Luxury Real Estate in India Flourishes as NRIs and HNIs Drive Demand Surge

8th May 2025

4 Min Read

India’s luxury real estate market is in the midst of a remarkable transformation, propelled by the aspirations and investments of high-net-worth individuals (HNIs) and non-resident Indians (NRIs). In the heart of bustling metros, a new era is unfolding-one defined by world-class living, integrated communities, and the promise of lasting value.

A Market Transformed by Global Aspirations

Once dominated by domestic buyers, India’s premium property market now finds itself at the crossroads of global wealth and local opportunity. According to recent industry reports, NRIs and HNIs are not just participating-they are setting the pace. In Delhi NCR, nearly 59% of new housing launches are priced above ₹2.5 crore, while Hyderabad and Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR) also witness a significant share of ultra-premium homes. This surge is more than a trend; it’s a testament to the growing appetite for secure, high-yield investments and luxury lifestyles.

The NRI Effect: Trust, Technology, and Transformation

NRIs are playing a pivotal role, accounting for 20–25% of investments in new luxury projects. Their choices reflect a clear preference for established, compliance-driven developers who deliver on promises-a trust built steadily since the implementation of RERA in 2017. Digital transformation has further empowered NRIs, allowing them to explore, evaluate, and invest in Indian properties from anywhere in the world.

“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,” notes Ravi Aggarwal, co-founder of Signature Global.

Gurugram and Beyond: New Epicenters of Luxury

While Mumbai remains the traditional nucleus of luxury real estate, cities like Gurugram, Hyderabad, and Bangalore are quickly rising as magnets for affluent buyers. Gurugram, in particular, has become synonymous with record-breaking sales and integrated urban communities, with developers focusing on strategic corridors such as Southern Peripheral Road and Dwarka Expressway. These locations offer a blend of connectivity, modern infrastructure, and vibrant neighborhoods-qualities that resonate with both NRIs and HNIs.

Developers Rise to the Challenge

Established brands like Godrej Properties, Signature Global, and Macrotech Developers are leading the charge. Their robust sales growth-31%, 42%, and 21% year-on-year respectively-underscores the market’s confidence in trusted players. These developers are not only delivering premium homes but also driving sector consolidation, reshaping the competitive landscape, and setting new benchmarks for quality and innovation.

A Lifestyle Revolution: Integrated Living and Global Standards

Today’s premium buyers seek more than just a home-they desire a holistic lifestyle. Integrated townships, such as Krisumi City near Gurugram’s Dwarka Expressway, are redefining urban living by offering a seamless blend of work, leisure, and community life. Superior infrastructure, global aesthetics, and future-ready amenities have become the new standard, attracting discerning buyers from across the globe.

The Road Ahead: Sustained Growth and Evolving Opportunities

As India’s luxury real estate sector continues its robust ascent, the momentum shows no signs of slowing. NRIs and HNIs are expected to remain at the forefront, drawn by the promise of capital appreciation, rental yields, and the security of investing in a stable, growing economy. With developers aligning their offerings to meet evolving expectations, the market is poised for sustained expansion and innovation well into the future.