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      Buying Your First Home: Is There an “Ideal Age”?

      By SQUAREA Knowledge Hub

      Published: February 28, 2024

      The decision to buy your first property is one of the biggest milestones in a person’s life and the timing of this investment can be crucial. Many factors can impact the decision to buy property, including financial stability, savings, life goals, and family dynamics. And different life stages come with different financial conditions and priorities.

      But then is there an “ideal age” to buy a property? The short answer is “no”. The long answer is – there is no “one size fits all” answer to this question as real estate investment at different ages comes with different benefits and challenges. And although the average age of first-time home buyers has seen a drastic shift in recent years, the ideal age for you to buy a home will depend on things like home loan eligibility, EMI affordability, ownership responsibilities, and your risk profile.

      So what is it like to buy a home at different stages of your life?

      Buying Young (In 20s and 30s)

      With the rapidly increasing purchasing power of Indian youth, many are opting to buy their first home in their 20s and 30s. Young buyers can let their investment mature over decades as the property values appreciate while they benefit from reduced tax liabilities. Additionally, entering the buying cycle young is better for financial planning and flexibility as you have little to no debt and family obligations, and you can focus on paying off a large proportion of your home loan before taking on any additional responsibilities.

      The only drawback of buying young is you do not have enough savings for the down payment and have to take out a bigger loan. Additionally, you also cannot anticipate your family dynamics and shared life goals going forward, which means you may have to look at different properties as you move forward.

      Buying in Mid-Life (In 40s and 50s)

      Mid-life is often associated with career growth, a higher earning potential, more disposable income, and a strong credit history. As a result, buying property at this stage is more financially feasible and you can explore a wider range of choices when it comes to property size, style, and location. And with your earning potential, you can also opt for longer loan tenure to manage your EMI obligations and benefit from reduced tax liabilities.

      Additionally, you can also factor in your life goals and family dynamics in purchase decisions at this stage, where your life partner can increase your purchasing power and you can buy a home that aligns with both of your goals. Keeping family at the forefront, you can focus on providing a stable and comfortable life for your family, better educational opportunities for your children, and a secure future for all.

      Buying in Pre-Retirement and Retirement (In and After 60s)

      Your homeownership priorities and opinions may change as you move closer to retirement. You may want to downsize to a more manageable home that offers better amenities, is in an area with a more suitable climate, or is closer to your relatives. Moreover, at this stage, you probably have a principal residence and can invest in secondary properties for rental income.

      Financial stability and growth at this stage may mean that you can buy the property outright with your savings and not have to rely on loans. However, if you decide to opt for a home loan, you may not be eligible for more favourable loan terms due to your advanced age and limited earning potential.

      It is clear that there is no “ideal right age” to buy property. You need to consider your unique situation, requirements, financial stability, priorities, and risk profile when making that decision. Each stage in your life comes with different challenges and benefits when it comes to home ownership. You must weigh them and look at the market conditions when buying your first home.

      No matter when you decide to buy a home, the Squarea team can help you find the best luxury homes. Get in touch with us today to find your dream home.

      For more details on this subject, please email hello@squarea.io


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      2 April 2025
      The Psychology of Prestige: Why UHNIs Prefer Branded Residences Over Traditional Luxury Homes

      Luxury real estate today is defined by more than just prime locations and exquisite design, it is about identity, association, and the influence of a globally recognized name. For Ultra-High-Net-Worth Individuals (UHNIs), a home is not just a place to live but a reflection of personal taste, influence, and a carefully curated lifestyle. This evolving mindset is reshaping India’s luxury housing market, driving a clear shift towards signature residences by luxury brands over traditional luxury homes.

      In recent years, this segment has moved from niche to mainstream. Branded residences command a 30% price premium globally on average, yet continue to experience strong absorption, particularly in luxury growth markets like India. The demand is no longer just about luxury, it’s about what the brand signifies: status, trust, lifestyle, and investment stability.

      Branded Residences: A New Language of Luxury

      Unlike conventional high-end homes, a branded residence is created in partnership with an international brand. Collaborations span across fashion, hospitality, design, and automotive brands such as Armani, Versace or Four Seasons, names that already hold strong recognition in the minds of buyers. These partnerships introduce a specific design approach, a high-end service model, and a commitment to quality that differentiates these residences within the high-end real estate market.

      While the concept originated in the early 20th century, it has evolved into a strategic asset class, combining high-end living with brand-driven desirability. Today, buyers’ high-net-worth lifestyle choices are acting as a driving force behind the rise of branded residences over traditional luxury homes.

      Why UHNIs Gravitate Towards Branded Residences

      As seen earlier, for Ultra-High-Net-Worth Individuals, the value of a property is increasingly defined by the lifestyle it offers and the narrative it holds. What truly sets branded residences apart from traditional luxury homes is the ecosystem of access, service, and elevated living that comes with them.

