Real Estate Journeys

This week on Real Estate Journeys, we dive into one of the most misunderstood yet most critical — aspects of Indian real estate: taxes, audits, and financial structuring.We’re joined by CA Neelesh Khandelwal, Partner at Shah Khandelwal Jain & Associates, a Pune-based Chartered Accountancy firm with a legacy of over 50 years. The firm advises real estate developers, corporates, and high-net-worth individuals across India, with a strong reputation for clean books, compliance-driven growth, and long-term financial discipline.With decades of hands-on experience working closely with developers and homebuyers, Neelesh sir brings rare clarity to complex topics like capital gains, GST, entity structuring, audits, and compliance pitfalls — areas where small mistakes can silently cost crores over time.Beyond numbers, this conversation explores how financial decisions shape the sustainability of real estate businesses, why shortcuts eventually hurt scalability, and what both homebuyers and developers must get right from Day 1.This episode is especially valuable if you are:• Buying a home• Developing real estate• Planning to enter the real estate business• Or want to understand the financial reality behind projects🎯 What You’ll Learn in This Episode✅ Tax benefits and capital gains explained for homebuyers✅ Old vs new tax regime clarity (₹15–16 lakh income scenarios)✅ Why “bank-approved” doesn’t always mean safe✅ How auditors evaluate developers’ books✅ Cash flow vs profit — what actually keeps developers alive✅ GST myths and current project economics✅ Choosing the right entity structure✅ Audit mistakes, black money consequences & long-term risks✅ Financial habits that separate disciplined developers from the rest⏱️ Timestamps(00:00) – Introduction(00:40) – Start of the podcast(01:10) – Early life & upbringing(05:42) – Should children follow the same profession?(07:20) – Major changes in the firm over the years(15:20) – EY acquisition offer(21:58) – Tax benefits for homebuyers(27:08) – Old tax regime vs new tax regime(28:20) – ₹15 lakh income perspective(30:30) – Husband & wife buying a house jointly – benefits(32:30) – ₹16 lakh income: husband–wife scenario(34:03) – Was the new tax regime a good decision?(34:33) – Capital gains explained(39:46) – Indexation for capital gains(43:48) – Capital gains time frame(46:51) – Maximum cap on capital gains(47:26) – Buying property individually vs jointly(48:17) – Most common tax mistakes homebuyers make(52:19) – First things to analyse in a builder’s file(58:00) – Biggest share in a project: the government(01:02:00) – Key financial metrics for a developer(01:07:10) – Profit vs cash flow: what matters more?(01:08:00) – Profitable on paper but actually in loss(01:09:20) – GST input tax credit(01:14:08) – Best entity structure for a developer starting out(01:19:00) – Factors to consider while choosing an entity(01:22:43) – Developers setting up offices overseas(01:28:14) – Common audit mistakes made by developers(01:30:13) – Long-term impact of black money(01:33:59) – Financial advice for young developers(01:35:40) – Habits of financially disciplined developers(01:41:30) – Advice to keep finances in control(01:42:40) – Quick Fun Round👉 Follow Real Estate Journeys for more real-world insightsInstagram: @realestatejourneysLinkedIn: / ashwinmaheshrathi#RealEstateJourneys #NeeleshKhandelwal #RealEstateTaxes #HomebuyersIndia#RealEstateDevelopers #CapitalGains #GSTinRealEstate #AuditAndCompliance#IndianRealEstate #FinancialDiscipline #PropertyBuyingIndia #PodcastEpisode

