Women in India are increasingly turning to real estate as their preferred investment choice, with 31% of women homebuyers purchasing property for investment purposes, according to a recent Anarock survey. The survey highlights that real estate remains the top investment asset class for 70% of women in the second half of FY24, up from 65% in H2 FY22 and 57% in H2 FY19.

Declining Interest in Stocks and Rising Preference for Gold

One of the most significant shifts observed in the survey is the sharp decline in women’s interest in stock market investments. While over 20% of women preferred stocks in H2 FY22, this figure has now plummeted to just 2% in H2 FY24. Chairman of Anarock, Mr. Anuj Puri, attributed this decline to stock market volatility and a preference for tangible assets like housing, which provides long-term stability and security.

At the same time, gold has gained traction as an investment option, with women’s preference rising from 8% in H2 FY22 to over 12% in H2 FY24. Gold has historically been a trusted asset class in India, particularly among women, due to its stability and cultural significance. The recent increase in gold prices may have further fueled this growing interest.

Luxury and Premium Housing in Demand

The survey also indicates a growing preference for premium and luxury homes among women homebuyers. In H2 FY24, 52% of women opted for properties priced above Rs. 90 lakh (US$ 1,03,083), compared to 47% in H2 FY22. The breakdown of luxury housing demand among women buyers is as follows:

• 33% purchased homes in the Rs. 90 lakh - Rs. 1.5 crore (US$ 1,03,083 - US$ 1,71,762) range
• 11% opted for properties priced between Rs. 1.5 crore - Rs. 2.5 crore (US$ 1,71,762 - US$ 2,86,270)
• 8% invested in ultra-luxury homes costing over Rs. 2.5 crore (US$ 2,86,270)

This trend suggests that women are becoming key players in India’s premium real estate segment, with many choosing high-end properties for both self-use and investment purposes.

Shift Towards Under-Construction Properties

The survey also highlights a rising preference for newly launched and under-construction properties. In H2 FY24, 18% of women preferred under-construction homes, up from just 10% in H2 FY22. This indicates growing confidence in large, listed developers, who are seen as more reliable and capable of delivering projects on time.

Conversely, the demand for ready-to-move-in homes has dropped by 29%, from 48% in H2 FY22 to a significantly lower percentage in H2 FY24. This suggests that more women are willing to wait for construction completion in exchange for higher returns and modern amenities offered by new projects.

End-Use vs. Investment Ratio Among Women Homebuyers

Another key finding from the Anarock survey is the changing end-use-to-investment ratio among women homebuyers:

• In H2 FY22, 79% of women purchased homes for self-use, while 21% bought for investment.
• By H2 FY24, the ratio had shifted to 69:31, meaning more women are now investing in real estate rather than just buying homes for personal use.

This shift reflects a broader investment-oriented approach among women buyers, who are increasingly considering real estate as a reliable wealth-building asset.

Factors Driving Women’s Interest in Real Estate

Several factors contribute to the growing preference for real estate investment among women in India:

1. Stock Market Volatility: The stock market’s recent downturn has made real estate a safer investment alternative.
2. Security and Stability: Women see housing as a long-term, stable asset that offers capital appreciation and rental income potential.
3. Government Benefits: Many states in India offer stamp duty concessions and tax benefits for women homebuyers, encouraging real estate investments.
4. Financial Independence: More women are now financially independent, leading to increased participation in investment decisions.
5. Growing Confidence in Developers: The rise of reputed real estate developers ensures better project completion rates, making property investments more attractive.

Future Outlook

As women continue to play a more active role in investment decisions, real estate is expected to remain a dominant asset class for them. With increasing financial awareness, more women are expected to enter the property market, especially in the luxury and premium housing segments.

While the stock market remains volatile, and gold continues to hold cultural significance, real estate offers the dual benefits of capital appreciation and financial security, making it a preferred choice for investment.

As the real estate sector evolves, developers and financial institutions must cater to the unique needs of women buyers by offering:

• Flexible financing options
• Lower interest rates for women borrowers
• Innovative housing projects tailored to their preferences

Conclusion

The Anarock survey highlights a major shift in women’s investment preferences in India. With 31% of women choosing real estate for investment and 70% preferring it as their primary asset class, the sector continues to gain momentum. Meanwhile, stock market interest has plummeted to just 2%, reflecting a growing risk-averse sentiment.

As more women embrace homeownership and real estate investment, India’s housing market is set to witness stronger female participation, reshaping the real estate landscape in the years ahead.

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