Rental values in key micro-markets across India’s top seven cities have surged by 72% between the end of 2021 and the first half of 2024, according to a report by Anarock. This rise in rental rates has outpaced capital value growth, reflecting the increasing demand for housing in urban areas as more Indians migrate to cities for job opportunities. Cities like Bengaluru, Pune, Kolkata, and Chennai experienced notable increases in residential rental values, surpassing capital value growth. In contrast, regions such as NCR, MMR, and Hyderabad saw capital values appreciate more than rental rates. Prashant Thakur, regional director and head of research at Anarock, highlighted that rental versus capital value data is crucial when deciding whether to buy or rent a property. He emphasized that factors such as job growth, personal preferences, family size, and financial stability drive this decision. For instance, a resident in Bengaluru paying Rs 50,000 rent for a 2 BHK valued at Rs 1.2 crore may face the dilemma of whether to continue renting or purchase the property. Thakur explained that if the individual can make a 20% down payment and secure a home loan at 9.5% interest over 10 years, buying could prove more profitable, turning rent payments into equity. The sentiment toward homeownership has grown, especially post-pandemic, with many Indians preferring the security of owning a physical asset. Supported by current home loan interest rates between 8.75% and 9.5%, more people are viewing EMIs as investments in a stable asset, unlike volatile market-based investments.