Homebuyers Prioritize ‘Value Addition’ Over ‘Affordability’
New Delhi, September 24, 2026: India’s residential real estate market is undergoing a structural shift as homebuyers move beyond basic affordability to prioritize projects offering value-added amenities. Sales of homes priced below Rs 50 lakh fell 32% in the first half of 2026, driven by weak demand and shrinking supply, while sales of homes priced between Rs 1.5 crore and Rs 3 crore rose 58%. Buyers are increasingly evaluating modern amenities, including extra elevators, landscaped green spaces, multi-sport facilities, meeting rooms, and private theaters.
Suresh Garg, CMD of Nirala World, said, “Today’s homebuyer looks beyond just four walls and a location. They want to understand how the project’s amenities, superior design, green spaces, security, and community infrastructure will enhance their daily lives. Consequently, customers appear willing to make a slightly higher investment to meet these needs.”
Lt. Col. Ashwani Nagpal (R), COO of Diligent Builders, noted that buyers are making calculated decisions focused on long-term strategies, prompting developers to alter project planning to cater to current and future requirements.
Homebuyers are evaluating factors such as construction technology, maintenance standards, connectivity, and potential asset appreciation alongside initial price tags.
Geetanjali Khanna, Founder & MD of Rearco Pvt. Ltd, said, “Priorities have shifted due to pricing dynamics; most buyers are seeking larger apartments and have increased their affordability thresholds to accommodate this. By managing costs effectively, developers are integrating features that address residents’ future needs, thereby sustaining consistent demand for homes.”
Himanshu Garg, Director at RG Group, added, “Buyer priorities in the real estate sector are evolving rapidly. Decisions are no longer based solely on price; customers now assess the quality of life and potential future asset appreciation their investment offers. This explains why demand for value-added projects remains strong despite rising prices.”
Industry drivers include the expansion of technology firms, Global Capability Centers, financial services, dual-income households, and favorable home loan terms.
Shailendra Sharma, Chairman of Renox Group, said, “Despite the rise in housing prices in recent years, the actual strain on affordability is not as severe as the raw price figures might suggest. With a decade of market experience, homebuyers now have broader preferences and are willing to pay a premium for extra features—a positive sign for the market.”
