1BHK Homes Still in Demand, Especially in MMR and Pune

MUMBAI : Demand for compact homes has not disappeared, despite the growing preference for larger apartments in India’s major housing markets. According to ANAROCK’s H1 2026 Homebuyer Sentiment Survey, 1BHK homes continue to attract a significant share of prospective buyers, particularly in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR), Pune and Bengaluru.

The survey found that MMR recorded the highest preference for 1BHK homes at 18%, followed by Pune at 10% and Bengaluru at 9%. The findings indicate that compact housing continues to have a role in markets where affordability and accessibility remain important considerations.

One of the key factors supporting 1BHK demand is affordability. Smaller apartments generally require a lower upfront investment and can offer comparatively manageable EMIs, making them an entry point for first-time buyers.

In Pune, the presence of a large IT, education and services workforce is also supporting interest in compact homes among young professionals and first-time purchasers. Areas such as Pimpri-Chinchwad, Wagholi, Dhanori, Ambegaon and Undri have traditionally offered relatively more accessible housing options.

MMR presents a different affordability equation. With housing costs significantly higher than many other markets, some buyers may choose a smaller apartment to remain within their budget while staying connected to employment and urban infrastructure.

The continued demand for 1BHK homes does not mean buyers are generally moving away from larger apartments. ANAROCK's survey shows that 3BHK homes were preferred by 48% of respondents nationally, followed by 2BHK homes at 38%. About 9% preferred 1BHK homes.

There are also substantial differences between cities. More than 40% of respondents in MMR and Pune preferred 2BHK homes, while 3BHK preferences exceeded 50% in markets such as Ahmedabad, Chennai, Hyderabad and Delhi-NCR.

The survey suggests that India's residential market is becoming increasingly segmented. While many buyers are looking for additional space and larger homes, 1BHK apartments continue to serve a distinct segment of the market—particularly buyers prioritising affordability, location and entry-level ownership.

For developers, the findings highlight the importance of understanding city-specific housing preferences rather than following a single national trend. For buyers, the continued demand for 1BHK homes indicates that compact housing remains an important part of India's evolving residential market.

By : The Realty Times — Real Estate News, Property Insights & Market Updates