Mumbai Man Sells Flat for Rs 5 Crore, Bought at Same Price in 2019: A Profitable Move?
A Mumbai-based chartered accountant has sparked an online debate after claiming that a real estate deal with 'zero appreciation' still delivered 'crazy returns', challenging conventional ideas of profit in property investments.
The discussion began with a viral post on X by CA professional Dhanesh Gianani, who shared his father’s experience with a Mumbai property. In the post, he wrote, “Dad bought a 2BHK in Mumbai for ₹5 crore in 2019. Dad sold it for ₹5 crore in 2026. He actually made crazy returns. Few understand this.”
At first glance, the numbers puzzled many users, as the sale price matched the purchase price, suggesting no direct financial gain. However, the post quickly gained traction, with users offering different interpretations of what “returns” could mean in this context.
Internet takes guesses
Several pointed out that the real benefit lay in the non-monetary value. One user noted that the family effectively lived in Mumbai for seven years without paying rent, a significant saving in one of India’s most expensive housing markets, while also enjoying stability and peace of mind. Others framed it as a case of capital preservation rather than profit. According to one comment, avoiding losses in a volatile real estate market, while also hedging against inflation, can itself be considered a smart financial outcome. The idea that “no loss is the new gain” resonated with many in the thread.
At the same time, some users speculated about technical aspects such as tax implications, long-term capital gains, and possible financing strategies. A few suggested that if the property had been funded through loans or rental income, the overall returns might look different when viewed beyond the surface transaction value.
Despite differing opinions, the post sparked a debate for highlighting a broader perspective that returns on real estate are not always limited to price appreciation. For many, factors like rent saved, lifestyle benefits, and financial stability can play an equally important role in defining the true value of an investment.
