India's Metro Housing Market: A Rigged Game Controlled by a Few Wealthy Families
India's metro housing market is rigged, controlled by a few wealthy families, and driven by black money, according to top finfluencer Akshat Shrivastava. This manipulation keeps prices artificially high, making it a financial death trap for the middle class.
Real EstateMetro HousingBlack MoneyFinancial AdviceMiddle ClassReal Estate NewsJun 28, 2025
Akshat Shrivastava, founder of financial education platform Wisdom Hatch, sparked a heated discussion on social media with a blunt warning: “Real estate in Indian metros is one of the most corrupt I have ever seen.”
In a post on X, Shrivastava claimed that just nine families control nearly 20% of Mumbai’s property, driving up prices with untaxed wealth. “Rich businessmen deal with black money… the only option is to buy real estate or physical gold,” he said. This demand, driven not by need but by tax evasion, keeps metro prices artificially high.
“These rich guys don’t need to rent,” Shrivastava wrote. “They’re cool with keeping properties vacant.” This means fewer homes on the market and sky-high rates for everyone else—especially middle-class buyers who still believe in the “own a home in the city” dream.
Shrivastava called that belief a financial death trap. “Anyone telling you to buy a property in metros to get your 2-3% yield is a sales agent disguised as a YouTuber,” he wrote. His advice? Ditch the dream. If you must buy, check rental yields—if they’re below 4%, walk away. And don’t treat a house like an investment. “Treat your house as lifestyle,” he said. “You might not even end up living in a metro.”
The post struck a nerve online, amplifying long-standing frustrations over India’s real estate scene—one dominated by speculation, secrecy, and staggering inequality. Shrivastava’s insights shed light on the underlying issues that make it nearly impossible for the average person to afford a home in major cities like Mumbai, Delhi, and Bengaluru.
The housing crisis in metros is not just about high prices; it’s about a system that is rigged against the middle class. As black money continues to flow into the real estate market, the gap between the haves and have-nots widens, making the dream of homeownership a distant reality for many.
For those looking to navigate this challenging market, Shrivastava’s advice offers a practical approach. By focusing on lifestyle rather than investment, and being wary of low rental yields, potential buyers can make more informed decisions. However, the systemic issues in the housing market require broader reforms to ensure that homes are affordable and accessible to all.
In the meantime, the conversation started by Shrivastava is a crucial step towards raising awareness and pushing for change. As the debate continues, the hope is that policymakers and regulators will take notice and take action to address the inequalities in India’s real estate market.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Akshat Shrivastava?
Akshat Shrivastava is the founder of Wisdom Hatch, a financial education platform. He is a prominent finfluencer in India known for his insights on personal finance and real estate.
Why are metro property prices artificially high?
Metro property prices are artificially high due to the influx of black money, which is often invested in real estate to evade taxes. This demand, driven by wealthy individuals, keeps prices inflated and out of reach for the middle class.
What is the impact of vacant properties on the housing market?
Vacant properties reduce the number of homes available on the market, leading to higher demand and, consequently, higher prices. This makes it even more difficult for middle-class buyers to afford homes in metros.
What is Shrivastava's advice for potential homebuyers?
Shrivastava advises potential homebuyers to treat a house as a lifestyle choice rather than an investment. He also suggests checking rental yields and walking away if they are below 4%.
What systemic changes are needed in the real estate market?
Systemic changes needed in the real estate market include stricter regulations to combat black money, transparency in property transactions, and policies to make housing more affordable and accessible to the middle class.
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