Has Average Apartment Loading Reached 40% in Major Indian Cities?

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Has Average Apartment Loading Reached 40% in Major Indian Cities?

Synopsis

The average loading of apartments in major Indian cities has surged to 40%, reflecting a shift in buyer preferences towards enhanced amenities. Bengaluru leads with the highest increase, while cities like Chennai show a more cautious approach. This trend highlights the evolving landscape of urban living in India, where the demand for livable space and amenities continues to grow.

Key Takeaways

  • Average loading in top cities reached 40%.
  • Bengaluru saw the highest increase from 30% to 41%.
  • Mumbai has the highest loading at 43%.
  • Homebuyers now prefer more amenities and livable space.
  • Current regulations do not cap loading percentages.

Mumbai, June 9 (NationPress) The average apartment “loading” has climbed to 40% during the January-March period this year, a notable increase from 31% in 2019. Among the top seven cities, Bengaluru has experienced the most significant rise in average loading over the last seven years, jumping from 30% in 2019 to 41% in Q1 2025, as highlighted in a report released on Monday.

In response to the growing demand for modern amenities in housing projects, the loading factor has steadily increased across leading cities, according to the latest data from ANAROCK Research.

The Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR) continues to boast the highest loading among the top seven cities, with 43% in Q1 2025. This region has consistently seen an increase in average loading percentage over the years, rising from 33% in 2019 to 39% in 2022, and now 43% in Q1 2025.

In the context of residential apartments, the average loading factor represents the difference between the super-built-up area and the carpet area.

While the Real Estate Regulatory Authority (RERA) now mandates developers to disclose the total carpet area provided to buyers, there are currently no regulations that cap the loading factor in projects.

“The data from Q1 2025 indicates that 60% of the total area that apartment buyers in the top seven cities are paying for is livable space, while the remaining 40% comprises common areas such as elevators, lobbies, staircases, clubhouses, and terraces,” explained Dr. Prashant Thakur, Regional Director & Head — Research and Advisory at ANAROCK Group.

In contrast, Chennai has shown the least increase in average loading, recording 36% in Q1 2025, which reflects a local demand trend where homebuyers prefer to invest more in usable space rather than common areas.

In Delhi-NCR, the average loading percentage has risen from 31% in 2019 to 37% in 2022, and now 41% in Q1 2025. In Pune, it was 32% in 2019, increased to 36% in 2022, and stands at 40% in Q1 2025, according to the data.

Hyderabad has seen its average loading percentage rise from 30% in 2019 to 33% in 2022, and further to 38% in Q1 2025.

Historically, a loading of 30% or lower was considered standard.

“Today, a higher amenity loading has become commonplace across most developments, as homebuyers now expect more than just basic lifestyle amenities; they are looking for fitness centers, clubhouses, landscaped gardens, and grand lobbies,” noted Thakur.

In many instances, buyers in various cities, except in Maharashtra, remain unaware of the extent to which they are financing the overall usable space within their apartments.

Point of View

It's crucial to acknowledge the evolving demands of homebuyers in India. The rising average loading percentages indicate a significant shift towards prioritizing amenities and livable space. This trend reflects broader changes in consumer expectations and the real estate market, emphasizing the need for developers to adapt to these preferences. At NationPress, we remain committed to providing insights that matter to our readers.
NationPress
13/06/2025

Frequently Asked Questions

What does average apartment loading mean?
Average apartment loading refers to the difference between the super-built-up area and the carpet area in residential apartments.
Why is loading increasing in Indian cities?
The increase in loading is driven by rising demand for modern amenities and livable space among homebuyers.
How does loading affect homebuyers?
Higher loading means that a portion of the space homebuyers pay for includes common areas, which may not be directly usable.
Are there any regulations on loading percentages?
Currently, there are no laws that limit the loading factor in residential projects, although RERA requires disclosure of carpet area.
Which city has the highest average loading?
As of Q1 2025, the Mumbai Metropolitan Region has the highest average loading at 43%.