Branded Residences in Emerging Markets: Is India Ready for a Luxury Real Estate Boom?

    By SQUAREA Knowledge Hub

    Published: April 7, 2025

    Real Estate in Pune - Branded Residences in Emerging Markets: Is India Ready for a Luxury Real Estate Boom?

    India’s luxury real estate market is undergoing a quiet transformation. Beyond aesthetics and prime addresses, homebuyers today are placing increasing value on identity, trust, and differentiated experiences. This shift is opening up space for branded residences in India—homes developed in collaboration with global names in hospitality, fashion, and design.

    Branded homes in India are beginning to resonate with a growing base of affluent buyers who seek more than conventional luxury. As expectations evolve and emerging real estate markets in India gain prominence, these projects are steadily making their way into mainstream investment conversations.

    The question now is whether India’s evolving market conditions can support a larger branded residential footprint. The answer lies in the numbers, the evolving buyer mindset, and the cities reshaping the future of luxury real estate in India.

    India’s Accelerating Luxury Real Estate Market

    To understand the rise of branded residences, we must first look at the overall trajectory of the luxury real estate market. According to Mordor Intelligence, India’s luxury residential real estate market is expected to grow from USD 44.11 billion in 2025 to USD 118.30 billion by 2030, at a CAGR of 21.81% during this period.

    This growth isn’t just about market size—it reflects a steady shift in buyer confidence. India’s expanding economy, rising incomes, and greater financial awareness are contributing to stronger demand in the premium housing segment.

    Luxury today is no longer limited to inherited wealth. Luxury buyers include first-generation entrepreneurs, professionals, and investors who are more attuned to global design, service, and lifestyle benchmarks. As this base grows, so does interest in luxury real estate in India—and particularly in branded residences.

    Luxury Home Sales and the Shift Towards Branded Living

    The appetite for homeownership, particularly in the upper-mid and luxury categories, has seen a remarkable shift. In 2024, India witnessed record-high residential sales of 302,867 units—an 11% year-on-year increase. Average annual sales during 2022–2024 surpassed pre-pandemic (2010–2019) averages by 63%, underscoring a permanent behavioural change in the housing market (JLL).

    Bengaluru, Mumbai, and Pune led the market, accounting for 62% of annual sales across the top seven cities. This performance highlights not just volume but rising confidence in premium segments, even amid sustained price appreciation.

    As more buyers prioritise design, privacy and service-backed living, the jump to branded residences in India becomes a natural progression. The growing comfort with premium pricing is further opening the door for branded homes in Pune and beyond.

    Branded Living: Why It’s More Than Just a Name

    This surge in luxury demand isn’t just about size or square footage. Today’s affluent homebuyer seeks experiences that blend design, service, and investment value. Branded residences deliver on all three fronts, offering globally curated aesthetics, hospitality-grade amenities and the trust that comes with established names.

    For developers, these partnerships elevate brand equity and differentiation. For buyers, they provide:

    • Assurance of quality and service
    • Global design and lifestyle sensibilities
    • Limited inventory and curated communities
    • Stronger resale value and long-term asset credibility

    As demand shifts toward long-term liveability and legacy asset creation, branded residences in India are emerging as a new language of premium real estate. This shift is being strongly reinforced by one of the most significant drivers of change in Indian real estate—the expansion of individual wealth.

    India’s Growing Wealth Base and the Future of Branded Real Estate

    The demand for branded residences is closely tied to the rise of India’s affluent population. According to the Knight Frank Wealth Report 2024, the number of ultra-high-net-worth individuals (UHNIs)—those with a net worth of USD 30 million or more—is projected to grow by 50%, reaching nearly 20,000 individuals by 2028.

    • Trust in global names
    • A consistent experience standard
    • Future asset appreciation

    This shift is further reinforced by projections from NAREDCO and Housing.com, which estimate that India’s branded residences segment will touch USD 5 billion by 2025. The segment’s expansion has been driven not just by rising disposable incomes but by the growing aspirational appeal of globally branded homes—offering a combination of design, trust, and legacy that traditional luxury formats often lack. Notably, this demand is no longer limited to metro cities alone, with emerging real estate markets in India steadily becoming hotspots for brand-aligned living.

