Built to last, set to outlast

It has been defined not by frenzied speculation, but by steady, demand-driven growth rooted in economic fundamentals.
Unlike other metros that have witnessed steep price spikes or struggled with oversupply, Hyderabad’s property market has emerged as an outlier in 2025.
Unlike other metros that have witnessed steep price spikes or struggled with oversupply, Hyderabad’s property market has emerged as an outlier in 2025. Photo | Express
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4 min read

As we close out 2025, the Indian real estate market continues to feel the aftershocks of the sharp boom-and-bust cycles that have shaped much of the country’s property landscape in recent years. Yet, amid this volatility, one city has quietly carved out a space of calm and consistency: Hyderabad.

Unlike other metros that have witnessed steep price spikes or struggled with oversupply, Hyderabad’s property market has emerged as an outlier in 2025. It has been defined not by frenzied speculation, but by steady, demand-driven growth rooted in economic fundamentals.

This year, the city’s real estate story has been one of stability, standing in contrast to earlier phases marked by rapid and speculative price increases. At a time when global markets remain uncertain and several Indian cities face mounting affordability pressures, Hyderabad has reinforced its position as one of the country’s most resilient urban property markets.

The key differentiator in 2025 has been the nature of demand. Unlike earlier cycles, where growth was often propelled by short-term speculators chasing quick returns, price appreciation this year has been driven by genuine, long-term buyers—working professionals, families and investors responding to real needs for homes and office spaces. Growth has become less about instant gains and more about building long-term confidence, signalling a market that has matured and come of age.

Hyderabad’s performance in 2025 is closely linked to the steady expansion of its economic base. The IT sector continues to thrive, while the rise of Global Capability Centres (GCCs) and a strong startup ecosystem has ensured robust job creation.

These are not fleeting investments seeking temporary incentives, but deeply rooted industries bringing talent, capital and continuity. Consequently, housing demand — from mid-range apartments to luxury homes — has remained steady across segments.

Office real estate, once considered the most vulnerable segment after the pandemic-driven shift to remote work, has defied expectations. In 2025, office space absorption in Hyderabad has been healthy and consistent. While work-from-home and hybrid models are here to stay, companies continue to recognise the value of physical offices for collaboration, culture and innovation. GCCs, in particular, have played a major role, leasing large, high-quality office campuses across both established and emerging hubs.

Vacancy levels in key commercial areas such as the Financial District, Gachibowli and Nanakramguda remain comfortable, reflecting a balance between new supply and actual demand. This equilibrium is critical, especially as unchecked commercial construction in other cities has led to excess supply and market instability.

In the residential segment, buyer behaviour has evolved noticeably. Homebuyers are now more informed, selective and less impulsive. There is a growing preference for larger homes, better amenities and projects by trusted developers. Ready-to-move-in and near-completion properties have gained popularity, reflecting a desire for certainty and immediate usability rather than speculative risk tied to long delivery timelines. Even investors have adopted a more pragmatic approach, focusing on rental yields and long-term appreciation instead of short-term price jumps.

Policy clarity has also played a crucial role. Simplification of GST and clearer tax structures have reduced ambiguity and improved transparency, helping narrow the trust gap between buyers and developers. Although construction costs have risen slightly, these changes have created a more stable environment, particularly benefiting organised players under the evolving regulatory framework.

Infrastructure development has been another key differentiator. While many cities announce ambitious projects that remain on paper, Hyderabad has built credibility through execution.

Improved road networks, Metro expansions and enhanced connectivity along growth corridors have improved livability and opened up new residential and commercial zones. This delivery-focused approach has strengthened confidence among domestic and foreign investors, positioning the city as a compelling long-term investment destination.

Capital flows in 2025 reflect this confidence. Hyderabad has attracted a healthy mix of domestic and foreign investments, with local investors focusing on residential and mixed-use developments, and foreign investors concentrating on office spaces, GCC campuses and logistics parks. The city is no longer viewed as a peripheral option, but as a scalable urban economy firmly placed on the global investment map.

That said, success brings its own cautions. As Hyderabad looks beyond 2025, certain challenges need careful management. Overbuilding in select micro-markets could strain absorption if unchecked. Infrastructure delays may dent buyer confidence, and global economic volatility — particularly in tech-driven sectors — remains a risk. Encouragingly, most indicators suggest these risks are being acknowledged. Inventory levels are higher in some areas, but largely planned and segmented, making them manageable. Prices have remained steady and well below speculative peaks, and as long as developers align projects with real demand and authorities sustain momentum on infrastructure and approvals, the risk of destabilisation remains limited.

Looking ahead to 2026, Hyderabad’s real estate market is expected to grow steadily rather than through abrupt surges. Residential development is likely to expand along the western and southern corridors, while office demand will continue to be driven by GCC expansion. Logistics and warehousing are set to grow along the Outer Ring Road, further widening the city’s commercial footprint. Technology, particularly proptech, will increasingly influence how real estate is marketed, sold and managed, with data-driven decision-making becoming standard practice.

Sustainability is also gaining prominence. Green buildings and energy-efficient designs are becoming more attractive, not only for environmental reasons but for long-term cost efficiency. What was once a niche preference is now recognised as a sound economic choice, especially among corporate tenants and premium homebuyers.

Perhaps Hyderabad’s greatest strength in 2025 has been its ability to strike balance—affordability without sacrificing quality of life, growth without extreme volatility, and ambition without recklessness. The city’s ownership-driven culture remains strong, insulated from sharp market swings seen elsewhere. While younger professionals may begin as renters, the aspiration to own a home remains high, supported by relatively affordable prices and stable income growth.

In a year defined by uncertainty, Hyderabad has demonstrated that a successful real estate market need not be driven by speculation or frenzy. By focusing on fundamentals — jobs, infrastructure, transparency and livability — the city has built a resilient property market that inspires confidence rather than hype. As 2026 approaches, this balanced approach may well prove to be Hyderabad’s most valuable asset.

(As told to Khyati Shah)

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