My criteria when I started searching for an apartment in Kolkata.(btw, I currently reside in US but did grow up in South Kolkata)
Close to the IT parks(would appreciate really fast, easy to rent out, proximity to offices)
Open space(I know people in high-rises / communities and they dont go out much for walks / strolls outside their community. So its important to have open space within the same compound+ whos got the free time to drive to a park!)
Ventilation - South facing and should be as open as possible
Balcony(Just any would not do! Should be spacious enough)
Price(Should be competitive. <50L)
Construction(Should be a renouned builder. Must have other completed projects)
Time of project completion(around 2012)
I researched a number of projects all over Kolkata and this project managed to hit the sweet spot.
Pros:
10-15 minutes from the IT zone and 20 mins from the airport.
Lot of greenery. The buildings are spaced out and all apartments would be airy.
Ventilation gets a 5*. Most apartments are open on 3 sides but the corner ones in B & F are practically open on all 4 sides.
Lovely balconny and spacious. This was the most important factor for not going for Keppel Magnuss Elita Garden Vista. The balconies there are ridiculous!
Priced realatively cheaper than the rest primarily because it a little further away from the other residential areas and the access is a little round about. But this area has come under Newtown municipality, so a lot of improvement & connectivity is expected.
Surekhas other projects are quite nice. Very nicely finished. Stark comparison with South City which was delivered in a haste! It is expected that this project will also be of high standards.
Monthly project updates are a big plus. They were also very transparent with the prices and fees. Everything is available on their website. My communication with some of their management team has been good.
Air conditioning - no external ACs(including split) is allowed. Good for safety & looks. Though the initial cost of VRF air conditioning systems are high, its highly efficient systems would make it cheaper in the long run.
Cons
Right next to the Bagjola canal. However, during my visit, I did not notice any foul smell and the water seemed to be flowing. Mosquitos night be an issue but they are everywhere!
Access road - The bridge over the canal is a good 5 minutes drive. With the road quite nasty, it could take quite a bit. I was told that plans for a bridge is already sanctioned but I would advise taking that with a pinch of salt!
Not really a con but the amenities are good but its not like Elita garden Vista. The open green space does provide an opportunity for the residents to innovate!