    Why Emerging Markets Are Now in Focus

    While Mumbai and Delhi continue to dominate luxury real estate headlines, it is India’s emerging markets that are fuelling the next wave of growth. Cities like Pune, Hyderabad, and Ahmedabad are now delivering luxury at global standards, with the infrastructure, talent density, and buyer profiles to support it.

    Pune, in particular, has become a hub for branded homes. Projects such as Trump Towers Pune, YOO Pune, YOO Villas, and FashionTV-branded residences have already proven the city’s readiness for design-led global partnerships.

    With improved connectivity, rising launch volumes, and a more discerning luxury buyer base, cities like Pune are offering the perfect intersection of aspiration and affordability.

    India’s Luxury Real Estate Story Is Entering a New Chapter

    India’s luxury real estate market is entering a new phase—defined by maturity, investor confidence, and global alignment. And as India continues to grow in affluence and urban sophistication, branded residences in India are set to become a defining feature of the next wave of luxury living.

    At SQUAREA, we specialise in helping investors and end-users access India’s most iconic branded residences. Whether you’re seeking a globally designed home, a strategic long-term asset, or a lifestyle that reflects your achievements, our team is here to guide you with detailed market insights.

    Connect with us at hello@squarea.io or call +91 90 9641 9641 to explore exclusive opportunities in India’s evolving luxury real estate landscape.


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    28 October 2025
    Beyond Price Per Sq. Ft:The Key Metrics Every Real Estate Investor Should Know

    For many investors, price per square foot has long been the go-to measure for assessing property value. It’s simple, quantifiable, and allows quick comparison across projects. Yet, in a maturing market like India’s, where returns are influenced by far more than surface pricing, this metric tells only part of the story.

    Recent data reinforces this shift. According to the National Housing Bank, 45 out of 50 Indian cities recorded an annual increase in property prices in Q1 FY2025-26. Bengaluru saw a rise of 9.1%, followed by Chennai at 7%, Ahmedabad at 6.8%, and Pune at 6%. Such consistent appreciation highlights how investors are now evaluating properties through a broader lens, considering stability, growth, and long-term performance beyond just the price tag. (The Economic Times)

    The Boundaries of Price-Based Valuation

    Price per square foot remains a useful starting point. It helps assess affordability and benchmark projects within the same micro-market. But it does not account for the nuances that define true investment value, such as the location’s growth potential, build quality, developer reputation, or rental yield.

    Two assets priced similarly can perform very differently over time. To invest intelligently, investors and buyers must look past cost comparisons and focus on long-term fundamentals that drive performance and liquidity.

    Beyond the Numbers: How to Truly Assess a Real Estate Investment

    Smart real estate decisions are rooted in more than numbers. They rely on understanding the balance between asset quality, market resilience, and financial performance.

    1.Location and Infrastructure Strength

    Location continues to be the strongest value driver in Indian real estate. Properties close to metro lines, business districts, or upcoming infrastructure corridors tend to enjoy higher occupancy, appreciation, and resale demand. Pune’s example stands out, its office sector recorded 6.8 million sq. ft. of gross leasing in H1 2025 and is expected to surpass the 10 million sq. ft. mark this year (APN News). Such growth signals sustained corporate confidence and deep investment potential.

    2.Developer Reputation and Build Quality

    A project backed by a credible developer offers far more than just assurance of delivery. Strong design standards, timely execution, and efficient property management translate directly into tenant retention and long-term capital value. For investors, this often means better rental continuity and easier exits.

    3.Design Efficiency And Sustainability Factors

    Efficient layouts, ample natural light, and flexible floor designs enhance usability and tenant appeal. Green-certified buildings with energy-efficient systems and water conservation features reduce costs and increase asset longevity. As ESG priorities rise, such properties command stronger valuations and align better with institutional and HNI investment goals.

