Struggling to Buy Property on ₹12 LPA in Big Cities? Netizens Share Insights
Netizens on Reddit discuss the challenges of buying property on a ₹12 lakh per annum income in major Indian cities, highlighting the impact of rising real estate prices and the role of inherited wealth and connections.
Property PricesMiddle ClassReal EstateHome LoanAffordable HousingReal EstateAug 11, 2025
“It’s impossible to afford a house even on a home loan. This country was never for a person with a weak background,” the Reddit poster wrote, alleging that those with connections (jaan-pehchaan) manage to secure far better deals at much lower rates. This sentiment resonated with many users who shared similar experiences.
Middle Class Are Just Supposed to Rent
One Redditor argued that in major Indian cities, homeownership for the middle class is becoming a myth. “Three times that amount is needed to buy a decent house. Only people with inherited wealth can afford anything here. Good reason why top talent leaves India. I was an idiot not to do it 10 years ago,” the user wrote.
Others took a more pragmatic approach. “Just ranting about not being able to buy property will not help you. Save for 5–7 years and then see how you are not able to afford it. Don’t think banks will give you 90–95% loan,” one commenter warned. “We are all middle class here — you do not understand the struggles people go through to provide for their families.”
Affordable Options in Smaller Cities
Some users countered the pessimism by pointing to opportunities in smaller markets. “There are many tier-3 cities in the country where you can buy a good house for ₹30 lakh. It will be manageable with a ₹12 LPA salary,” one Redditor said, adding that their father had bought prime property in Lucknow for ₹30 lakh, a flat in Noida for ₹15 lakh, and a government-built home for ₹3 lakh, all on a ₹5 lakh annual salary.
Another user stressed that home buying is often about timing, not just income. “At ₹12 LPA, neither I nor my friends thought of buying a home around 2015–18. Don’t lose hope, salaries increase exponentially around age 35–40. You’ll be able to afford it then, especially in a tier-2 city or town with a home loan paid over 15 years.”
Experts Weigh In
For someone earning ₹12 lakh per annum, roughly ₹70,000–₹80,000 a month, buying a home in Bengaluru is largely a matter of down payment and loan structure, according to Kiran Kumar, vice president at Hanu Reddy Realty. “If you’re looking at a ₹50–70 lakh property, you’ll need a down payment of ₹12–15 lakh. That leaves you with a loan of around ₹50 lakh, which translates to an EMI of nearly ₹50,000 per month. For someone earning ₹80,000, that’s a challenge,” he explained.
Kumar noted that flats in prime locations today often cost upwards of ₹1 crore, putting them beyond the reach of single-income households earning under ₹1 lakh per month. More affordable options are available in emerging areas like Devanahalli in North Bengaluru or Kengeri in the southwest, where entry prices start at around ₹80 lakh, but these locations are 15–20 km from the city centre.
“In city-centric locations, you won’t find many new flats in that price range,” Kumar said. “But second-hand apartments, 15–20 years old, can be found for ₹80 lakh to ₹1 crore in parts of Indiranagar’s outskirts, Kodihalli, and even Vijayanagar.” These resale flats are typically standalone buildings without clubhouses or luxury amenities, though they often come with car parking. Buyers should also factor in the cost of interiors and renovation after purchase.
Kumar stressed that the situation improves significantly for dual-income households. If both partners earn a decent amount, buying a ₹1 crore home becomes much easier as the financial burden is shared. Sunil Singh, founder of Realty Corp, says most enquiries from young couples in Bengaluru show a clear budget ceiling. “They have to consider their monthly expenses, so for many, ₹75 lakh is the upper limit while buying an apartment,” Singh explained.
Within that budget, buyers can explore builder-flat localities like Bagalur in North Bengaluru. In the city centre, areas such as Kadugondanahalli near Indiranagar, home to Grade B developer standalone projects, offer some options. On Old Airport Road, a 2BHK in this price range is also possible. In South Bengaluru, locations like JP Nagar and Jayanagar have some availability in the ₹75 lakh range, Singh said. However, when it comes to Grade A builders, the options shrink drastically. “With reputed developers, a budget of ₹75 lakh will typically get you a 1BHK, not a 2BHK,” he noted.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it possible to buy a home on a ₹12 lakh per annum salary in a major Indian city?
It is challenging but not impossible. It depends on the location and the type of property. Smaller cities and tier-3 locations offer more affordable options.
What are the main factors affecting the affordability of homes in big cities?
The main factors are rising property prices, the need for a significant down payment, and the high EMIs for home loans. Additionally, prime locations are often out of reach for middle-class earners.
How can dual-income households improve their chances of buying a home?
Dual-income households can share the financial burden, making it easier to afford a higher-priced property. This is particularly beneficial in major cities where property prices are high.
Some affordable options include tier-3 cities where property prices are lower. For example, a good house can be bought for around ₹30 lakh in cities like Lucknow.
Answer not available
What advice do experts give to young couples looking to buy a home in Bengaluru?
Experts advise young couples to consider their monthly expenses and set a clear budget. They can explore builder-flat localities and areas like Bagalur, Kadugondanahalli, and Old Airport Road for affordable options.
Related News Articles
Bajaj Housing Finance IPO: Can BHFL Deliver on its Premium Valuation?
BHFL plans to increase its market share through deepening relationship with existing customers, onboarding new customers and expanding to newer geographies to build granular portfolio with reduced concentration risk.
Investor Sentiments Unleashed: How Infrastructure Corridors Are Reshaping Indian Real Estate
With a sharp rise in real estate values, the slopes of development are expanding, beckoning cities like Vadodara, Ahmedabad, and Pune into a new era of growth.
Year-end 2024: Real Estate Shines as a New Status Symbol with Luxury Homes Leading the Charge
In 2024, the real estate market in India witnessed a significant transformation, with a surge in demand for luxury properties priced between ₹10 crore and above. This shift highlights a growing trend where owning a luxury home has become a symbol of statu
Raghvendra Singh Shekhawat on the Rapid Surge in Jaipur's Property Prices
India's real estate sector is a key driver of economic growth, significantly impacting various industries and employment rates. Jaipur, known for its rich culture and rapid urbanization, has seen a staggering 65% increase in property prices over the past
Casagrand Launches New Residential Project in Coimbatore's Sulur
Casagrand, a prominent real estate developer, has launched a new residential project called Casagrand Celest in Sulur, Coimbatore. The project offers 233 affordable 2 and 3 BHK apartments ranging from Rs 54 lakh to Rs 64 lakh.
M3M India to Repay ₹1300 Crore Indiabulls Loan by Q1 FY26
M3M India, a prominent real estate developer, has announced its plan to close a ₹1300 crore loan from Indiabulls by the first quarter of the fiscal year 2026. This strategic move underscores the company's commitment to financial discipline and long-term growth.