Tech Professionals in Bengaluru Reconsider Home Ownership Near IT Hubs Amid Infrastructure Woes
BM TEAM
Bengaluru’s technology professionals are growing increasingly wary of investing in property near the city’s major IT corridors, citing persistent infrastructure issues and long-term uncertainty about job locations.
From traffic bottlenecks to water shortages, many working in the tech sector say conditions in these areas are far from ideal for settling down. “Basic amenities like sewage systems, consistent power supply, and waste management are either missing or under severe strain,” said one user in an online forum discussing real estate concerns.
‘Don’t Know Where We’ll Work in 5 Years’
Another major deterrent is the unpredictability of future employment. Several contributors highlighted the risk of buying homes far from the city center when job locations frequently change. “We don’t even know where we’ll be working in five years,” one commenter noted, emphasizing that investing in areas like Sarjapur, Yelahanka, or Bagalur—often associated with two-hour commutes—feels impractical, especially for families with young children.
Old Neighborhoods Making a Comeback
Interestingly, older and well-established neighborhoods—particularly those developed before the 1990s—are regaining popularity. These localities may come with a higher price tag but offer the advantage of better infrastructure, easier access to public transport, and proximity to essential services such as hospitals, schools, and commercial centers.
A growing number of homebuyers are prioritizing access to good schools over being close to their workplace. “We chose a school first, then found a home nearby,” shared one participant in the conversation. Many parents feel that reducing their children’s daily commute is more important than a short drive to the office.
Flexibility Over Ownership
Some professionals are opting to continue renting, citing flexibility and the volatile nature of the tech industry as deciding factors. With the job market shifting and urban infrastructure lagging, renting is seen as a safer, less restrictive option by a segment of the workforce.
Land vs. Apartments: A Divided Choice
While apartments are the go-to option for many, some contributors recommend purchasing land instead. The rationale? Plots tend to appreciate faster, offer more control, and don’t come with monthly maintenance costs. “A plot bought in North Bengaluru two years ago would have doubled in value by now,” claimed one individual. Others warned that buying a flat may result in being “locked in,” with modest rental returns making them less financially attractive in the long run.
Water and Infrastructure Concerns Loom Large
City-wide infrastructure challenges remain a major concern for potential buyers. Last summer, parts of the city faced severe water shortages, with some apartment buildings going without supply for over a day. Areas incorporated into the city as recently as 2007—like Whitefield and Sarjapur—are still heavily reliant on borewells and tankers, with costs skyrocketing during dry spells.
For many, these factors are enough to delay or completely rethink the idea of homeownership in Bengaluru. Instead of chasing proximity to tech parks, an increasing number of professionals are prioritizing long-term livability and infrastructure stability when making real estate decisions.