      Key differentiators include:

      • Concierge services: 24x7 lifestyle management, including personal assistance, reservations, guest services, and event coordination
      • Signature amenities: Spa lounges, wine cellars, art galleries, private screening rooms, wellness zones, and more, curated to reflect brand identity
      • Professional asset management: Housekeeping, maintenance, landscaping, and security handled to international hospitality standards.
      • Brand-linked privileges: Access to global experiences, memberships, or loyalty networks based on brand affiliations
      • World-class interior design: Brand-conceptualised layouts, materials, and detailing that surpass conventional luxury homes
      • Curated resident community: Like-minded homeowners who value privacy, sophistication, and cultural refinement

      Ultimately, these homes align with evolving high-net-worth lifestyle choices, where emotional resonance, brand identity, and exclusivity carry equal weight as tangible specifications.

      Investment Value: Why Branded Real Estate Delivers More

      Branded residences offer distinct investment advantages over traditional luxury homes, delivering stronger capital appreciation, higher rental yields, and better resale value. Their exclusivity is maintained through limited inventory and sustained demand, while brand affiliation enhances buyer confidence and market desirability. Additionally, professional asset management ensures consistent upkeep, preserving long-term value and making these properties particularly appealing to high-net-worth tenants and international investors.

      As per a recent report on exclusive high-end property market insights, the branded residence segment in India is poised for a 60% growth by 2027, reflecting sustained confidence in this model among both investors and developers. These properties are more than just high-end real estate, they offer a refined living experience while delivering strong investment potential and long-term value.

      Pune: An Emerging Market for Branded Residences

      Mumbai and Delhi NCR remain key hubs for luxury real estate, but Pune is seeing increased activity in the branded residences segment. Rising income levels, ongoing urban development, and a growing base of high-net-worth individuals (HNIs) are driving demand. With an expanding portfolio of luxury developments, Pune is positioning itself as a viable market for branded residences within India’s luxury real estate landscape.

      Signature branded projects in the city include:

      • YOO PUNE by Philippe Starck: India's first ready-to-move-in YOO branded residences, set within 13 acres of lush greenery in Hadapsar, Pune, offering designer-led living crafted by renowned designer Philippe Starck
      • YOO Villas: Serene villa community designed for sophisticated living, blending nature with elegant interiors, crafted in collaboration with the YOO brand and styled by internationally acclaimed designer Kelly Hoppen.
      • Trump Towers Pune: India’s first ready-to-move-in Trump Towers branded residences offering exceptional design, world-class amenities, and the signature Trump lifestyle in the heart of Pune.
      • YOO ONE: Designed by Sussanne Khan for YOO, this modern icon blends craftsmanship and thoughtful details to create a harmonious and inspiring living experience.

      Luxury living is evolving, moving beyond grandeur to personal identity and beyond expansive spaces to meaningful design. Ultra-luxury residences today are as much about aspiration as they are about financial performance. Branded residences, in particular, stand at this intersection, offering exclusivity, lasting value, and a sense of belonging. With limited availability and strong demand, they continue to shape the future of India’s high-end real estate market.

      At SQUAREA, our team of experts understand that luxury is no longer transactional, it’s transformational. Whether you’re acquiring a legacy asset or investing in your next statement home, we bring you access to the finest branded residences India has to offer. For more details, get in touch with us at hello@squarea.io or contact +91 90 9641 9641

      1 April 2025
      The Rise of the Luxury Real Estate Market in India: A New Era of High-End Property Investment

      Luxury real estate in India is not just evolving—it’s booming. Luxury housing sales in India, particularly for units priced at ₹4 crore and above, recorded a 37.8% year-on-year growth during the January-September 2024 period, according to CBRE. The surge underscores sustained demand from both end-users and investors. High-end living is no longer a niche, it’s a defining choice for the discerning. Let’s deep dive into what’s causing this shift in buyer behavior.

      A Surge Driven by New Buyer Priorities

      India’s luxury residential market is evolving, driven by changing buyer preferences and a younger, globally exposed demographic. With nearly 20% of the country’s HNIs now under 40, demand is shifting towards smart, sustainable, and experience-driven living.

      Post-pandemic lifestyle changes have further fueled the preference for expansive homes with dedicated wellness zones and workspaces. Branded residences are also gaining traction, offering assured quality and premium amenities. As developers respond to these trends, luxury real estate continues to position itself as both an aspirational choice and a stable investment avenue.

      The Appeal of High-End Real Estate Investments

      India’s luxury and ultra-luxury housing segments continue to gain momentum, with the total sales value of ultra-luxury homes across the top seven cities reaching approximately ₹4,754 crore in 2024—marking a 17% increase from the previous year (Anarock Research). This surge highlights growing investor confidence in high-end real estate as a resilient and profitable asset class.

      Several factors contribute to the strength of this segment:

      • Price Stability: Luxury properties tend to hold value better during market fluctuations.
      • Scarcity & Exclusivity: Limited supply keeps demand steady.
      • Wealth Preservation: These assets align well with long-term financial and lifestyle strategies.
      • Higher Rental Yields:Premium homes in high-demand micro-markets offer strong rental potential.

