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The residential real estate market in Delhi-NCR is undergoing a noticeable shift, moving from volume-driven affordable housing to value-driven premium supply, according to a report released by JLL. The trend is clearly reflected in the region’s performance during the first quarter of 2026.

Delhi-NCR recorded a 30% year-on-year rise in housing sales in Q1 2026, supported by strong infrastructure development and accumulated buyer demand. The region continues to remain a dominant contributor to the national real estate market, alongside cities like Bengaluru, Mumbai, and Pune, together accounting for nearly 77% of total housing sales across India’s top seven cities.

The numbers

Sales in Delhi-NCR reached 10,740 units in Q1 2026, marking a sharp increase from 8,290 units in Q1 2025.

Launches: New project launches saw an exceptional 64% year-on-year surge, with 13,631 units introduced to the market in Q1 2026 compared to 12,055 units in the previous quarter.

Price appreciation: Driven by premiumisation and strong demand, Delhi-NCR recorded a substantial 12–15% annual growth in property values, leading price appreciation among major cities.

Rahul Singla, Director of Mapsko Group, noted that the performance reflects sustained investor confidence and a growing preference for high-quality housing. He added that with a strong development pipeline and efficient demand absorption, the market remains well-balanced and attractive for both developers and investors.

The Rs 1 crore+ segment

The report highlights a clear shift in market dynamics, with developers focusing on medium- to long-term demand rather than short-term volume growth. This is evident in the dominance of the premium segment.

Apartments priced above ₹1 crore accounted for nearly 71% of total sales in Q1 2026, indicating a strong move away from affordable housing. Buyers are increasingly prioritizing better living standards, larger homes, and improved community environments.

“The steady rise in housing sales across Delhi-NCR reflects a clear shift in buyer preference. Today’s homebuyers are choosing larger homes and better communities. The Rs 1 crore-plus segment is seeing strong demand, especially in NCR. This is driven by higher incomes, lifestyle changes, and long-term investment confidence. Going forward, developers will focus more on premium and mid-premium offerings to match this evolving demand,” said Pushpender Singh, Founder and Managing Director of JMS Group.

Rajan Yadav from Roots Developers echoed similar views, stating that buyers are now more quality-focused and are willing to invest more in better locations and superior living experiences. He also noted that the ₹1 crore-plus segment is expanding beyond core city areas, supported by improved infrastructure and lifestyle upgrades.

Opening up new micro-markets

Infrastructure development continues to play a crucial role in shaping the NCR real estate market. Enhanced connectivity through expressways and metro networks is opening up new micro-markets across the region.

While Gurgaon and Noida have traditionally led housing demand, emerging areas are gaining momentum. Faridabad, in particular, is being seen as a high-potential market due to improved connectivity and rapid infrastructure development.

Mohit Malhotra, Founder and CEO of NeoLiv, highlighted that projects such as the Noida International Airport, upcoming metro extensions, and the FNG Expressway are significantly improving accessibility and reducing travel time. These developments are repositioning cities like Faridabad within the NCR real estate landscape.

In conclusion, the residential market in Delhi-NCR is entering a new phase, driven by rising affluence, urbanisation, and a sustained shift toward premium housing. While short-term economic factors may influence buyer sentiment, the strong performance of the premium segment highlights stable long-term demand and reinforces NCR’s position as one of India’s most dynamic real estate markets.

FAQs

1. Why did Delhi-NCR housing sales increase by 30% in Q1 2026?

The rise is mainly due to strong infrastructure development, accumulated demand, higher incomes, and growing interest in premium housing.

2. What is driving the premium housing segment in NCR?

Factors like lifestyle upgrades, larger home preferences, better amenities, and long-term investment confidence are driving premium demand.

3. What role does the ₹1 crore-plus segment play in the market?

The ₹1 crore-plus segment dominates the market, accounting for around 71% of total sales, showing a shift toward high-value properties.

4. Which cities are contributing most to NCR housing growth?

Cities like Gurgaon, Noida, and emerging markets like Faridabad are key contributors.

5. How is infrastructure impacting real estate in NCR?

New expressways, metro expansions, and projects like the Noida International Airport are improving connectivity and boosting demand in new micro-markets.

6. Is Delhi-NCR a good place for real estate investment in 2026?

Yes, strong demand, price appreciation, and a growing premium segment make Delhi-NCR a promising real estate market for both buyers and investors.