Thane Homebuyer Pulse:
In Thane’s core mid-range and affordable homes markets – Ghodbunder Road, Kolset, Kalwa and Shilphata – this is the most common dilemma when it comes to homebuying: 1.5 BHK with a master bedroom or a compact 2 BHK?
On paper, both are in the same ticket size: Rs. 75 Lakh to 95 Lakh. But buyer behaviour in 2025-26 shows a clear tilt: the compact 2BHK wins, but with a caveat.
Media reports quote data from the past few months as indicating compact 2BHKs (650-720 sq.ft. carpet) outsell 1.5BHK with master bedroom (580-640 sq.ft.) by a ratio of nearly 60:40 in Thane.
Why?
1. Family Reality: Thane’s buyer is largely an end-user, upgrading from rental to owned or a 1BHK in Mumbai or homes in Thane’s old buildings and even Kalwa-Mumbra. He needs two usable bedrooms for parents, kids or workfrom- home. A 1.5BHK’s half bedroom feels like a compromise after 2-3 years.
2. Resale and Rental: A true 2BHK has better liquidity. In Thane, a compact 2BHK rents for Rs. 22k-26k, while a 1.5BHK struggles to cross Rs. 19k. Buyers know this.
3. Psychology of a Master: The 1.5BHK with a large master, walk-in wardrobe and big deck looks premium in a show flat. It appeals to young couples and DINKs who want luxury over an extra room. It sells faster in projects near Hiranandani Estate and Vartak Nagar where lifestyle is the pitch.
Verdict: For investors and families, compact 2BHK is the safe, mass choice. For couples prioritising lifestyle over longevity, 1.5BHK with a master wins.
In Thane’s affordable as also mid-segment home buying, utility seems to still be ahead of luxury.
Manthan Mehta
Joint Secretary, CREDAI MCHI Thane