This week on Real Estate Journeys, we’re joined by a leader who redefines what it means to build with vision, values, and versatility —Mr. Ashish Malpani, Director at the Malpani Group.With a legacy spanning over 60 years, the Malpani Group is one of India’s most diversified and respected business families — making its mark across:🏗️ Real Estate🌿 Renewable Energy🏫 Education🛍️ FMCG🎢 And iconic entertainment ventures like Imagicaa and Wet N JoyBut behind the large-scale operations lies a deeply family-oriented leader — someone who continues to lead with an ever-learning mindset, a commitment to construction quality, and a benchmark-setting approach in commercial real estate.The Malpani family is a model for how generational businesses can thrive in India — with Mr. Ashish Malpani at the heart of its next chapter.This episode is packed with insights on:✅ Leadership with humility✅ Balancing scale with legacy✅ Learning, even after success✅ How to build right — in both structure and cultureTimestamps(00:00) – Trailer and Introduction(03:01) – Story of Malpani Group(08:46) – Diversification into other industries(10:09) – Water park business(14:39) – Takeover of Imagicaa(17:03) – Structuring of the business(19:05) – Family-focused business(20:57) – Criteria for family members to enter the business(28:22) – Discussing business at the dinner table(31:36) – Holding equal share of family members(32:32) – Timeline for idea testing for family members(33:48) – Conflict resolution in family members(36:36) – Financial matrix (IRR, ROI)(42:12) – Design aspects you review as a builder, owner(46:11) – Decision-making process to choose a contractor(50:14) – If you have the best contractor, do you still need to monitor?(54:31) – Finishing at Malpani buildings(58:21) – Finishing on another level(1:01:01) – Quality control and safety team(1:06:59) – Cleanliness at an under-construction site(1:09:46) – BIM technology(1:16:57) – Project names after scientists(1:21:09) – Buying Imagicaa(1:27:38) – Any chance of bringing Disneyland to India(1:28:22) – Upskilling your workforce(1:32:05) – Goal setting of your team / performance management(1:35:29) – Why doesn’t KPI work in real estate(1:38:06) – Community marriage(1:41:43) – Favourite book(1:44:43) – How does a day in your life look like(1:46:25) – Quick 5 (Rapid fire)👉 Follow Malpani Group:Website: https://www.malpaniestates.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/malpaniestates/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/malpani-group-real-estate-div/👉 Follow us on Social Media for Updates!Instagram: / @realestatejourneysFacebook: / yqyrrtd7tdorbdukLinkedIn: / ashwinmaheshrathi#AshishMalpani #MalpaniGroup #RealEstateJourneys #FamilyBusiness #Imagicaa #WetNJoy #CommercialRealEstate #LegacyLeadership #ConstructionQuality #LearningMindset #PodcastGuest #IndianEntrepreneurs

This week on Real Estate Journeys, we’re joined by Mr.Anand Singhania , Managing Director of Avinash Group the largest real estate developer in Central India.With over 28+ years of experience, Mr. Anand has led Avinash Group in delivering 59+ landmark residential, commercial, and retail projects, transforming the skyline of cities like Raipur, Bilaspur, and Bhilai.From scaling a local venture into a regional real estate empire, to navigating challenges and building with purpose —Mr. Anand shares it all.Get ready to learn how to start, grow, and scale any business, even without prior experience in the industry. Are you dreaming of starting a business but have no background, knowledge, or connections?This episode shows you how to make it happenWe sat down with Mr. Anand Singhania, MD of Avinash Group to break down every step of the journey:Learn: How to understand a new industry from scratchIdeate: How to find the right business idea for youStart: How to take your first steps even with little money or experienceGrow: How to build a brand people trustScale: How to expand your business beyond just one successIf you're a young student, an aspiring entrepreneur, a real estate professional, or someone who just wants to build something big — this conversation will show you exactly how to make it happen.

Join us for an exciting episode of Real Estate Journeys featuring Siddharth Vasudevan, an industry leader in construction costing, business strategy, and real estate development.In this episode, we dive deep into Siddharth’s journey, from his early education and joining the family business to leading Vascon Engineers Ltd., a listed company with a legacy of landmark projects.Mr Siddharth shares expert insights on construction costing, the biggest cost centers in real estate, and how developers can optimize project budgets while maximizing profits. We also explore topics like government vs private projects, cash flow management, EPC business, and the future of construction technology.With decades of experience, Mr Siddharth provides practical strategies for developers, engineers, and business leaders to scale their businesses and navigate the evolving real estate industry.

oin us for an exciting episode of Real Estate Journeys featuring Dr. Adv. Harshul Savla, a record-holding entrepreneur, author, and thought leader in the real estate industry. In this episode, we explore Dr. Savla’s inspiring journey, from his early education and corporate experiences to achieving world records and excelling in real estate development. Dr. Savla shares invaluable insights into navigating the South Mumbai real estate market, analyzing high-value projects, and selling luxury homes. We also dive into emerging real estate investment trends like REITs (Real Estate Investment Trusts), data centers, Airbnb opportunities, and the impact of the Coastal Road project on Mumbai's market dynamics. With his diverse expertise, Dr. Savla provides a fresh perspective on alternative real estate investments, project analysis, and what it takes to succeed in one of the most competitive markets in India. Whether you're a developer, investor, or real estate enthusiast, this episode offers invaluable insights into Mumbai’s evolving real estate landscape and the future of alternative investments. 👉 Follow Dr. Adv. Harshul Savla: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-harshul-savla-d-litt-a826a21a8/ 👉 Follow us on Social Media for Updates! Instagram: @realestatejourneys Facebook: @realestatejourneys LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashwinmaheshrathi/ 👉 Don’t forget to subscribe for more insights into real estate trends and success stories!

