Why You Must Embrace Green Home Technologies?

Abdul Aziz Mondol

Small Business

Published on: 22 March 2016 Last Updated on: 29 July 2024

Why You Must Embrace Green Home Technologies?

Did you know? Buildings in India account for…

33% greenhouse emissions
38% energy consumption
30% landfill waste
12% water consumption

And, every year, built-up areas in the country grow by 10% with a whopping 700% increase in energy consumption!

It’s time to re-evaluate our priorities,

It’s time to give back to nature,

And for our children, it’s time to ensure that our homes do not destroy the world.

India has been a fascinating growth story. Our story of growth is also about stress on the environment and natural resources. Fragile ecosystems and endangered species are struggling amidst the fast-expanding concrete. However, there is a silver lining in every cloud. Staying true to the traditional ethos of living in harmony with nature, Indian real estate is welcoming new technologies and innovative architecture to ensure a sustainable future. New-age financial solutions and subsidies are likely to encourage the adoption of green technologies in the construction sector.

Your contribution, however small, is significant in creating an eco-friendly living space. Going green is an important milestone for your family where you create a positive environment for growth. It saves you lots of money as you pass down the lessons of conservation to the next generation and add to their inheritance. Green constructions and architecture are the flavors of our times and builders are incorporating environment-friendly and energy-efficient features like LED lights, waste management plants, urban forestry, natural ventilation, thermos bricks and many other design elements for your conservation and well-being.

Why do you need a green home?

Money, money, money

A green building creates many financial benefits for owners and tenants. Natural materials are compatible with the environment, while solar energy, proper ventilation, rainwater harvesting, water recycling, waste management, and foliage help to cut energy consumption and save large amounts of money for you. Tenants are clearly attracted to buildings which offer a reduction in everyday costs.

Environmentally safe with GRIHA

It feels great doing your bit to safeguard the environment. Buildings are responsible for one-third of greenhouse emissions and that portion can be reduced by 35%. Demand for high-quality, eco-friendly and energy-efficient real estate is growing across India. It applies to both, residential and commercial spaces. And with our urban air becoming a pollution hazard, it is imperative that as an Indian, you seek green alternatives to safeguard health, environment, and productivity. You can choose environment-friendly homes as per GRIHA (Green Rating for Integrated Habitat Assessment) rating. It evaluates how your home stands against accepted benchmarks of green buildings.

Better innovation

As an investor, you gain a higher yield from green buildings. The practice also spurs design and material innovation, which is important for our nation. The “green wave” has brought forth new technologies, understanding of ancient practices and ample research interest. Green buildings are using traditional material and recycling old materials to reduce our carbon footprint. Reduce, reuse and recycle: that’s the mantra sustaining your green home.

A great start-up culture

Grassroots awareness will drive greater adoption of green technologies. Rural artisans, cottage industries, and agriculture have felt a positive impact of the green drive. A new culture of entrepreneurs providing new solutions to builders is enriching the green economy.

Green buildings in India are becoming a part of the culture. You should be thrilled to know our country was ranked #3 on a list of 10 countries by the US Green Building Council (USGBC) for LEED outside the US. India today boasts of 1 billion square feet of green building area. With over 200 million square feet of commercial space and 45 million square feet of construction coming up, you can say without a doubt: The sky is our limit!

Apoorva Bharadwaj is a freelance blog writer. She has written blog posts largely catering to the real estate industry. Throughout these many years of her career as a blogger, she has kept up with changing trends in the real estate industry. She has written many blog posts on why the real estate prices are skyrocketing in major metros, how to choose the right real estate agents, about new apartments in metros, etc. At present, her latest blog work is on Jain Height’s new eco-friendly homes, luxury condominium projects for sale in Bangalore and about the right time to invest in an apartment.

Abdul Aziz Mondol

Abdul Aziz Mondol is a professional blogger who is having a colossal interest in writing blogs and other jones of calligraphies. In terms of his professional commitments, he loves to share content related to business, finance, technology, and the gaming niche.

