presentation matter
Selling property at the right time and manner could mean the key difference between profits. The resale market for properties is common in Bangladesh and is comprehensively determined by timing, location, and the state of the property.

Understand the local market
Know market trends working in your area. If your property is located in an up-and-coming area, like Bashundhara or Purbachal, become a patient buyer. Once they're well established, wait for when infrastructure developments such as roads, schools, or shopping centres are completed. This will work to boost property value more than anything.
Stage your property for success
Many buyers decide based simply on their ability to visualise living in a house: Fresh paint, clean interiors, and neat furniture placement can make a world of difference. A house might be complemented by placing flowering plants or trees in the yard.

Use technology to market your property
The online search of most houses is very much reality now, and high-quality pictures with virtual tours will give your listing the much-needed edge. Make sure the unique selling points of your property are highlighted, such as proximity to local landmarks, the amount of natural light it attracts, or the presence of modern amenities. For large properties, drone footage can be a great way to showcase the entire property.

Offer flexible payment options
Currently, financing the property becomes a predicament for buyers in Bangladesh. Offering payment plans or aiding buyers to choose suitable home loan options will make your property attractive and affordable.

Creative tips for the Bangladeshi market
Invest in peripheral locations: Cities like Dhaka and Chattogram are expanding, with areas like Savar, Gazipur, and Karnaphuli showing promise. Early investments in these locations can result in high returns as demand grows.

Try “flip and hold”: Renovate and sell a property to fund another that you can hold and rent out. This approach combines short-term gains with long-term passive income.
Build relationships with contractors: Reliable contractors and craftsmen are essential for cost-effective renovations. Partnering with trustworthy local professionals ensures quality work without unnecessary delays.

Tap into community networks: Word-of-mouth recommendations remain powerful in Bangladesh. Build a reputation for offering well-maintained, fair-priced properties to attract loyal tenants or buyers.
To sum up, the “Renovate, Rent, Resell” strategy offers more than just money in the bank – it offers a way to reshape what we think property investments can be to satisfy local needs and global demands. Creative approaches can open up opportunity in challenging times, as is often the case during such periods in a country like Bangladesh, where real estate is strongly interlinked with cultural and economic aspirations. Focusing on simple renovations, addressing niche rental markets and timing a resale appropriately can help transform your property into a profitable endeavor. Whether you are running a single flat or a whole portfolio, when you couple vision with down to earth practicality, the possibilities are vast. With the constantly evolving urban landscape of Bangladesh comes the opening of so many possibilities for the courageous to take the plunge and innovate.

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