In India, the urban landscape is characterised by bustling metropolitan cities that serve as hubs of economic activity, cultural diversity, and dynamic real estate markets. One of the defining features of these cities is the higher cost of living, particularly evident in housing prices compared to non-metro areas.

Ahmedabad has emerged as a significant centre for finance, education, and culture in the country, with considerable promise in the Indian real estate realm as well. Evolving from a lively trading hub to a vibrant city, Ahmedabad has experienced a remarkable shift in its housing scene, fuelled by economic growth and forward-looking urban planning. Today, the residential market in the city has garnered substantial attention from investors and home seekers alike, witnessing notable trends shaped by changing consumer preferences.

Bengaluru, known for its vibrant IT sector with a plethora of established tech companies and emerging startups, has experienced significant economic and real estate development. The city has undergone remarkable changes, drawing considerable attention to its thriving residential property market. Presently, Bengaluru stands out not just as a top choice for IT professionals but also as an appealing option for those looking to invest in real estate.

While affordable homes, redeveloped structures and projects with ample amenities for elderly has been the talk of the town, it’s sustainable housing that has been making slow yet effective evolution within the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR). Such housing not only offers a holistic solution and addresses housing shortages, but also mitigates environmental concerns and socio-economic disparities.

Office real estate in India did well in the first quarter of 2024, increasing to 13.40 million sq ft from 11.85 million sq ft same quarter of last year, as per the latest office market report from Vestian, a US-headquartered workplace solutions firm. During the January-March 2024 quarter, the office market showcased a 13 per cent increase in absorption. However, the absorption declined by 31 per cent quarterly.

Bengaluru continues to attract non-resident Indian buyers who account for almost 15% of  housing sales in the city. The demand for real estate in the IT capital is primarily driven by NRIs from the US, Singapore, United Arab Emirates, Australia and Saudi Arabia with a majority of them preferring to invest in 2 and 3 BHK units. The US has outpaced other countries by a significant margin in terms of demand and transaction. Demand has also increased from NRIs based in Singapore, UAE, Australia, and Saudi Arabia, data shared by Nobroker showed.

Office absorption increased by 13% to 134 lakh sq ft in Q1 2024 from 118.5 lakh sq ft in Q1 2023 on the back of ‘Return to Office’ mandate by several corporates, a report by Vestian has said. Cities covered in the report included Bengaluru, Chennai, Hyderabad, Mumbai, Kolkata, Pune and NCR. Office space absorption, however, declined by 31% in the January to March quarter after peaking in Q4 2023. Southern cities such as Bengaluru, Chennai, and Hyderabad accounted for 61% of the pan India absorption in Q1 2024 with its share increasing from 54% a year earlier, said the report.

Consumers sentiments in India's housing market remain positive despite a rise in prices, according to realty portal Magicbricks. On Thursday, Magicbricks released a report 'Housing Sentiment Index' based on the survey of over 4,500 customers across 11 cities. "Despite inflationary pressures, the Housing Sentiment Index (HSI) across India remains robust with strong buyer confidence," it said in a statement. The survey revealed a positive market outlook for the Indian residential real estate sector with an overall HSI of 149.

While borrowing money, you have multiple options based on your credit profile and the type of loan you are planning to take. Lenders often cater to varied financial requirements, but it is the borrower who needs to assess the product features and understand what suits money needs the best. Land has long been viewed as a valuable asset in India, not just for residential or commercial purposes but also as a potential source of funding through loans. A loan against a plot of land, also known as a land loan or plot loan, can provide significant financial flexibility to landowners.

Embassy Office Parks REIT, on April 25, reported an 8 percent year-on-year (YoY) increase in both its revenues — at Rs 3,685 crore — and also its net operating income, at Rs 2,982 crore, in the March quarter. The company distributed dividends worth Rs 2,022 crore, or Rs 21.33 per unit, in FY2024. It leased out 8.1 million sq ft (msf) across 99 deals, exceeding its initial guidance of 6 msf for the full-year  by 35 percent. Embassy REIT said it plans to lease out 5.4 msf in FY25, with dividends in the range of Rs 22.40 to Rs 23.10.