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What Are the Alternatives for Small Business Startup Loans?

An investment can yield fruits or fail. There are so many risks involved when starting businesses and investors will always wish for the best. Small business startup loans are essential for your business to grow smoothly. However, where there is a less risky option, no one would hesitate to consider it. This is especially the case when it comes to financing startups. Small business investors may be reluctant to review the loan options for good reasons. For example, a loan is an obligation that has to be obeyed. If the investment does not yield profits, the owner must repay using other alternatives. In many cases, these loans have very high interest rates, and the total cost of borrowing may be too expensive for small investors. It is imperative to reduce the risks involved in borrowing funds, especially for startups. You come to think of the adverse effects a loan may have on your financial profile, and it becomes necessary to consider alternative options for financing your venture. Let us examine the scenario portrayed earlier. If the investment fails to be successful, it means the business cannot repay the loan. If you do not have alternative ways of settling the debt, you will default. As a result, your credit score will be negatively affected, and this reduces the chances of securing other loans in the future. Suppose you do not default but repay late, your credit history will still be damaged. Because of all these risks, it is important to consider alternatives for small business startup loans. Alternatives for Small Business Startup Loans: Alternative small business loans are more flexible with good credit requirements. Statistics show many small businesses are turning to alternative financing. As a business person, you will be confronted by situations that demand instant funding. Even though bank loans are perceived as the best solution in such cases, the truth is banks are often unwilling to offer loans to startups. That is why many are checking legit online loans like Instant Loan for fast-approval financial loans. Still, your venture might not meet the conditions required by banks, and if you are not careful, you may not salvage your business situation. You can turn to your retirement funds, dispose of a personal asset, or use your credit cards. Develop proper plans that can work well in your favor. While these options may help, several alternative funding options salvage the conditions in the best way ever. The following are some of the best alternative options for startups: Asset-based lending: In this arrangement, the asset you intend to purchase is held as collateral for the funds borrowed. Put differently; the lender becomes the owner of the asset until you repay the final payment. The two standard options in this category of financing include leasing and hire purchase. Business Angels: These are very wealthy and experienced individuals in the community who are often willing to invest in new businesses. They usually have prior understanding of how the industry operates and this is a significant factor in their decisions to invest in new ventures. The main problem with this type of financing is matching investors with small business owners seeking finances. The only ways the two can connect is through friends, family members, and business networks. The best thing with business angels is that they never seek control or management positions in the firm. They only perform advisory roles, and it is expected that they are consulted. Venture capitalists: If the risks involved are too high, the best alternative financing option is venture capital. It is always perceived as early phase sponsoring of new and young firms with the potential of growing quickly. Unlike business angels, venture capitalists are supposed to be involved in the management of the business. They always take some shares in the business. Their primary interest, though, is on the business growth and would be glad to see new small firms grow and become large. Nevertheless, venture capitalists do not finance all small businesses. They have criteria for determining which firm to fund. The following are some of the things they look for in a business before funding it: The quality of management Efficient corporate management Suitable investment structured. Venture capital can be the best way of financing startups. However, it comes at a cost because new investments always have high risks. If you do not want to lose part of your independence or shares in the business, then do not consider this option. Venture capitalists always aim at harvesting long-term financial gains. They may opt to harvest after a period of 5-10 years after making the original investment. Small business startup loans can make things complicated for your business. Family and friends: If other options are not applicable, you can always turn to family members and friends. Your parents brought you up and seeing you successful will make them happy. If your business is worth their trust, they can willingly invest in it. The good thing here is that parents will not push you the same way bank will if you delay payments. However, to maintain a healthy family relationship, respect your obligation and try to repay the loan on time. Do not put your family and friends into too many risks. Let them know all the risks the business faces before they decide to invest in it. The major problem with this option is that parents and friends will always feel they have to be consulted when it comes to spending because they loaned you. Crowdfunding: This is one of the best and common way of financing new ventures. It involves sourcing funds from friends, clients, family, and personal investors through an online platform. You give your idea to a large number of people, and you will probably find someone willing to finance your venture. It is often referred to as online fundraising and has helped many startups successfully. Small business Startup loans can make things easier for your business. Grants: Although it is hard to qualify for these types of funding, they are very beneficial because one will not have to repay them. They are usually provided by the government, though recently some small business associations provide individual grants. Conclusion: These six alternatives for small business startup loans discussed in this blog. Consider first the options that you will not be required to repay such as grants. If you need a substantial initial capital, you can go for venture capital and business angels. Whichever option you take, you will be better off than someone using bank loan options. Read Also: Benefits Of NBFC Business Loans 6 Top CRM For Small Businesses In 2019 6 Loan Mistakes Every Business Owner Must Avoid What Entrepreneurs With Bad Credit Need To Know Before Applying For A Loan? What Is The Future Of Digital Marketing In Regards To Shaping Up Small And Large Businesses?