Join us for an insightful episode of Real Estate Journeys featuring Mr. Suhas Jangle, founder of SJ Contracts, a leading name in Pune's construction and contracting industry. With decades of experience in civil engineering and project execution, Mr. Jangle has transformed the contracting space through innovative practices and a commitment to excellence. In this episode, we explore his journey from starting his first contracting project to establishing SJ Contracts as a benchmark in the industry. Gain insights into the challenges contractors face, the role of technology in construction, and the skills essential for succeeding in the contracting business.

Join us for an insightful episode of Real Estate Journeys featuring Mr. Abhishek Gupta, co-founder of CRE Matrix and a pioneer in real estate data analytics in India. With a background in software engineering and an MBA from the USA, Mr. Gupta brings a unique blend of technology and real estate expertise. In this episode, we delve into his journey from analytics to PropTech, the founding of CRE Matrix, and how data is transforming decision-making in real estate. Real Estate Journeys Episode 6.

Join us for an inspiring episode of Real Estate Journeys with Mr. Shantilal Kataria, Managing Director of Aditya Builders Pune and a prominent leader in the real estate industry with over 45 years of experience. From shaping the industry through his work with CREDAI to representing the fraternity before the Joint Parliamentary Committee on RERA, Mr. Kataria shares invaluable insights into the past, present, and future of real estate in India. Real Estate Journeys Episode 5. Whether you're a budding developer, a seasoned professional, or simply passionate about real estate, this episode offers a treasure trove of knowledge and motivation from a true industry pioneer. 👉 Follow Shantilal Kataria and Aditya Builders: https://www.adityabuilders.com/  / adityabuilderspune   👉 Follow us on Social Media for Updates! Instagram:   / realestatejourneys   Facebook:   / yqyrrtd7tdorbduk   LinkedIn:   / ashwinmaheshrathi   👉 Don’t forget to subscribe for more insights into the real estate industry!

Join us for an enlightening conversation with Adv. Rajiv Patel, a seasoned real estate lawyer and founder of Rajiv Patel and Associates. With extensive expertise in property conveyancing, regulatory compliance, and estate planning, Mr. Patel sheds light on the legal intricacies of real estate in Pune and beyond. From digitization of land records to women’s property rights and estate planning, this episode offers invaluable insights for developers, homebuyers, and legal enthusiasts alike. Real Estate Journeys Episode 4.

Join us for an insightful conversation with Mr. Jaiprakash Pravinchandra Shroff, Chairman of Shroff Group, as we explore his decades-long journey in real estate development and construction. With a background in civil engineering and extensive experience in promoting skilled labor initiatives, Mr. Shroff shares his vision for sustainable growth and innovation in the industry. From pioneering skilling programs like Kushal with Credai Pune Metro to leading as Chairman of the IGBC Pune Chapter, his story is a testament to commitment and leadership in Indian real estate. Real Estate Journeys Episode 3.

Join us for an enlightening discussion with Pranati Shroff Munot, architect, sustainability advocate, and co-founder of Sustain and Save, as we delve into green building practices and their impact on sustainable development. With extensive experience working with organizations like Pune Municipal Corporation and IKEA, Pranati brings valuable insights on green certifications, eco-friendly architecture, and practical ways to integrate sustainability in real estate. Real Estate Journeys Episode 2. Whether you're a developer, homebuyer, or sustainability enthusiast, this episode offers valuable insights into green building practices and practical tips for sustainable living. Join us to learn how the real estate industry is evolving towards a greener future! 👉 Follow us on Social Media for Updates! Instagram: /realestatejourneys Facebook: /yqyrrtd7tdorbduk LinkedIn: /ashwinmaheshrathi Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5ndj40tv2ZRE3BwhqG7DBf 👉 Don't forget to subscribe for more insights into sustainable real estate practices!

Join us for an in-depth discussion with Mr. Akhil Agarwal, Managing Director of Siddhivinayak Group, as we explore the intricacies of RERA and its impact on the real estate industry. With over three decades of experience in real estate and hospitality, Mr. Agarwal brings valuable insights on regulations, project compliance, and the future of real estate in India. Whether you're a homebuyer, developer, or industry enthusiast, this episode will give you a thorough understanding of RERA’s role in the real estate sector and practical advice from a seasoned expert. 👉 Follow us on Social Media for Updates! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/realestatejourneys/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/yQYRRTd7tDorBdUK/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashwinmaheshrathi/ 👉 Don't forget to subscribe for more insights into the real estate industry!