      Developers are expanding their ultra-luxury portfolios to meet this demand. Notably, DLF’s latest ₹4,000 crore project near Delhi saw all 173 units sell out within weeks, reinforcing the market’s strong appetite for high-end living. With evolving buyer preferences, rising disposable incomes, and increasing institutional investments, luxury real estate remains a key driver of India’s residential market.(Reuters).

      Why Pune is the Market to Watch

      While Mumbai and Delhi have traditionally dominated India’s luxury housing market, Pune is fast emerging as a prime destination for high-end real estate investment. With a rising base of high-net-worth individuals (HNIs), a thriving IT and business ecosystem, and improving infrastructure, the city is witnessing a surge in demand for premium residences.

      Key micro-markets such as Koregaon Park, Kalyani Nagar, and Baner have become hubs for luxury living, offering world-class amenities, contemporary architecture, and exclusive lifestyle experiences. Branded residences, expansive penthouses, and tech-enabled smart homes are increasingly shaping Pune’s high-end residential landscape.

      Unlike Mumbai, where luxury real estate comes at a steep premium, Pune still offers a relatively attractive entry point for investors. The combination of strong rental yields, capital appreciation potential, and a growing affluent buyer base makes Pune a compelling market for both end-users and long-term investors looking to diversify their real estate portfolios.

      NRIs Turning to Premium Indian Real Estate

      Over 80% of developers anticipate an increase in housing demand from NRIs, driven by India's attractive investment landscape and favorable regulatory environment (Colliers). While emotional ties remain a factor, NRI investors are increasingly drawn to premium properties for their global-standard amenities, strong rental yields, and long-term wealth preservation.

      Favorable exchange rates, simplified digital buying processes, and improved transparency in real estate regulations have made investing in India more seamless than ever. Among emerging investment hubs, Pune stands out due to its robust infrastructure, cosmopolitan lifestyle, and high-quality educational and healthcare institutions. Areas like Kalyani Nagar, Koregaon Park, and Baner offer luxury residences that cater to global living standards, making Pune a strategic choice for NRIs looking to invest in high-end real estate with both lifestyle and financial returns in mind.

      Looking Ahead: The Future of Luxury Real Estate in India

      The road ahead is promising. As per a joint report by Knight Frank and the National Real Estate Development Council (Naredeco), India’s real estate sector is projected to reach $5.8 trillion by 2047, with its contribution to GDP expected to double from 7.3% to 15.5%.

      As aspirations continue to rise and wealth creation deepens, luxury real estate in India will remain a powerful asset class, blending emotional fulfillment with robust financial returns. And in that narrative, Pune luxury real estate will continue to be a frontrunner, driven by sound fundamentals, long-term growth potential, and an evolving urban lifestyle

      Additionally, regulatory reforms, enhanced transparency, and a maturing real estate ecosystem are making luxury housing a more attractive and secure investment. With India’s HNI population expected to grow at a double-digit rate in the coming years, the appetite for luxury real estate will likely remain strong. Looking ahead, the sector is set to expand beyond just homes—integrating mixed-use luxury developments, curated experiences, and global partnerships to redefine high-end living in India.

      In a market where timing, insight, and access make all the difference, SQUAREA brings you closer to India’s most elite addresses. Whether you’re expanding your high-end real estate portfolio, exploring investment opportunities as an NRI, or acquiring your first ultra-luxury residence in Pune, we offer expert curation and discreet advisory tailored to your needs. For more details, get in touch with us at hello@squarea.io or contact +91 90 9641 9641

      15 February 2025
      The first-ever Global Investments, Mobility & Education Roadshow 2025 at Hyatt Pune by SQUAREA and Henley Global

      PUNE, MAHARASHTRA, INDIA, February 13, 2025 / EINPresswire.com / -- This Sunday, 16th February, SQUAREA presents GIME 2025, Pune’s first-of-its-kind Global Investments, Mobility & Education Roadshow, in partnership with Henley & Partners at Hyatt Pune, Kalyani Nagar. This exclusive event is designed for investors, entrepreneurs, and families looking to secure global residency and citizenship through investment-led routes. As economic landscapes evolve and international mobility becomes increasingly valuable, GIME 2025 will host global experts and offer strategic guidance into International Golden Visa, Permanent Residency, and Citizenship Programs, through cross-border wealth planning, investment, and business expansion routes.

      The event will host programs and country experts from the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Greece, Portugal, and Latvia. Key programs up for discussion will include the U.S. EB-5 Immigrant Investor Visa, which offers an expedited route to the U.S. Green Card; Portugal’s Golden Residence Permit, a preferred option for those looking to secure Schengen residency through investment; and Canada’s Start-Up Visa Program, designed for tech entrepreneurs aiming to establish and scale businesses in North America. The event will also offer Greece’s Golden Visa, the United Kingdom’s Business Investment and Citizenship Program, and Latvia’s Residency by Investment Program. Alongside, UAE’s Golden Visa Program will also be present.

      In an era where investment migration is increasingly becoming a critical component of growth and lifestyle planning, GIME 2025 aims to bridge the gap between investors and global opportunities.