Ready to Take the Leap into Self-Employment? Here’s How to Set up an Awesome Home Office

Working from a home office can be amazing. A study showed that 3.9 million Americans have gone the way of a home office. It can help you have a work-life balance, and you don't have to commute anywhere. Dress codes are flexible too. To maximize your efficiency, you need an awesome home office. Here are some helpful tips to make sure you create a space that inspires you to work. Where Will You Have Your Office? Decide what part of your home you will work in. For some, there aren't many options, so it's off to the sofa or kitchen table for work. For others, there is that perfect space that will minimize outside distractions, and let you move around freely. Plan Your Awesome Home Office: Now you need to plan how to make your space comfortable. If you live in an area where it gets cold, you want to be able to work without shivering. This is where you should consider your options for window coverings and flooring. Painting, flooring, and the structures in your space are the canvas for a home office that will serve you best. Before you move anything in, see what you want to change first. Prepare Your Seat: It goes without saying that you need to be able to sit comfortably while you do your best work. A quality office chair with multiple adjustments, like the ones at winc.com.au, will allow you to find that sweet spot where you can focus for hours without any aches. Have Good Lighting: Set up your work area close to a window. You want to get your daily share of vitamin D from natural light. It will help your mood, and will also look great. Don't stop there. You need a few more lamps so that you can read and use other parts of your workspace when the sun isn't shining. Plan Against Clutter: How much time do you spend per year searching for papers? You can plan to prevent that. Having stacks of books and paper around your desk will hamper your productivity. Your things have to go somewhere, so decide how you will store them. Perhaps you have another room for that. What will you use for storage? A file cabinet or some modern looking boxes on a shelf? If you have a lot of wires in your office, add cord holder under your desk and minimize how many extension cords you need. Walking into a tidy home office setup feels great. It's only one of the secrets of a productive home office. Add Some Comfort: You don't need to do all work at a desk. Sometimes you need a space where you move, stretch, and have some time to think. A sitting area is great to have if your space allows for it. Thinking about adding in a soft chair, leather ottoman, coffee table, rugs, and lamps. With a space like this, you will be happy to take a thinking break or invite clients over. Personalize Your Space: Now you can put your own special touch on your home office. Designer posters, personal photos, or one differently painted focus wall are only a few ways you can start to achieve this. Do you have a style you love, but it's not right for your entire home? Your home office could be the place for that. Remember to cater to you first. If you like your space, you'll work better in it. The Perfect Office Setup: There is no one solution, but by knowing yourself and how you work, you can fit these tips into an awesome home office that suits your style. If you're starting to work from home this year, check out our small business section for more helpful posts. Read Also: Necessary Spaces To Include In Building Your Office 6 Techniques To Improve Your Work-From-Home Career

