Flats have become popular due to the safety and security available for flat dwellers. There is an element of the historical 'tharavadu'(the joint family system of yesteryears) in the concept of flats with the role of the 'karnavar' (seniormost male member who word is the law in the 'tharavadu') whose role has been taken over by the Building society in each flat complex. In addition to security, the tenant need not worry about payment of electricity, water or other maintenance bills which are taken care of by the society. All external maintenance is also done by the society. Many of the builders provide utilities like centralized gas, health club, waste chutes and driver's rooms which are value additions. The paper work involved during the purchase is also minimal and the biggest boon is that one need not worry about the problems of construction-labour, purchase of material, permits and licenses etc. Residential areas: Panmpilly Nagar, Kakkanad, Gandhi Nagar, Giri Nagar, Kumaran Asan Nagar, are residential localities which have come up during the past few decades. Palarivattom, Kaloor,and Edapally, are the older residential areas. Kakkanad is fast becoming one of the most favored spots for villas and flats while in Kathrikadavu area, with its two new flyovers, land value has touched new highs. Of late, Nedumassary which is outside city limits is also being developed as a residential area by some developers. It is obvious that land value is going up day by day but good plots are fast becoming scarce. Rates for Kochi flats have quadrupled in the space of five years, and in some cases even doubled in one year. The best time is to buy now as tomorrow would be too late