    4.Rental Yield and Cash Flow Stability

    Rental income plays a defining role in real estate performance. Residential properties typically generate yields of around 3.5-4%, offering steady but moderate cash flow. Commercial assets, on the other hand, can deliver 8-11%, depending on tenant quality and location (Asset Monk). In a lending environment where home loan rates range from 8.35% to 14.50% (Forbes India), such income-generating assets help investors maintain positive cash flow while naturally hedging against inflation.

    5.Market Liquidity and Exit Visibility

    Liquidity determines how easily an investor can monetise gains. Mature markets such as Bengaluru, Pune, and Hyderabad see steady leasing activity and robust institutional participation, offering smoother resale opportunities. Pune alone recorded 3.3 million sq. ft. of gross leasing in Q2 2025, marking a 13% year-on-year growth (Cushman & Wakefield). This depth ensures not only stable returns but also timely exit options when required.

    6.Tax Treatment and Regulatory Compliance

    Taxation and compliance have a direct impact on overall investment returns. Efficient tax planning through eligible deductions can improve post-tax yield, while understanding capital gains treatment helps optimise long-term outcomes. Clear property titles, RERA registration, and valid occupancy certificates ensure legal security and enhance the asset’s resale potential.

    7.Economic and Financing Context

    Broader economic factors shape real estate performance just as much as asset-level metrics. The Reserve Bank of India has maintained the repo rate at 6.5% for ten consecutive months, ensuring monetary stability. Retail inflation, however, rose to 5.49% in September 2024, highlighting the advantage of owning inflation-hedged, income-producing properties that preserve purchasing power over time. (Forbes India)

    The Smarter Lens: Evaluating Value Over Cost

    Price per square foot might define the entry cost, but it doesn’t determine investment success. The true measure of a property lies in its yield potential, liquidity, and alignment with long-term market trends. By analysing these dimensions together, investors can identify assets that deliver stability and sustained capital growth.

    At SQUAREA, we help investors move beyond surface pricing and focus on what truly defines performance. Our curated portfolio of premium properties is evaluated across key metrics: yield, liquidity, appreciation, and alignment with market growth, ensuring every acquisition fits seamlessly into your wealth strategy. For tailored investment guidance, reach out at hello@squarea.io or call +91 90 9641 9641.

    28 October 2025
    Pre-Leased Commercial Real Estate in India: A Gateway to Stable Returns

    India’s commercial property market is showing unprecedented momentum. Net absorption reached 49.56 million sq. ft. in 2024, while gross leasing climbed to 77.22 million sq. ft. across the top seven cities (JLL). By mid-2025, volumes had already crossed 39.45 million sq. ft., up 17.6% year-on-year, putting the market firmly on course for a record 90 million sq. ft. by year-end (Cushman & Wakefield).

    This growth is not just fuelling occupier demand but also reshaping how investors approach commercial real estate. In particular, pre-leased assets have emerged as a preferred choice for HNIs and UHNIs, combining immediate rental income with long-term stability. They deliver what few asset classes in India can offer today: visibility of cash flows, contractual protection, and yields far above traditional residential investments.

    What Is Pre-Leased Commercial Real Estate?

    A pre-leased commercial property comes with an active tenant contract at the time of acquisition. Investors secure both the asset and its running lease, ensuring immediate cash flow and freedom from construction or vacancy risk. Typical formats include:

    • Grade-A office spaces leased to IT, BFSI, or global corporates
    • High-street retail or mall units leased to anchor brands
    • Warehousing and logistics hubs leased to e-commerce and 3PL players (third-party logistics operators managing warehousing and distribution)

    This income visibility sets pre-leased assets apart from general speculative investments. The bigger story, however, is why they are becoming a preferred choice for India’s wealthiest investors.

