Women View Homeownership as Security, Men See It as Investment: Atul Monga, BASIC Home Loan

Despite financial independence being a key conversation, women in India still own only 30% of total properties. However, targeted initiatives and financial benefits are helping bridge this gap.

In this exclusive conversation with Republic, Atul Monga, Co-founder & CEO of BASIC Home Loan, shares insights on how women homebuyers are shaping India’s real estate market, the challenges they face, and how lending institutions can empower them to achieve homeownership for housing inclusion in India.

1. What are your key observations on lending to women in India’s affordable housing sector?

Women’s homeownership is rising, driven by financial incentives like lower interest rates, reduced stamp duty, and PMAY subsidies. However, challenges like lack of financial awareness and limited access to credit persist. While women prioritize homeownership for security and stability, affordability remains a key factor. At BASIC Home Loan, we simplify financing and ensure women leverage these benefits to achieve financial independence. More awareness and tailored lending solutions can further accelerate this trend.

2. Do women homebuyers approach the loan search differently than men?

Yes, women take a more research-driven approach, prioritizing affordability, long-term security, and available incentives before finalizing a loan. Unlike men, who often view property as an investment, women focus on homeownership for financial stability. They also prefer co-ownership for tax benefits and government subsidies. This shift is evident in our data, where a significant portion of women borrowers opt for loans under ₹50 lakh in the affordable housing segment.

3. What percentage of your consumers are women? Can you share a typical profile of a woman homebuyer?

Women account for approximately 20% of the total home loans disbursed through BASIC Home Loan. The typical woman homebuyer is 28-45 years old, often a salaried professional, self-employed, or homemaker. Many are first-time homebuyers leveraging PMAY subsidies (up to ₹2.67 lakh) and preferential stamp duty rates (1-2% lower in states like Delhi, UP, Rajasthan, and Haryana) to make homeownership more accessible. Their focus is on long-term financial security and stability.

4. How is BASIC Home Loan catering to women homebuyers? Do you offer differentiated products or services?

We ensure women get access to financial benefits like lower interest rates (5-10 bps lower), reduced stamp duty, and tax benefits. For affordable housing buyers, we simplify access to government subsidies and provide tailored loan assistance. Our tech-driven platform makes the loan process seamless, and we actively promote financial literacy to empower more women to become homeowners. We also work with banks and NBFCs to offer flexible repayment options suited to their needs.

5. What is the average home loan size for a woman homebuyer? How do you see their role evolving in your portfolio?

The average home loan size for women borrowers is ₹55 lakh, but many in the affordable segment opt for loans under ₹50 lakh. Over the next 3-5 years, we expect a significant rise in women homebuyers, driven by financial awareness, economic growth, and government incentives. More women now see homeownership as a long-term asset rather than just a necessity. With better financial products and support, their contribution to the housing sector will continue to grow.

6. What social impact has BASIC Home Loan created for women homebuyers?

Homeownership empowers women, providing economic stability and decision-making power. Studies show women who own assets are 8X less likely to face financial vulnerability. BASIC Home Loan has helped disburse nearly Rs 10,000 Cr affordable housing loans to women, contributing to housing inclusion and greater social security in India. By simplifying access to home loans and promoting financial literacy, we are making homeownership a reality for more women, driving long-term economic and social impact in India.