Rising property prices and growing uncertainty in the technology sector are prompting many homebuyers in Bengaluru to rethink how they invest in real estate. A recent LinkedIn post by architect Shraddha Kamath has reignited discussion around an alternative approach—buying land first and building a home gradually instead of purchasing a ready apartment.
Kamath shared the example of a newly married couple who chose to invest ₹1 crore in a plot of land rather than buy a 3BHK apartment in the city. Both individuals work in corporate jobs and preferred a flexible long-term plan instead of committing immediately to a high-value property purchase.
A different approach to home ownership
According to Kamath, the couple deliberately avoided rushing into buying a ready apartment out of fear that property prices would rise further.
Instead, they secured land in a green, quieter area outside the city centre, where air quality is better and development pressures are lower.
She described the decision as a strategic one that gives buyers “the gift of time.”
“Most people feel pressured to buy a finished flat because they fear prices will rise tomorrow. In that rush, they often settle for homes they don’t truly like,” she wrote.
By purchasing land first, the couple can now plan and construct their house in phases, adjusting the design and investment based on future financial stability.
Growing concerns about job stability
The conversation comes at a time when AI-driven disruption, layoffs, and changing employment patterns in the technology sector are making many professionals cautious about taking on large long-term loans.
Some LinkedIn users said phased construction allows buyers to spread expenses over time, instead of immediately committing to a large monthly EMI.
Others argued that the strategy provides greater flexibility and control over design, budget and timing.
Challenges with the land-first strategy
However, several users highlighted the practical challenges of buying land in Bengaluru.
One user noted that finding a clear-title 1,200 sq ft plot with A-khata status within the city limits is extremely difficult. Most plots with such documentation are located in peripheral areas, where infrastructure and legal clarity may vary.
Others pointed out that construction costs can be significant.
Building a duplex house could cost ₹80 lakh or more, meaning the total investment may end up similar to purchasing an apartment.
Another concern raised was financing. Unlike apartments, banks rarely offer standard home loans for vacant land, requiring buyers to deploy most of the capital upfront.
Investment versus lifestyle choice
Financial adviser Suresh Sadgopan noted that buying land is often treated as an investment strategy rather than a purely residential decision.
Some buyers purchase smaller plots, wait for price appreciation, and later sell the asset to upgrade to a better property.
However, he cautioned that such decisions depend heavily on location, liquidity and long-term financial planning.
The discussion highlights how Bengaluru’s changing economic environment is reshaping property decisions, as homebuyers increasingly balance financial prudence with lifestyle preferences.