5 Steps To Launching Your Own Small Business

Commencing a business of your own is a dream for many in such a high-paced environment where competition is always on the rise. However, it is not as overwhelming as it sounds. With the right set of knowledge and planning, one can easily learn how to start your own small business. While you get started on the journey, there are certain things that you need to keep in mind. This article will walk you through the 5 important steps that help you build a brand right from scratch. So, make sure you scroll till the end and discover the unknown business tips. 5 Steps To Follow When Starting A Small Business Before actually starting to build a business, you have to get a detailed analysis of the market, your competitors, and the things that have been trending in this particular niche. If you conduct a thorough study on this, there’s absolutely nothing that can stop you from becoming an entrepreneur. 1. Research All of Your Variables This might seem obvious, but it's really not. Most people understand they need to research how to deliver the services or goods they intend to provide and how to advertise to the right customer base. It goes further, though. The kind of industry you would do best in and the business model that best suits your area and target marketplace are also variables to consider. You might know what you can do, generally, from your skill set, but you need to get specific about what your area needs and where it is underserved if you want to count on bringing in customers quickly. Look at the cost of setting up a company, leasing compared to buying operational space, costs for local advertising, and recommendations for staffing while you are at it. The more knowledge you have going in, the better your chances of success once you get things going. Running a company is all about building consistent processes for regular tasks, and you need research to understand which processes will be productive, too. 2. Assess Your Financial Reach Within any industry, there are players that work as individual professionals or owner-operators, and there are large corporations providing service at volume. Frequently, the latter are the biggest customers for the former. The scope of your company at startup is defined by the resources you can bring to bear. Understanding how much financing you can get with your available assets and capital will help you understand how to set up your company for day-one operation by putting realistic limits on things like equipment, utilities, payroll and the number of employees you can start with. You can make the most of this reach by getting the best small business loan rates you are qualified for, and that takes even more research to discover. 3. Choose a Business Model Once you understand what you can do with your skills, what size company you can afford to start, and where the demand is, the next step is to pick a model of operation. The model is different from the business. For example, you might want to start a restaurant. What kind? Fine dining, carryout, and mobile food service, all have different operations with different processes needed to be successful. Matching your model to your ability to reach customers and meet their needs is just as important as finding raw demand for a product or service. With a variety of options available, it might be a little confusing for you. So sit back, relax, and think about what kind of business will yield you the desired result. 4. Write a Killer Business Plan Writing your business plan is pretty much the last step in the preparation phase before you actually start launching the company. It serves as a roadmap to your goals as well as an important document for lenders to consider when you apply for financing. A well-written plan should spell out enough about your operation to let your key personnel make autonomous decisions in their spheres of influence. That means your managers should not need to consult you when setting up their departments. In solo operations, it means that you should not need to do extra research outside of consulting your plan unless something unforeseen happens. Your plan should describe the major operations, layout marketing tactics to reach the initial audience with demand and to keep growing from there, identify the equipment you'll need, and otherwise cover everything that goes into actually running the company. That makes it a lot easier to put the pieces together. 5. Put It All Into Motion The first step after finishing your plan is usually financing because that gives you the financial reach to start operating. There are just a few cases where that is not the case. Solo operations can sometimes bootstrap basic services to get a little income going by working out of the house or a client's facilities. Otherwise, it's a matter of lining up the money, then buying the equipment and hiring any staff you need. Last comes marketing and launch. It is always a better idea to keep a dedicated portion of your income aside to fund your business, irrespective of its size. Businesses are full of ups and downs, and once you have set foot, there is no backing off. As a result, you have saved a significant amount of your finances to back up your persistent losses. Upon completion of these steps, you might want to allocate a part of your economic resource to bring the necessary equipment for your business. This will streamline your operations and will ensure that your business operates seamlessly. Key Takeaways Starting your own business takes not only a great deal of money but also time and effort. However, it can also be extremely rewarding when done in the right way. Make sure to follow the above steps that will guide you throughout your business-setup process. For detailed insight, you can always consult a licensed professional for business advice. Get started today! Read Also: Essential Investments Small Business Owners Should Make For Long-Term Success Resolutions To Help The Small Business Owners To Avoid Being Bankrupt How You Can Invest In Your Small Business

Why You Must Embrace Green Home Technologies?