Women are buying more homes in Chennai, and Bala Ramajayam's G Square Housing

Chennai's residential real estate market is witnessing a notable shift, women are increasingly stepping up as independent home buyers. Financial independence, a sense of safety, and a growing investment mindset are being cited as the primary drivers behind this emerging trend.

The numbers from the recently held three-day property exhibition, CREDAI FAIRPRO, paint a clear picture. Of the 460 confirmed bookings that clocked ₹451 crore in sales, 33% were made by women, meaning one in every three bookings at the event was by a woman buyer. "This reflects a steady rise in independent ownership and investments led by women working professionals," said Navin Kumar, Treasurer, CREDAI Chennai.

Industry experts point to a combination of practical and aspirational reasons behind this shift. Sanjay Chugh, City Head and Director, Anarock, noted that women buyers largely prefer 1 BHK or 2 BHK homes in localities that offer good connectivity and safety. "With financial independence, many women see real estate as an investment portfolio. It offers them a sense of security. Besides, finding a house for rent in the city for women is challenging. So, many prefer paying EMI for their own house rather than rent and advance," he said.

The preference for ownership over renting reflects a broader change in how women in Chennai are approaching long-term financial planning. Real estate, traditionally seen as a family or joint purchase, is increasingly being treated as a personal asset, one that offers both stability and appreciation over time. "Buyers see plots as flexible assets that offer both immediate ownership and long-term appreciation. There is strong interest in locations along OMR, GST Road, and ECR, driven by infrastructure expansion, improved connectivity, and long-term appreciation prospects," said Bala Ramajayam, MD, G Square Housing.

Apartments dominated the sales at FAIRPRO, contributing over ₹251 crore from 190 unit bookings. Among these, 2 BHK homes were the most popular choice, accounting for 48% of apartment bookings, while 3 BHK units came close behind at 42% and generated the highest revenue in the apartment category.

Location remained a key consideration, with south suburbs accounting for nearly half of all apartment bookings at 49%, followed by west central, west suburbs, and south central zones. The data collectively points to a more confident, deliberate, and financially aware women buyer base shaping Chennai's housing market.