India’s luxury housing sector is expanding, but buyer expectations are evolving beyond prestigious addresses and premium amenities. A CBRE–ASSOCHAM report released in July 2025 found that luxury home sales across seven major residential markets increased 85% year-on-year in the first half of 2025 to approximately 7,000 units. Mumbai recorded around 1,240 sales, marking 29% annual growth.
For affluent buyers, luxury increasingly means spacious living, privacy, reliable construction, convenient connectivity and more time for personal priorities. This shift is influencing residential development across Mumbai, including established western suburban locations such as Kandivali, where connectivity, social infrastructure and access to greenery contribute to the appeal.
Space and privacy take centre stage
With land increasingly scarce in Mumbai, spacious homes have become particularly desirable. Buyers are looking beyond carpet area to flexible layouts, larger three- and four-bedroom apartments, comfortable living spaces and outdoor areas. Homes that accommodate remote working, guests and multi-generational families are gaining relevance.
Privacy is another important consideration. Features such as fewer apartments per floor, controlled access, well-planned lobbies and efficient lift arrangements can provide greater comfort in a densely populated city. Developers are being encouraged to incorporate privacy into the overall design rather than treating it as a marketing feature.
Natural surroundings and useful amenities
Views of greenery, natural light and open surroundings can enhance a home’s long-term appeal. Kandivali’s proximity to Sanjay Gandhi National Park highlights the value of access to natural landscapes, particularly where protected surroundings help preserve open views.
Buyers are also assessing whether amenities genuinely improve everyday life. Fitness facilities, landscaped gardens, children’s play areas and spaces for older residents are valuable when thoughtfully designed and maintained. Nearby healthcare, schools, shopping and dining options further strengthen a property’s appeal.
Connectivity and developer credibility
For professionals and business leaders, convenient access to metro services, major roads and employment centres can reduce commuting time and improve work-life balance.
Trust also remains essential. Construction quality, transparent dealings, timely delivery and long-term maintenance influence purchase decisions. CBRE’s July 2025 report, The New Paradigm in Indian Housing, highlights developer reputation, execution history, inventory availability and local market conditions as important factors in residential sales.
Rima Kirtikar, Chief Marketing Officer, Shapoorji Pallonji Real Estate, highlights a broader shift in buyer priorities: luxury is increasingly defined by how effectively a home improves everyday living, rather than simply by its appearance or size.
Source: ANI
