Women Homebuyers Surge 14% in 2024, Boosting Real Estate Market

The number of residential property purchases by women in India surged by 14 per cent in 2024, with 1.29 lakh transactions recorded across major cities, according to a report by Square Yards. This growth rate outpaced the 11 per cent rise in transactions by male buyers during the same period.

Data from Square Yards’ report, ‘Key Holders of Change - Women Driving Real Estate Growth and Transformation,’ shows a steady rise in female ownership in cities including Mumbai, Navi Mumbai, Thane, Pune, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Noida, Greater Noida, and Ghaziabad. In 2024, a total of 5.77 lakh residential transactions were registered, reflecting a 4 per cent annual increase from 5.56 lakh in 2023. Women’s share in these transactions climbed to 22 per cent, up from 20 per cent the previous year.

In contrast, transactions by sole male buyers increased from 1.96 lakh in 2023 to 2.18 lakh in 2024, while joint ownership by men and women saw a 7 per cent decline, dropping from 2.47 lakh to 2.30 lakh transactions. Despite the decrease, joint ownership remained the dominant category, accounting for 40 per cent of total residential transactions.

Square Yards COO and Founder, Kanika Gupta Shori, noted that rising financial independence, greater workforce participation, and increasing awareness are key factors driving more women to invest in property. She highlighted that women are becoming significant decision-makers in real estate, and their growing presence in the market is evident in the 14 per cent annual increase in transactions. This shift reflects changing economic and social dynamics, with more women securing their financial futures through homeownership.

Square Yards CEO and Founder, Tanuj Shori, highlighted the growing influence of female homebuyers, stating that women are reshaping the property market. He noted that 53 per cent of the company's clientele consists of women purchasing homes as sole or joint owners. The increasing number of female property buyers indicates a significant transformation in real estate trends, with long-term implications for the housing sector.

A combination of financial benefits, policy support, and technological advancements has contributed to this rise. Several state governments provide a reduction of 1–3 per cent in stamp duty and lower registration fees for female buyers. Banks and financial institutions also offer a 0.05% concession on home loan interest rates for women, further encouraging homeownership. Additionally, tax incentives under Sections 80C, 80EE, and 24b help reduce financial burdens, making property ownership more feasible for women.

Technological advancements have played a crucial role in this shift. Digital platforms enable women to access real estate listings, mortgage calculators, and financial planning tools, allowing them to make informed investment decisions. Fintech innovations and digital payment systems have also improved accessibility, empowering more women to enter the housing market with confidence.

Government policies continue to support female homeownership. Under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY), it is mandatory to register at least one female member as a property owner. The Credit Linked Subsidy Scheme (CLSS) under PMAY offers first-time homebuyers a subsidy of up to Rs 2.67 lakh. Several states, including Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, Jammu & Kashmir, and Assam, provide stamp duty concessions ranging from 1 per cent to 3 per cent for women. Many banks also extend lower interest rates for female applicants, making home loans more affordable.

With increasing financial independence and sustained policy support, the trend of women investing in real estate is expected to grow further. As digital platforms and financial incentives continue to enhance accessibility, industry experts predict a continued rise in female homeownership in the coming years.