Nearly 50% of prospective homebuyers are likely to purchase a residential property within the next two years, indicating sustained confidence in India's housing market, according to Colliers’ Homebuying Sentiment Survey 2026: Decoding India's Evolving Buyer Preferences.

The survey, which analysed responses from around 1,800 participants across more than 30 established and emerging residential markets, found that homebuying sentiment remains firm despite macroeconomic uncertainties. Around 54% of respondents believe external volatilities are likely to have a limited impact on the Indian real estate sector.

While buyers continue to show purchase intent, they are becoming more selective due to affordability pressures, rising construction costs and evolving lifestyle preferences. About one-third of respondents identified affordability and pricing as their primary concerns, followed by concerns around job security and income visibility.

The survey found that 46% of respondents prefer properties priced between Rs 50 lakh and Rs 1.5 crore. Cities including Mumbai, Delhi-NCR, Bengaluru and Hyderabad recorded stronger demand for higher ticket-size properties.

Apartment configurations remain a key consideration, with 62% of prospective buyers preferring 2BHK and 3BHK homes. Buyers are increasingly prioritising unit size, layout, connectivity and social infrastructure while evaluating residential properties.

Ravi Shankar Singh, Managing Director, Residential Transaction Services, Colliers India, said, “India’s residential market remains fundamentally end-user driven, but the path from purchase intent to actual conversion is becoming increasingly nuanced. Our Homebuying Sentiment Survey Report highlights that while 50% of prospective homebuyers are willing to purchase a property within the next 2 years, they are becoming more price-sensitive, risk-averse and selective in purchase decisions.”

Affordability continues to influence purchase decisions, with buyers looking for stronger price-value alignment and flexible payment options. Around 65% of respondents consider attractive pricing and flexible payment plans important factors that could support immediate purchase decisions.

The survey also highlights the dominance of end-user demand, with 51% of respondents planning to purchase homes for self-use. Additionally, 16% are considering second or vacation homes, indicating growing interest in lifestyle-oriented residential options.

Ready-to-move and near-completion properties remain the preferred choice among buyers, with more than 60% of respondents favouring these options over under-construction and newly launched projects. The preference reflects demand for possession certainty, lower execution risks and predictable timelines.

Vimal Nadar, National Director and Head of Research, Colliers India, said, “About 62% of potential homebuyers across major Indian markets prefer 2 & 3 BHK apartment configurations. While larger and spacious units are preferred more in cities like Delhi NCR, Bengaluru & Hyderabad, Mumbai continues to demonstrate strong demand for compact and right-sized units.”

The survey indicates that developers will need to align offerings with changing buyer preferences by balancing affordability, quality, connectivity and lifestyle features. Infrastructure development, premiumisation and well-connected residential communities are expected to remain key factors influencing housing demand.