Many buyers seek 3 BHK homes

Hyderabad sees stronger preference for larger residences

Property Pulse

Homebuyer preferences are shifting towards larger residences, with 3 BHK homes emerging as the preferred configuration for a significant share of buyers. The trend reflects changing household requirements, greater demand for dedicated workspaces and a preference for additional living space.

According to ANAROCK’s Consumer Sentiment Survey, which covered 8,320 prospective homebuyers across 14 cities, 48 per cent of respondents nationally preferred 3 BHK homes, compared with 38 per cent for 2 BHK residences. Hyderabad recorded a 52 per cent preference for 3 BHK homes, placing it among the cities with a strong inclination towards larger configurations.

Preference changes

Homebuyer preferences have changed over the past several years. Before the pandemic, affordability was a major consideration and smaller homes accounted for a larger share of demand. The pandemic increased interest in larger homes as households sought additional space for working and studying from home. Economic uncertainty subsequently brought affordability back into focus.

The latest survey indicates that the preference for additional space is gaining ground again, particularly in the 3 BHK segment. The preference for 4 BHK and larger homes has also increased, rising from around 3 per cent in the first half of 2024 to nearly 5 per cent in H1 2026. Ahmedabad recorded the highest preference for 3 BHK homes at 57 per cent, followed by Delhi and Chennai at 53 per cent each. Hyderabad stood at 52 per cent.

Larger family requirements, dedicated work-from-home areas, children’s rooms and the desire for additional flexible space are among the factors supporting the preference for bigger homes. The shift is also influencing the type of homes being considered by buyers, particularly in the mid-segment and premium categories.

₹90 lakh–₹1.5 crore emerges as key budget

The preference for larger homes is accompanied by higher budget expectations. The survey found that 34 per cent of respondents preferred homes priced between ₹90 lakh and ₹1.5 crore. Another 27 per cent were considering homes priced above ₹1.5 crore.

As prices rise in established locations, buyers are also looking at suburban markets where larger homes may be available at comparatively lower land costs. Interest in plots is also increasing among some buyers who prefer to build homes according to their own requirements.

For developers, the changing preference points towards continued demand for larger configurations, particularly where projects can combine additional living space with amenities and connectivity.

SPACE SHIFT.

• Three BHK preference reached 52 per cent.

• Two BHK preference stood at 38 per cent.

• Ahmedabad recorded highest three BHK preference.

• Four BHK demand reached nearly 5 per cent.

• 34 per cent preferred ₹90 lakh–₹1.5 crore.

• 27 per cent considered higher budgets.