Primary or secondary market home buy? Check budget, risk appetite to decide

You may get a lower price in the secondary market, but you must be prepared for a high upfront payout

Residential property registrations have risen sharply — from 3.07 lakh units in FY2019 to 5.44 lakh units in FY2025, a 77 per cent jump, according to the Inspector General of Registration (IGR). A recent Square Yards analysis shows that 57 per cent (of purchases in FY2025) were primary market deals, while 43 per cent were in the secondary market. With prices rising rapidly post-pandemic, many buyers are considering the secondary market. They must assess the pros and cons of both options to determine which fits them better.

Advantages of the primary market

Buying directly from developers, particularly in under-construction projects, often yields