In a highly anticipated move, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has decided to keep the repo rate steady at 6.5% for the eighth consecutive time. This decision, coupled with robust GDP growth projections, a strong push for infrastructural development, and an increased pace of project launches, is set to bolster the real estate sector significantly.
RBI’s decision to keep the repo rate unchanged is a positive indicator for the real estate industry. The Indian real estate industry and the economy would have greatly benefitted from a rate cut, given that current macroeconomic parameters are favourable and the rate has been maintained at 6.5%. This is the longest the RBI has maintained a status quo in 25 years. We can expect more homebuyers and fence-sitters to come forward and fulfil their property purchases towards the end of this quarter and into 2025. From a borrowing cost perspective, this move ensures that homebuyers’ EMIs don’t increase, and for developers, it doesn’t increase their financial burden owing to the consistent rate of cost of capital. The MMR real estate market is also expected to witness strong purchasing demand from consumers, with infrastructure projects seeing incremental interest in the coming years and this will help to boost the economic growth too.
As developers, we have largely welcomed the RBI’s decision. Stability in the repo rate not only boosts the confidence of homebuyers but also provides much-needed relief to home loan borrowers. For the real estate sector, this consistency translates into a stable environment conducive to growth and expansion. The steady repo rate reassures buyers, fostering an environment of trust and reliability which is crucial for sustained demand in the housing market.
The RBI’s decision is expected to particularly benefit the mid, premium, and luxury housing segments. With India’s economy on a growth trajectory—projected at 8.2% for FY 2023-24—the demand for quality housing is set to rise. The ongoing initiatives under the ‘Viksit Bharat by 2047’ vision aim to propel India towards becoming a developed nation, and the real estate sector is poised to play a pivotal role in this journey.
However, while the sector as a whole is experiencing remarkable growth, there is a critical area that needs targeted intervention: affordable housing. As developers, we recognize the importance of this segment in meeting India’s ambitious housing goals. The government and financial institutions must collaborate to create favorable conditions for the development and purchase of affordable housing. Ensuring that interest rates for home loans remain attractive will be key to making housing accessible to a broader population.
The unchanged repo rate will undoubtedly contribute to the stability and growth of the real estate sector. It promotes current and future real estate investments, which are essential for meeting the increasing demand for residential and commercial spaces. As developers, we are committed to leveraging this growth boost to deliver quality housing that meets the evolving needs of our customers.
By maintaining the repo rate at 6.5% and keeping inflation projections steady, the RBI is signalling its dedication to bolstering the economy and maintaining stability. This is particularly encouraging for developers focused on both luxury and affordable housing. The positive impact of this decision is expected to keep the real estate sector on an upward trajectory, benefiting buyers and developers alike.
The RBI’s decision to maintain the repo rate provides a stable foundation for the real estate sector’s continued growth. As we move forward, it is crucial to focus on holistic growth that includes all housing segments. With the right support and interventions, we can ensure that the real estate sector not only thrives but also contributes significantly to India’s overall development and prosperity.
