08/05/2025
India’s premium real estate market is witnessing a strong surge in demand, driven by high-net-worth individuals and non-resident Indians who are actively seeking secure and high-yield investment opportunities. Anarock’s annual residential report 2024 reveals that 59% of new housing projects in Delhi NCR, 18% in Hyderabad, and 12% in MMR were priced above Rs. 2.5 crore, showing a rise in demand for premium homes among wealthy buyers and NRIs.
NRIs, in particular, are playing a key role in this expansion, actively acquiring premium properties in major Indian metros as part of long-term wealth preservation strategies, noted a recent report by GRI Club.
The growing demand for premium housing is being effectively addressed by established, listed developers with a strong track record of timely delivery and compliance-driven operations. Sales of listed players have grown steadily over the years, driven by their compliance-based mechanisms. In FY25, Godrej Properties reported sales of Rs. 29,444 crore, marking a 31% year-on-year growth. Signature Global (India) achieved pre-sales of Rs. 10,209 crore, registering a 42% YoY increase, while Macrotech Developers recorded sales booking of Rs.17,630 crore, reflecting a 21% growth over the previous fiscal.
NRIs prefer trusted brands
While the majority of new supply is focused on ultra-luxury homes, there is a noticeable shortage of homes in the upper mid-income and premium segments. Since the RERA law came into effect in 2017, there has been a significant increase in trust for developers who follow rules and deliver on time. This has led to a growing preference from NRIs for projects by such developers.
These trusted brands are not only catering to the evolving expectations of affluent domestic buyers and NRIs but are also driving significant consolidation in the sector. By capturing a sizable portion of the real estate space, they are reshaping the market landscape and reinforcing their leadership positions. NRIs, in particular, are increasingly drawn to developments that offer integrated lifestyles, combining work, living, and leisure in one place.
While sharing his views, Ravi Aggarwal, co-founder & managing director, Signature Global (India), said, “India’s real estate market has seen a strong rise in buyer confidence, especially towards branded developers with a solid track record. Over the years, NRIs and HNIs have emerged as key drivers of demand in the premium segment. With market consolidation gaining momentum and more buyers gravitating towards trusted real estate brands, investor sentiment is expected to remain strong. The Indian housing market continues to offer promising returns, and developers are aligning their offerings with the evolving aspirations of discerning buyers through innovative, world-class projects that deliver both lifestyle and investment value.”
Premium properties in Gurugram surge
While Mumbai continues to be the hub of India’s luxury real estate market, other metro cities like Gurugram, Hyderabad, and Bangalore are quickly rising as strong competitors, drawing a fresh wave of high-net-worth buyers and investors.
Gurugram has become a prime destination for luxury homes, with many record-breaking sales making it a popular place for HNIs and NRIs. Leading developers are focusing on strategic locations like Southern Peripheral Road (SPR), Dwarka Expressway, New Gurugram and South of Gurugram, which offer great connectivity and are growing into complete urban communities. These projects help create vibrant neighbourhoods that benefit both buyers and developers.
NRIs’ strong shift in sentiment
Ashok Kapur, chairman, Krishna group and Krisumi Corporation, said, “The surge in demand for premium properties, especially from HNIs and NRIs, is a clear testament to the strong shift in market sentiment towards quality living experiences. Developers who recognise this trend are consistently aligning their offerings with the aspirations of discerning buyers who seek world-class design, timely delivery, and a lifestyle that is truly unmatched.
At Krisumi Corporation, we are developing Krisumi City, a self-sustained integrated township near Gurugram’s Dwarka Expressway, which has rapidly emerged as one of the most sought-after real estate corridors. The project has positioned us among the leading real estate brands in the region, catering to both domestic and international buyers who value superior infrastructure, global aesthetics, and future-ready urban living.”
According to industry estimates, NRIs account for 20–25% of investments in newly launched projects, reflecting their growing confidence in India’s premium real estate segment and the credibility of established developers.
According to an ICRA research, the consolidation in favour of larger and established players in the sector, the performance of these players is anticipated to outperform the broader underlying industry trends.
The ability of grade A developers to attract premium buyers and investors, access funding with ease, and execute large-scale projects efficiently positions them as key drivers of growth in the sector. As a result, these companies are well-placed to witness sustained expansion, enhanced market share, and long-term financial strength, further solidifying their leadership in India’s evolving real estate landscape.
