What is PLC in Real Estate?
In the real estate business, there are numerous terms and charges that might confuse homebuyers.PLC being one of the most commonly misunderstood. If you've ever seen an extra fee tagged as "PLC" on a property brochure or during a price discussion and wondered what it is, you're not alone.
This comprehensive blog Dreams Realty—your trusted partner in real estate transactions—explains what is PLC in real estate, why it is important, and how knowing it can assist you in making better property choices.
Introduction: What is PLC in Real Estate?
PLC stands for Preferential Location Charges. It is a special charge paid by developers for buildings or apartments that have a "better" location in a residential or commercial complex. They might be properties facing clubhouses, parks, corner plots, pool-facing buildings, or apartments in higher floors with good views.While the base price of a unit remains consistent across a project, PLC in real estate adds a premium for certain locational advantages.While the foundation price of a unit is the same throughout a project, PLC in real estate imposes an extra premium for some locational benefits.
Examples of Preferential Locations That Attract PLC:
- Park or Garden Facing Units
- Lake or Pool Facing Apartments
- Corner Flats for Better Ventilation and Privacy
- Road-Facing or Frontage Commercial Units
- Higher Floors with Scenic Views
- Units close to Amenities like Clubhouses or Gyms
Struggling with assessing which place is best suited for you? Dreams Realty can assist you every step of the way.
Why Do Developers Charge PLC?
Top developers like Prestige, Chaitanya, Brigade, Total Environment, Sobha and many more with whom Dreams Realty has collaborated. These offer a variety of apartment types ,villas and views within a project. Not all units are created equal in terms of location and exposure. PLC compensates for the added value that comes with a better orientation, view, or accessibility.
From a developer’s perspective, it is about selling the best locations in the project master plan. From a buyer's point of view, it is a lifestyle upgrade, improved natural light, ventilation, or even increased resale value.
How Much is the PLC Typically?
PLC in real estate can vary based on multiple factors:
- Type of Project (luxury, mid-range, budget housing)
- Location of the Property
- Type of Preferential View or Advantage
- Floor Level Premiums
- Park facing: ₹100–₹300/sq. ft.
- Corner units: ₹50–₹150/sq. ft.
- Higher floors: ₹25–₹100/sq. ft.
- Clubhouse or amenity proximity: ₹50–₹200/sq. ft.
At Dreams Realty, we ensure that buyers receive a detailed breakdown of all cost components, including PLC, to avoid surprises later.
Is PLC Justified? A Realistic Perspective
PLC is more than just a pricing strategy—it reflects buyer demand. For instance, a corner apartment with dual balconies and open ventilation is usually in high demand. Similarly, units near the entrance or clubhouse in premium developments often fetch better resale prices. In such cases, PLC becomes an investment in comfort and future value.
Of course, not all PLC charges apply to all consumers. It's essential to compare, analyze, and select on the basis of taste—not solely the price point.
Hidden Impacts of PLC on Home Buying Decisions
- Higher EMI and Loan Amount
- Property Taxes (based on total cost including PLC)
- Resale Considerations
- Emotional Value and Lifestyle
Insight: Buyers should visualize the value they’re paying for. Virtual tours and site visits arranged by Dreams Realty are great tools to help you understand if a PLC premium is worth it.
Checklist: Should You Pay PLC?- Is it a long-term residence or a short-term investment?
- Does the preferential location add to your lifestyle or convenience?
- Is there demand for such units in the resale or rental market?
- Are the PLC charges clearly defined and not overly inflated?
Real-Life Example: PLC in Action
A buyer was evaluating two similar 3BHK units in a Total Environment project. One was garden-facing and adjacent to the clubhouse, priced ₹5 lakhs higher due to PLC. The other, lacking these benefits, was more affordable.
After comparing both options through virtual tours, evaluating sunlight exposure, noise levels, and future potential, the buyer chose the garden-facing unit, realizing the added value was worth the premium—with assistance from Dreams Realty throughout the process.
PLC vs Base Cost vs Other Charges| Component | Details |
|---|---|
| Base Price | Price per sq. ft. multiplied by built-up area |
| PLC | Extra for preferential unit location |
| Floor Rise Charges | Extra for higher floors (especially in metros) |
| Parking Charges | Based on open, covered, or stilt parking |
| Clubhouse Charges | Amenities like gym, pool, etc. |
| GST, Stamp Duty, Registration | Government charges on full property cost |
Conclusion: Make Every Square Foot Count
PLC in real estate is not inherently a negative charge. In fact, it reflects buyer choice and market trends. What matters is clarity, justification, and transparency. With the right advice, PLC can be a wise investment in future comfort and property value.
Whether you’re looking for a corner flat in a Prestige project, a lake-facing home in a Brigade development, or a garden-level villa from Total Environment, make sure you assess PLC costs thoroughly—with guidance from professionals who understand your priorities.
