The rise of offbeat destinations is a paradigm shift in residential real estate

Offbeat real estate destinations are becoming increasingly popular, reflecting a broader trend toward a balanced and enriching lifestyle. 

Over the last few years, the Indian real estate sector has experienced a significant shift, with homebuyers increasingly seeking serene and offbeat destinations far from the hustle and bustle of major cities. Sonipat, Bhiwadi, Panchkula, and Meerut have emerged as top residential investment destinations, offering a combination of natural beauty, cultural richness, and a thriving economy. This transition reflects a desire for a higher quality of life, where serenity and modern amenities coexist in a relaxed setting. 

Neoliv’s founder and CEO, Mohit Malhotra, says, “We envision that new-age cities will become the crucible of future economic dynamism. Their appeal stems from a harmonious combination of affordability, accessibility, and lifestyle amenities, creating new relaxed places to call home. Furthermore, the extended NCR is seeing significant infrastructure improvements, thanks to government initiatives to promote sustainable development. With the emergence of large global-scale industries such as the upcoming Maruti Suzuki plant in the Sonipat belt, these areas are poised to drive demand for mid-income housing projects and plotted developments, transforming into vibrant residential neighborhoods.” 

Offbeat destinations are gaining popularity, indicating a broader trend toward a more balanced and enriching lifestyle. For example, Bhiwadi, once an obscure industrial town in the National Capital Region (NCR), is quickly establishing itself as a new real estate development, with parallels to Sohna Road’s highly sought-after micro-market. Bhiwadi with its strategic location, robust infrastructure, and emerging commercial and residential ventures, is on track for exponential growth, similar to Sohna Road in Gurugram. 

Anil Gupta, President of CREDAI NCR Bhiwai Neemrana, says, “Bhiwadi has enormous growth and investment potential due to its strategic location, robust infrastructure, and burgeoning commercial and residential developments. When the region is connected to the Delhi-Mumbai Expressway, its potential for growth and prosperity increases. As stakeholders in Bhiwadi’s development, we are confident in the town’s potential to become a key destination in the NCR, providing unparalleled opportunities for growth and prosperity. 

More and more families are relocating to these areas, drawn by the prospect of a better lifestyle and excellent investment opportunities. Panchkula, for example, has grown significantly. DLF’s luxurious residential project, The Valley, which debuted in 2010, has seen property values rise from Rs 2,000 per sq ft to an impressive Rs 8,000. This remarkable ascent highlights the tranquil town’s untapped potential, with DLF leading the charge. Their projects, which include The Valley, The Valley Gardens, and their most recent offering, The Valley Orchard, have paved the way for increased demand for homes in these areas. The Valley Gardens spans 34 acres (13.76 hectares) and offers breathtaking views of the Morni Hills and Shivalik Range. DLF unveiled its sample apartment, allowing potential buyers to experience luxury living firsthand. 

These tier-2 cities are expanding rapidly, thanks to improved infrastructure such as better roads, public transportation, and vibrant commercial districts. Most importantly, it provides a peaceful yet connected lifestyle, which tier-1 cities struggle with due to overcrowding and rising property prices. This development includes physical, cultural, and economic growth, creating new opportunities to revitalize local economies. 

Rahul Singla, Director of Mapsko Group, says, “In recent years, tier-2 cities like Sonipat have seen the emergence of the organized real estate market, which has provided unprecedented growth and development opportunities for the developing city. Sonipat offers an enticing combination of affordability and quality of life in an ever-changing landscape, as remote work options gain popularity. Homebuyers prefer spacious homes against a backdrop of lush greenery, which provides a respite from densely populated urban areas. Sonipat’s appeal extends beyond its economic prospects, with buyers prioritizing wellness and sustainability in their investment decisions.

This seismic change in style signals a fundamental reimagining of the Indian residential landscape. It demonstrates a growing desire for a lifestyle that transcends the mundane, promising a future of limitless innovation and steady growth. Indeed, the road ahead in residential real estate is paved with unique destinations where tranquility and modernity meet, beckoning those looking to invest in a lifestyle rather than just bricks and mortar.