    Why Pre-Leased Commercial Assets Appeal To HNIs And UHNIs

    For HNIs and UHNIs, pre-leased commercial real estate is gaining traction as it balances income visibility with disciplined wealth allocation. For wealth managers constructing multi-asset portfolios, the benefits include:

    • Stable income: Rental flows are secured from the very first day through active lease agreements, ensuring investors do not face vacancy or construction risk
    • Higher yields: Pre-leased Grade-A offices and retail assets typically generate 9-15% returns compared with 3-6% in residential property, offering a clear performance edge (Economic Times)
    • Inflation hedge: Escalation clauses of around 15% every 3 years help maintain real returns, protecting wealth against rising costs over time (Economic Times)
    • Portfolio diversification: As a non-correlated asset class, pre-leased CRE balances equities, debt, and residential holdings, reducing concentration risk in wealth portfolios
    • Predictability: Long-term contractual leases and strong tenant covenants create consistent, visible cash flows with minimal volatility
    • Loan benefits: As an investor, you can unlock liquidity through lease rental discounting (LRD), with EMIs serviced directly via tenant rents. The proceeds can also be used to upgrade the property and enhance long-term value (Construction Week)

    In an environment where equity and debt cycles can turn volatile, these qualities make pre-leased CRE a natural fit for wealth preservation and growth. The next step, however, is applying the right filters before entering this market.

    Factors To Evaluate Before Investing in Pre-Leased Commercial Assets

    Even with strong fundamentals, careful selection separates a sound allocation from a risky one. Investors should assess:

    • Tenant profile: Multinationals, banks, and listed corporates offer stronger lease commitments and payment reliability compared with startups or SMEs, reducing default risk
    • Lease structure: Lock-in periods, escalation terms, and renewal options determine the stability of rental income and long-term yield security
    • Location dynamics: Assets located near metro networks, Central Business Districts (CBDs), and established IT corridors enjoy stronger absorption and higher exit potential over time.
    • Asset quality: Grade-A developments with modern amenities and strong maintenance standards attract premium tenants and sustain occupancy levels.
    • Market comparables: Benchmarking against prevailing yields in the same micro-market helps validate pricing and ensures returns are in line with market performance.

    Thorough diligence ensures that the stability promised on paper translates into sustainable cash flow in practice. But beyond the security of individual assets, broader market dynamics are also tilting in favour of pre-leased commercial real estate, making this segment an even stronger long-term play.

    Outlook for Pre-Leased Assets in India’s Growth Cycle

    India’s office market is not just growing, it is proving to be one of the most resilient real estate segments globally. Institutional capital is rising sharply, and demand is widening across IT, BFSI, global capability centres, and organised retail. This strength is creating a steady tenant pipeline, while large domestic and global funds are building pre-leased portfolios, boosting liquidity and improving exit prospects.

    Building on this momentum, pre-leased assets are also moving beyond offices. The model is expanding into retail, warehousing, and even healthcare spaces, giving investors a wider pool of opportunities with strong yield potential. What was once seen as a tactical bet is now firmly a structural wealth strategy, combining steady income, capital growth, and inflation protection, while staying closely aligned with India’s long-term growth story.

    At SQUAREA, we provide curated access to India’s finest pre-leased assets, ensuring every allocation is performance-driven and future-ready. To explore opportunities tailored to your portfolio, contact us at hello@squarea.io or call +91 90 9641 9641.

    15 October 2025
    Things to Consider Before Buying a Resale Property

    Resale properties occupy a distinct niche in India’s housing market. They provide access to established micro-markets, immediate operational use, and, in certain cases, prime addresses where new supply is scarce or non-existent. For HNIs and UHNIs, these attributes translate into both strategic convenience and capital efficiency.

    Yet beneath the surface, resale transactions can carry risks such as unclear titles, compliance gaps, unpaid dues, and underestimated renovation costs. To make sound decisions, investors need to approach resale acquisitions with the same diligence and discipline applied to large-scale allocations.

