Hyderabad, once considered an affordable city for middle-class homebuyers, is increasingly becoming a tough market for young professionals, particularly in the tech sector. With property prices soaring and financial pressures mounting, many techies find themselves struggling to secure a home. The pressure to own property, not only for financial security but also as a key factor in marriage prospects, has left many wondering if homeownership is a feasible dream. In this article, we explore how Hyderabad’s booming real estate market is impacting young professionals and why many are now opting for land investments over traditional apartments.
The Growing Property Price Crisis in Hyderabad
Hyderabad’s real estate market, once seen as an affordable haven, has drastically shifted in recent years. Property prices in prime locations like Banjara Hills, Gachibowli, and Madhapur have seen steady increases, often placing even modest homes out of reach for many aspiring middle-class buyers. Between January and March 2025, property prices in these areas saw an increase of 8%, with average prices ranging from ₹12,000 to ₹15,000 per square foot.
This increase in prices has been driven by major infrastructure developments, the rise of tech hubs, and government initiatives promoting the startup ecosystem. While these changes have positively transformed the city, they’ve also left many young professionals grappling with affordability issues.
The Struggle of Young Techies
Take the case of a 28-year-old software engineer working in a product-based company in Hyderabad. Despite earning an impressive annual package of ₹29 lakh, he finds himself unable to buy a home due to the combination of rising prices and family responsibilities. “Nearly half my income goes into supporting my siblings’ education and household expenses,” he shared. This situation is increasingly common, as many young professionals, particularly those who are the primary breadwinners in their families, face competing financial demands that leave little room for savings.
The Pressure to Own Property
In addition to financial hurdles, societal pressures are playing a major role. In many Indian families, owning a home is seen as a vital prerequisite for marriage, adding yet another layer of stress to an already challenging situation. One Redditor shared a personal experience of being rejected by potential marriage partners due to the lack of homeownership. “It’s disheartening,” he said, reflecting the deep societal belief that owning property is essential for establishing a stable, respected future.
Shift Towards Plot Investments
As the cost of apartments spirals out of control, many buyers are turning towards land investments, which are relatively more affordable. Instead of paying exorbitant amounts for apartments that may depreciate over time, young buyers are opting to purchase plots of land, where they can build homes at their own pace. This option offers both long-term financial security and a chance to create a customized living space, without the pressure of high-interest loans or subpar construction quality.
One Redditor remarked, “If I’m spending ₹70 lakh anyway, I’d rather own a piece of land and construct at my own pace. At least then, I’ll own land, something that might appreciate over time.”
Is Homeownership Becoming a Myth for the Middle Class?
For many young professionals, owning a home in Hyderabad is quickly becoming a distant dream. Non-branded apartments in locations just 40 minutes from Hitech City are now priced at ₹1.2–1.5 crore, leaving young buyers with limited choices. The mismatch between property inventory and what most middle-class buyers can afford is glaring, and some even warn that purchasing apartments is no longer seen as an investment, but as a liability. “I’ve seen what 10-year-old apartments look like in places like Narsingi,” said one frustrated buyer. “The construction quality just doesn’t last.”
Book Under-Construction Apartments to Show Financial Stability?
Some Redditors have suggested an unconventional approach: purchasing under-construction flats to present financial stability for marriage and later flipping the property to recover costs. While this strategy might not be foolproof, it presents a possible solution for those looking to navigate the difficult real estate market in Hyderabad.
Quick Facts and Highlights
| Factor | Details |
|---|---|
| Average Property Price | ₹12,000–₹15,000 per sq ft (Banjara Hills) |
| Growth in Prices | 8% increase between Jan–Mar 2025 |
| Common Property Issues | Poor construction quality, water leakage, depreciation of apartments |
| Challenges Faced by Young Techies | Family support obligations, high property prices, marriage pressure |
| Preferred Investment Option | Land purchases over apartments, with a focus on long-term appreciation |
Quotes from Industry Experts
GV Jagdish, Realtor (Hanu Reddy Realty):
“Since the 2000-2010 period, Hyderabad has seen major infrastructure projects and the arrival of tech companies, which have transformed the city into a tech hub. Property prices have risen substantially, and today, in areas like Banjara Hills and Gachibowli, prices are on par with Bengaluru. This makes owning a home in these areas unaffordable for many.”
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Why have property prices in Hyderabad risen sharply?
The rise in property prices is due to significant infrastructure developments, the influx of tech companies, and government initiatives that have boosted the city’s real estate market. These factors have made prime areas like Banjara Hills and Gachibowli some of the most sought-after locations, leading to increased demand and higher prices.
2. How are young tech professionals coping with high property prices?
Many young tech professionals are turning to plot investments, opting to buy land and build homes at their own pace. This option is seen as more affordable and allows for long-term financial security.
3. What is the impact of high property prices on marriage prospects?
In Indian society, owning a home is often seen as a prerequisite for marriage. The pressure to buy property is making it difficult for young professionals, especially techies, to meet societal expectations. This has led to some being rejected by potential partners due to their inability to own a home.
4. Is buying an apartment in Hyderabad still a good investment?
While buying property in Hyderabad was once considered a solid investment, the rapid increase in prices and depreciation of apartment quality in some areas have raised doubts. Many are now questioning whether purchasing apartments is still a wise financial move.
5. What is the future outlook for Hyderabad’s real estate market?
While the market shows no signs of slowing down, affordability remains a significant issue for middle-class buyers. With rising prices, many are exploring alternative investment options such as land purchases or under-construction flats.