Homebuying Survey 2026: Buying a home is often seen as one of the biggest achievements in a person's life. People spend years working, saving and planning for a home of their dreams. Yet, for many, owning a house remains a dream that never turns into reality.

Given the changing spending habits and growing resources, the new generation is more inclined towards buying a home. This sentiment was also reflected in a recent survey by investment management firm Colliers International.

The survey revealed that nearly 50% of prospective homebuyers are looking to purchase a house within the next two years. The Colliers Homebuying Sentiment Survey 2026, which covered around 1,800 respondents across more than 30 residential markets, found that buyers are interested in owning homes but are also becoming more careful about their spending.

Key Factors Influencing Their Decisions

Affordability:

Affordability remains the biggest concern for homebuyers. The survey showed that around 31% consider property prices as their primary concern. Around 46% prefer homes priced between Rs 50 lakh and Rs 1.5 crore, with many looking for flexible payment plans.

Right Size And Layout:

Price is not the only factor. Around 75-80% consider unit size and layout important while choosing a property. About 62% of prospective buyers prefer 2 and 3 BHK homes, as per the survey.

Sheeshram Yadav, Managing Director, Yugen Infra Pvt Ltd, said buyers are now looking beyond the price of a property. "The finding that nearly 50% of prospective homebuyers are looking to purchase within the next two years reflects the underlying strength of housing demand in India. At the same time, buyers today are more informed and careful about where they put their money," he said.

"Affordability remains important, but the decision is no longer based on price alone. Buyers are looking at the size and layout of the home, connectivity, social infrastructure, safety and the overall quality of the development," he added.

Connectivity And Infrastructure:

Location continues to be an important part of the homebuying decision. Around 75-80% of respondents consider social infrastructure and connectivity important. Access to transport links, schools, healthcare facilities, workplaces and other daily-use services can influence the choice of a property.

Ready Homes More Preferred:

More than 60% of respondents prefer ready-to-move homes and look for greater certainty over possession. "Ready or near-completion homes are also finding greater interest, as home buyers want more certainty around when they can move in and start using the property. This is also changing what people expect from a residential project," Sheeshram Yadav said.

"Location and connectivity matter, but so do the things that make daily life easier, from nearby social infrastructure to the planning and quality of the development. These are becoming important considerations when buyers compare their options," he added.

Around 51% of respondents said they plan to buy a home for self-use, showing that the demand is largely linked to homeownership and changing lifestyle needs.