The Indian real estate market is experiencing a significant shift in homebuyer preferences. Gone are the days when buyers preferred ready-to-move-in (RTMI) properties; the latest data suggests that homebuyers are now leaning towards newly launched projects more than ever before.
According to a recent Anarock property consultancy report, over 42% of the 460,000 homes sold in 2024 were from newly launched projects. This marks a sharp increase from 26% in 2019, highlighting the growing consumer confidence in the real estate sector post-pandemic.
But what’s causing this massive shift in demand? Let’s dive deeper into the key reasons behind this trend, its impact on the market, and what it means for homebuyers and investors.
📊 The Numbers Speak: A Sharp Rise in New Launch Preferences
To put things into perspective, let’s look at the trend over the last few years:
- 2019: Only 26% of homes sold were from newly launched projects.
- 2020: The number increased to 28% (out of 138,000 homes sold).
- 2021: The share grew to 34% (out of 237,000 homes sold).
- 2022: New launches made up 36% of 365,000 homes sold.
- 2023: The figure further climbed to 40% (of 477,000 homes sold).
- 2024: The trend peaked, with 42% of 460,000 homes sold being newly launched units.
This upward trend clearly indicates that newly launched projects are becoming the top choice for homebuyers, surpassing ready-to-move-in properties.
🏙️ Why Are Homebuyers Choosing Newly Launched Homes?
There are several key factors driving this shift in demand:
1. Better Pricing & Flexible Payment Plans
💰 Newly launched properties are often priced lower than RTMI homes.
💳 Developers offer attractive early-bird discounts, easy payment options, and flexible schemes, making it easier for buyers to invest.
2. Customization & Modern Amenities
🏗️ Buying a newly launched home allows buyers to choose from the best units in terms of location, floor preference, and view.
🏢 New projects are designed with the latest trends in mind, offering modern architecture, smart home features, and world-class amenities.
3. Stronger Developer Reputation & Trust
🏢 The growing dominance of large, reliable developers in the Indian residential market has boosted consumer confidence.
✅ Reputed developers ensure timely delivery and adhere to RERA (Real Estate Regulatory Authority) guidelines, reducing risks for buyers.
4. Rising Investment Potential
📈 Investors see new launches as a lucrative opportunity to enter the market at a lower price and gain higher returns over time.
📍 Cities like Bengaluru, Hyderabad, and Chennai have seen a sharp uptick in investor interest, further driving demand for new projects.
5. Avoiding Delays & Uncertainty
⏳ While RTMI homes were once the preferred choice due to project delays and legal uncertainties, developers have now improved their delivery timelines.
🚀 The real estate market has evolved, and buyers feel more secure investing in under-construction projects backed by financially strong developers.
🏢 City-Wise Breakdown: Where Are New Launches Thriving?
📍 National Capital Region (NCR)
🔹 The NCR market has bounced back strongly, with 44% of the 61,900 units sold in 2024 being newly launched.
🔹 In 2019, only 22% of NCR’s sales came from new launches—showing a dramatic shift in just five years.
🔹 A strong supply pipeline from trusted developers has helped boost consumer trust in NCR’s new projects.
📍 Bengaluru & Chennai – Leading the Change
🏗️ In Bengaluru, 53% of the 65,230 units sold in 2024 were newly launched homes, making it one of the top cities for new projects.
🏡 Similarly, 53% of Chennai’s 19,220 unit sales came from fresh launches.
📈 Developers are actively acquiring land in these cities to meet the growing demand for newly launched projects.
🚀 The Role of RERA & Policy Changes in Boosting New Launches
The implementation of RERA (Real Estate Regulatory Authority) laws has played a crucial role in bringing transparency and accountability to the real estate sector.
✅ Developers must now disclose project timelines, finances, and compliance details, making newly launched projects safer investments for buyers.
✅ The pre-RERA era saw buyers hesitating to invest in under-construction projects due to fraudulent developers and project delays.
✅ With stricter regulations, new launches today come with greater security, making them more attractive than ever before.
🏆 The Future of the Housing Market: What’s Next?
The Indian real estate market is witnessing a transformation, and new launches are likely to dominate sales in the coming years. Here’s what we can expect:
🌆 More launches in key metropolitan cities, with an emphasis on affordable and mid-segment housing.
🛠️ Developers will focus on timely delivery to retain consumer trust.
🏡 New projects will be designed for changing buyer preferences, offering flexible layouts, work-from-home-friendly designs, and green spaces.
📊 A continued rise in investor interest, particularly in emerging markets like Bengaluru, Hyderabad, and Chennai.
With strong economic growth, rising disposable incomes, and favorable government policies, the demand for newly launched homes will only strengthen.
💡 Final Thoughts – Should You Buy a Newly Launched Home?
If you’re in the market for a new home or investment property, newly launched projects offer a fantastic opportunity.
🔹 They come with better pricing, modern amenities, and flexible payment plans.
🔹 Trusted developers are ensuring timely completion and RERA compliance, making new projects safer.
🔹 The demand for fresh launches is growing, ensuring strong resale value and future appreciation.
✅ For first-time homebuyers, investors, and even those looking to upgrade, a newly launched home in 2024 might just be the perfect choice!
💬 What’s your take on this trend? Would you prefer a newly launched home over a ready-to-move-in property? Share your thoughts in the comments! 🏠✨
