In the vast landscape of India’s real estate, 2023 has etched itself as a historic chapter, marked by unprecedented growth and transformative shifts. Propelled by policy reforms, surging consumer confidence, increased disposable income, and a quest for more spacious abodes, the real estate sector has not only shattered previous records but also set the stage for a promising 2024.
2023: A Year of Milestones
The pulse of India’s real estate beats strongest in its top 7 cities – MMR, Pune, Hyderabad, and NCR. An Anarock report unveils the staggering numbers: a surge from 3,64,870 housing units in 2022 to an impressive 4,76,530 units in 2023, translating to a remarkable 31% annual growth. This surge is not limited to sales alone; new launches experienced a 25% uptick, painting a vibrant picture of the sector’s vitality.
Yashank Wasson, MD of Royal Green Realty, notes the dynamic performance, attributing it to global economic recovery, amplified demand for spacious homes due to low interest rates, and certain challenges like escalating construction costs and supply chain disruptions.
Amrita Gupta, Director of Manglam Group, emphasizes the synergy between positive consumer sentiment, stable interest rates, and government support, resulting in the expansion of the real estate map beyond metros. Cities like Jaipur, Udaipur, Chandigarh, Goa, Surat, Vadodara, previously overshadowed, now stand tall with their own economic identities.
Mohit Jain, MD of Krisumi Corporation, singles out Gurugram as a shining star, crediting rapid infrastructure development for its robust sales and capital appreciation.
The year 2023 also witnessed fractional ownership, particularly in the second-home segment, gaining traction. Shravan Gupta, Founder and CEO of YOURS, points to factors like growing acceptance, rising property prices, and SEBI guidelines contributing to the sector’s growth.
Luxury Housing Takes Center Stage
2023 showcased a paradigm shift in housing preferences. Luxury housing, catering to a desire for larger living spaces post-pandemic, witnessed a fivefold increase in supply across the top 7 cities compared to 2018. CBRE’s report underscores this surge, with the premium and luxury segment (units priced at Rs 2 crore and above) experiencing a staggering 70% YoY increase in sales from January to September 2023.
Aditya Khushwaha, CEO & Director of Axis Ecorp, underscores the prosperity of the luxury real estate segment, citing a remarkable 97% surge in luxury home sales. The demand for opulence, global design exposure, and the influence of the NRI market contribute to the positive outlook for this segment.
2024: A Promising Horizon
Industry experts are optimistic about carrying the momentum into 2024. CBRE anticipates strong demand for mid-end and budget/affordable projects, aligning with past trends. The premium and luxury segments are expected to sustain healthy growth.
Amrita Gupta envisions a sector evolving towards sustainability in 2024. Homebuyers, increasingly inclined towards sustainable living, are driving this shift. Tier II and III cities are expected to lead in development, complementing the success of established regions.
Developers cautiously predict a stable and innovation-driven real estate landscape in 2024. Economic recovery, government support for affordable housing, a focus on sustainable projects, and potential resurgence in the commercial real estate sector are key factors.
Aditya Khushwaha sees exciting opportunities for growth in the holiday home segment, with Goa maintaining its spotlight. Anticipated government schemes and support add optimism to the sector.
As preferences transform, affordability is no longer the sole factor driving homebuyers. Health & safety, community living, sustainability, and smart home technologies are emerging as decisive factors in purchase decisions, heralding a new era in India’s real estate landscape. As the sector embraces these changes, 2024 beckons with the promise of stability, innovation, and continued growth.