Why NRIs Are Returning to Invest in Indian Real Estate: A Homecoming Fuelled by Trust and Opportunity

Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) across the globe are returning to India— not physically, perhaps, but financially — to invest in a property back home. And this shift is not only transforming the real estate landscape but also reaffirming a powerful truth: that India today is becoming a reliable and powerful economic hub.

The Rise of the NRI Investor

Once viewed primarily as emotional buyers looking to maintain ties with their roots, NRIs have now become a crucial and strategic segment for Indian real estate developers. According to industry reports, NRI investment in Indian real estate is expected to cross $14 billion in FY25, up from just over $6 billion in FY17 — a growth rate that outpaces several other domestic sectors.

This rise is driven by a confluence of macroeconomic trends, policy reforms, digital adoption, and — most importantly — a resurgence in trust in Indian developers, especially those with strong legacy and delivery track records.

What’s Fuelling This Surge?

There are several key reasons behind this growing appetite:

1. Improved Transparency and Regulation

With the Real Estate (Regulation and Development) Act (RERA) completing a decade of existence, it’s safe to say that Indian real estate is perceived as more accountable and transparent. This has created a level playing field and instilled confidence in buyers — particularly those living abroad.

2. Currency Advantage

For many NRIs earning in USD, GBP, EUR, or AED, the rupee depreciation over the last decade has enhanced purchasing power. A property that cost ₹1 crore in India ten years ago is now significantly more affordable in dollar terms. Combined with the long-term appreciation potential of Indian real estate, this offers a compelling arbitrage opportunity.

Check Out:NRI Real Estate: Potential for Affordable Housing

3. Digital-First Buying Journey

Developers have adapted to NRI buyer preferences by offering end-to-end digital solutions: virtual site tours, WhatsApp-based sales support, online documentation, and digital payments. NRIs can now browse, shortlist, and invest in Indian property from any part of the world — without needing to travel back.

4. India’s Economic Growth Story

India’s emergence as the world’s fifth-largest economy, with aspirations to enter the top three by 2030, has significantly boosted investor sentiment. Real estate — often seen as a proxy for broader economic health — is expected to benefit from rising incomes, urbanisation, and infrastructure spending.

Tier 1 cities such as Mumbai, Bangalore, Pune, Hyderabad, and NCR continue to show strong demand and robust appreciation. NRIs are eyeing these markets not just for residential purposes, but also for rental income and long-term wealth creation.

A Truly Global NRI Base

While the Gulf, US, UK, Canada, and Australia continue to lead the pack in terms of volumes, NRIs from dozens of lesser-known markets are joining the wave. Indians based in Singapore, Germany, Netherlands, South Africa, Kenya, Vietnam, and even Caribbean nations are actively exploring property investments back home.

In fact, in just the last year alone, Godrej Properties - India’s No.1 Real Estate Developer — saw an investment from NRIs in 57 different countries.

Even more striking is the broader trend: since its inception, NRIs from 115 countries have invested in Godrej Properties, indicating strong brand trust and India’s expanding global diaspora footprint. Mirroring the category trend, while Gulf countries and USA have most investors, there’s a growing demand from countries such as Latvia, Iceland, Netherlands, Guyana, Nigeria, Muscat, Zimbabwe and so on. 

Why Developers Like Godrej Properties Stand Out

Legacy, scale, and credibility have become key differentiators in the post-RERA era. NRIs are understandably cautious and prefer to buy from developers with proven credentials.

Godrej Properties, backed by the 128-year-old Godrej Group, has emerged as one of the most respected real estate names in India. Known for timely delivery, transparency, and sustainable design, the brand has successfully created a pan-India presence — making it easier for NRIs from different regions to find a project that suits their family’s needs.

NRI Buyer Preferences Are Evolving. And they are not just buying apartments in metros, but they seek varied opportunities in other asset classes like plotted developments, gated villas & townships, commercial spaces, retail spaces and more.

They also seek features such as high-quality construction, proximity to schools, hospitals, and airports, sustainability features like solar power, water conservation, EV charging, smart home integration, and developer-managed rental and resale assistance

Godrej Properties’ projects, such as those in growth corridors in Mumbai, Bangalore, Pune, and NCR, as well as in emerging corridors like Navi Mumbai, Indore, Nagpur, Hyderabad cater to all these evolving needs — offering lifestyle, reliability, and returns.

The Road Ahead

With Indian real estate becoming more formalised and investor-friendly, the NRI segment is expected to double over the next five years. Government support, technology, strong economic fundamentals, and trusted developers will further accelerate this trend.

But the biggest reason NRIs will continue investing in India is simple: faith in the future of India.

A New Chapter in a Global Story

The story of NRI investment in Indian real estate is not just about property.

It’s about people, possibilities, and a deep desire to stay rooted.

As more global Indians discover opportunities to invest in a better India — cleaner, greener, more transparent — developers like Godrej Properties are rising to the occasion, making that dream tangible and trustworthy.

Check Out:Why NRIs Should Invest in the Indian Real Estate Market?