In recent years, women in India have transitioned from traditional roles as key decision-makers in household purchases to becoming independent and assertive investors in the real estate sector. This evolution is underscored by the latest findings from the ANAROCK Consumer Sentiment Survey conducted in the second half of 2024.
Women as End-Users and Investors
The survey reveals a notable shift in the dynamics of property ownership among women:
- End-Users: Approximately 69% of women purchase homes for personal use, highlighting a strong desire for ownership and stability.
- Investors: A significant 31% of women are now investing in properties, a rise from 21% in the second half of 2022. This trend indicates growing financial independence and a strategic approach to wealth accumulation among women.
Real Estate: The Preferred Investment Avenue
Real estate has emerged as the foremost investment choice for women:
- Preference Rate: Over 70% of women surveyed in H2 2024 favor real estate over other asset classes, up from 65% in H2 2022 and 57% in H2 2019.
- Decline in Stock Market Investments: Only 2% of women prefer stock market investments in H2 2024, a sharp decline from over 20% in H2 2022. This shift may be attributed to recent stock market volatility, prompting women to seek more stable investment options.
Budget Preferences Among Women Homebuyers
The survey highlights a trend towards premium and luxury housing:
- Premium/Luxury Homes: 52% of women prefer homes priced above INR 90 lakhs, an increase from 47% in H2 2022.
- Mid-Range Properties: 33% are interested in properties ranging from INR 90 lakhs to INR 1.5 crores.
- High-End Segment: 11% favor homes priced between INR 1.5 crores and INR 2.5 crores, while 8% are inclined towards properties exceeding INR 2.5 crores. This inclination towards higher-priced homes reflects the rising number of High Net Worth Individuals (HNIs) among women in India.
Also Read: Fostering Diversity and Inclusion in Real Estate: A Strategic Imperative
Shift Towards Under-Construction Properties
There’s a growing interest in under-construction properties among women:
- Under-Construction Preference: 18% of women now prefer under-construction homes, up from 10% in H2 2022.
- Ready-to-Move-In Decline: Preference for ready-to-move-in homes has decreased to 29% in H2 2024 from 48% in H2 2022. This trend suggests a strategic investment mindset, with women willing to wait for potential appreciation in property value.
Factors Driving the Trend
Several elements contribute to this evolving landscape:
- Economic Empowerment: Increased financial independence and higher disposable incomes enable women to make substantial investments.
- Market Stability: The resilience of the real estate market compared to other investment avenues enhances its attractiveness.
- Developer Credibility: The prominence of large, reputable developers in new projects instills confidence among women buyers, especially concerning under-construction properties.
The data from the ANAROCK Consumer Sentiment Survey underscores a transformative shift in the Indian real estate market, driven by empowered women making informed and strategic investment decisions. This trend not only reflects changing societal norms but also signifies a robust future for women’s participation in India’s economic growth.
