The rapid development of highways and expressways across India has brought a paradigm shift in the real estate space. All those places which were metropolitan were previously considered as remote places, are now attracting investors as they promise improved connectivity and infrastructure. Therefore, many buyers and investors are keen to invest in Plots near Highway locations. But the one major question remains unanswered. How far should a residential plot be near highway?
Yes, proximity to Highway provides multiple benefits. But being too close may induce issues such as noise and pollution and also safety concerns. Therefore, a careful balance is required before one makes a purchase.
Highways are the growth corridors that link cities, industrial, commercial and residential projects. As connectivity improves, there is a great appreciation in the value of land in surrounding areas.
Investing in Plots near Highway locations offers the following advantages:
This makes the highway connected plots a better choice for end users and investors who are looking for long term returns.
No single distance can be considered as a “one size fits all” for residential property. The real-estate professionals say that the plots should be 500 meter or more but less than 2 kilometres from a Highway.
Most of the time quite often people find this ad-hoc range quite convenient.
500 Meters to 1 KM
You can think of these plots as being best connected to good roads and yet not in continuous traffic flow. It is a compromise between quality and safety.
It is that sweet spot for plots nobody knows how to describe but for many prospective home buyers, it is the best distance from a highway. Where they can comfortably commute to the highway without unreasonable noise and safety problem.
1 to 2 Km
Such distance can provide less noise level from the traffic while still retaining good connectivity while being near a highway. Could be the best choice for families who are looking for quieter residential area.
In some developing areas, such plots are generally cheaper than the plots right next to the highway.
Having access to a highway is one of the most important advantage to owning a plot. But here are some reasons that you might wish to avoid, right next to a highway!
Noise pollution
Moving vehicles, heavy trucks and high speed traffic around the clock, produce a very high level of noise. Highly congested traffic during the day or sleep distress at night can be very harmful to the comfort of our life.
Air pollution
Heavy vehicle flow on the main highways means very high levels of dust, emission, pollution in the air. Over time it can cause damage to the health and maintenance of property.
Safety
Placing a plot right next to the highway may present some safety risk for families with children and elderly people. A fast moving number of traffic and lack of pedestrian paths can be risky.
Loss of privacy
A property that is right next to a busy road can be highly easily accessed, and the constant activity is highly difficult to safeguard the peace and privacy of your home.
Future Infrastructure
Before investing in a plot at the edge of a highway, you have to do thorough research about future infrastructure extensions in the area. The presence of an industrial corridor, metro rail, commercial centre or logistics park in the future can lead to huge appreciation in property value.
Access Roads
Just because you have a plot adjacent to a highway, it does not mean it has every required angle or access in it. Look for good access roads (service roads) and entry points. More accessible, more desirable, more lucrative.
Local Appetite
Just because the locality is well connected, does not mean it is a great place to live. You also have to check that there are at least following facilities
A well-planned neighborhood brings long-term value to your investment.
Zoning and Land Use
Check zone regulations of the area to verify if it is earmarked for residential construction. Commercial or industrial development plans in this proximity may affect the residential locus.
Environmental Factors
Consider factors such as noise emission, green cover, air quality and the general ambience of the neighbourhood. Residing in an area with good landscaping and shielding may offer you the comfort of a pure living environment.
One of the key reasons why investors invest in Plots near Highway locations is the projected appreciation value. The trend has proven that construction of a better road network translates to demand for residential and commercial real estate in the nearby areas.
But the potential of appreciation depends on a number of factors including but not limited to:
Plots that are situated away from the highway experience better appreciation value 1 in the long run as compared to those that are directly prone to high traffic.