    Key Considerations When Evaluating Resale Investments

    A sound decision depends on clear legal checks, the property’s condition, true ownership costs, and market liquidity. Here’s what you should carefully examine before committing capital:

    Title and Ownership Clarity

    A clean, marketable title is the foundation of any secure transaction. Review the full chain of title deeds and obtain an encumbrance certificate to confirm the property is free from mortgages or disputes. Where multiple transfers have taken place, gaps in records can appear. A professional title search by a real estate lawyer is strongly advised for high-value purchases.

    Regulatory Compliance and Approvals

    Regulatory checks are critical, especially for older projects. Under Maharashtra’s RERA, over 29,000 complaints have been filed by buyers, with nearly 24,000 tied to pre-RERA projects and a resolution rate of about 74% (Hindustan Times).

    Always verify RERA registration, ensure the sanctioned plan matches the constructed structure, and confirm occupancy and fire NOCs. A property backed by proper approvals protects both financing and long-term value.

    Seller Authority and Legal Documentation

    Confirm that the seller has full legal authority to transact. Match PAN or Aadhaar details to the title deed and ensure all co-owners provide written consent. In case of inheritance, check probate or succession papers. Where minors are involved, court permissions are mandatory.

    Go beyond the original sale deed and insist on a detailed Agreement to Sell covering inclusions, handover timelines, indemnities, and penalties. Factor in stamp duty, registration, and society transfer fees, ensuring all documents are correctly recorded.

    Society Clearances and No-Dues

    Resale homes often carry legacy liabilities like unpaid taxes, utility bills, or maintenance charges. Always obtain a No-Dues Certificate from the society and written confirmations from municipal and utility authorities. Record meter readings at handover so outstanding consumption does not become your liability. Ensuring financial closure at this stage avoids unnecessary disputes later.

    Physical Condition and CapEx Plan

    Time and use leave their mark on any property. Structural cracks, outdated wiring, or waterproofing issues can demand significant expenditure. HNIs and UHNIs should budget realistically for upgrades. An independent audit by an engineer or architect helps surface hidden risks across the structure, MEP systems, and safety features. This allows you to create a clear CapEx plan that aligns the property with modern standards while protecting long-term value.

    Valuation, Finance and Exit

    Resale buyers enjoy tax benefits under Section 80C (₹1.5 lakh on principal repayment) and Section 24(b) (₹2 lakh on interest) (Income Tax Department). Alongside these, factor in higher maintenance in older societies, premium community charges, and periodic upgrade reserves. For financing, check lender policies as some restrict loans on very old or non-compliant assets.

    Benchmark value using recent deals in the same project and cross-check with broker opinions. Factor in price differences between renovated and original units, and consider upcoming infrastructure that may drive demand. Align the property’s resale ease with your planned holding period, as prime compliant homes typically sell faster.

    That said, when approached with discipline, resale properties offer clear advantages to both end-use buyers and long-term investors, combining immediate utility with strategic capital appreciation.

    Why Resale Properties Can Be Strategic Investments

    When assessed through this lens, resale is a strategic allocation. You gain immediate rental potential, avoid construction risk, and access coveted, fully built urban locations. For investors focused on wealth preservation and legacy, the combination of speed, location, and optionality can be compelling, provided diligence is uncompromising.

    How SQUAREA Simplifies The Resale Journey

    SQUAREA applies institutional discipline to every resale mandate so you acquire with clarity and exit with confidence.

    • Title and Compliance: End-to-end verification across land records, sanctioned plans, RERA, and OCs/CCs
    • Technical Diligence: Independent condition audits and quantified renovation budgets to surface hidden liabilities
    • Market Intelligence: Micro-market pricing, resale velocity, buyer mix and forward drivers to inform entry and exit
    • Deal Architecture: Structuring terms, inclusions and tax efficiency to protect returns

    This framework transforms resale acquisitions into informed, deliberate decisions that align with both performance and peace of mind. For tailored guidance and exclusive access to India’s most compelling resale opportunities, contact hello@squarea.io or call +91 90 9641 9641.