Homebuyers prefer 3BHKs, ₹90 lakh-₹1.5 crore homes as demand for larger houses rises: Report

Indian homebuyers are increasingly opting for larger homes and are willing to consider higher budgets, with 3BHK properties emerging as the most preferred configuration, according to the Anarock Consumer Sentiment Survey – H1 2026. Nearly half, or 48% of respondents, said they prefer 3BHK homes, while the ₹90 lakh-₹1.5 crore price bracket emerged as the most preferred budget segment.

The survey covered 8,320 respondents aged 23-77 years across 14 cities and points to a continued shift towards bigger configurations. While 3BHKs account for 48% of preferences, 2BHK homes remain popular, with 38% of respondents choosing them. Demand for 4BHK and larger homes has also increased to nearly 5%, compared with around 3% in H1 2024.

The preference for 3BHK homes is particularly strong in several major markets. Ahmedabad recorded the highest preference, at 57%, followed by Chennai and Delhi-NCR at 53% each and Hyderabad at 52%. Bengaluru recorded 46%, Kolkata 46% and Pune 47%. Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR) had the lowest 3BHK preference among the surveyed markets, at 39%.

₹90 lakh-₹1.5 crore emerges as preferred budget

Alongside the preference for larger configurations, buyers are increasingly gravitating towards higher-value homes. About 34% of respondents preferred properties priced between ₹90 lakh and ₹1.5 crore, making it the most preferred budget bracket. Another 27% were looking at homes priced above ₹1.5 crore.

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The survey indicates that the preference for lower-priced homes has weakened over time, while demand for higher-value properties has strengthened. This suggests that buyers continue to prioritise space, configuration and overall housing quality even as property prices rise.

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New launches preferred over ready homes

Buyer preferences also extend to the type of property being purchased. New launches were preferred by 34% of respondents, compared with 18% who preferred ready-to-move-in homes.

Among buyers considering new launches, the reputation of the developer emerged as the biggest consideration, cited by 34% of respondents. Location followed at 21%, while price accounted for 15% and construction quality for 12%.

Buyers adapt as prices rise

Despite the preference for larger and more expensive homes, affordability remains a key concern. About 65% of respondents expressed worries over a potential surge in property prices. However, purchase intent remains intact, with 44% saying they would proceed with their buying plans, while 38% may delay their purchase slightly.

Affordability pressures are also influencing where and how buyers plan to purchase. Around 31% of respondents said they were shifting from buying to renting, while 20% were considering peripheral locations.

The survey also highlights that housing demand remains primarily end-user driven, with 68% of respondents purchasing homes for self-use. Overall, the findings point to buyers balancing affordability with a clear preference for more space, larger configurations and newer properties.

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