Vinita Singhania, discusses the importance of home ownership amongst women as a crucial step towards financial independence.

Financial independence is the ticket to a life of personal choice. For women, the idea is more than just income and savings and includes the possession of assets that yield long-term security. Financial inclusion has expanded, with more women taking charge of their investments. Women now represent over 25 per cent of individual investors and hold 33 per cent of the total individual assets under management (AUM). Notably, participation in mutual funds is also growing beyond the top 30 cities, as highlighted in the AMFI Factbook 2024.
Among all the investments, real estate is the most unique. Homeownership is independence, protection against uncertainty, and a foundation for future stability. Throughout the globe, successful women have identified property as a great wealth builder. Oprah Winfrey, the self-made billionaire, has continued to make property investments, which is a testament to having an appreciation of long-term worth. In India, professionals and businesswomen are defying conventional stereotypes by actively making property investments, thereby changing the narrative from reliance to economic independence.

Rise in women’s involvement in real estate investment
For decades, homeownership was considered a male-dominated domain. That is changing dramatically now. Women across all income groups are entering the real estate purchase business, looking at this activity not as a secondary option but as a main means of achieving financial independence. Industry data in recent years indicate that over 30 per cent of property buyers in urban India are women—a figure doubled in the last decade.
Policy incentives, such as lower stamp duties for women buyers and tax relief on home loans, are helping drive this trend. Section 80C of the Income Tax Act allows first-time female homeowners to claim a deduction of up to `1.5 lakh on the principal repayment of their home loan. Additionally, under Section 24(b), women can deduct up to `2 lakh on the interest paid for a home loan, provided they own the property entirely.
Above all, it is a shift in attitude—women are actively making their own financial security instead of waiting passively for it to happen.

Importance of home ownership to women
Home ownership is a financial foundation that no other investment can offer. In contrast to rental property, whose value fluctuates based on market trends, a home is a steady asset that gains value over the years. It accumulates wealth from generation to generation and provides a haven in times of need. Furthermore, women who are homeowners can avail themselves of more financial opportunities either by using the property as collateral for business expansion or by accessing education loans.
Apart from economic advantages, home ownership is a step towards autonomy. It guarantees that women have a place where decisions are theirs alone, without interference or social control. In a world where women’s economic independence is still questionable, homeownership is a revolution. Real estate investment strongly supports a woman’s social standing. Some banks provide women homebuyers with loans covering up to 90 per cent of the property’s value, compared to 80 per cent for men. Others offer extended repayment tenures of up to 30 years, easing the financial burden and making homeownership more manageable.

Challenges that still persist
Despite progress, several challenges persist. Financial literacy gaps remain a major issue. Many women are not introduced to financial planning early in life, which results in hesitation when making large investments like home purchases. Income inequality is also an issue. With the pay gap between men and women, still an issue in most industries, women will tend to be granted smaller loans than men, which reduces their purchasing power.
Social and cultural biases are also barriers. Economic choices in the majority of households are still within the purview of male household members, whereas independent investment choices by women are disapproved.
Moreover, legal and administrative complexities such as property title verification and mortgage approval processes can make it so difficult for first-time buyers.

Overcoming obstacles: Road to property ownership
Empowerment starts with awareness. Women need to give top priority to financial literacy, investment education, loan terms, and property laws. Banks and organisations now provide courses and online resources to make home buying easier. Accessing the policy incentives is a crucial step. The different states offer a lower rate of stamp duty to women buyers, and the banks provide differential rates of interest on housing loans. These incentives may significantly lower the cost of property ownership.
Maintaining and building a strong credit profile is of the utmost significance. Timely payment of loans, proper use of credit, and paying off current debts improve one’s loan-worthiness and better interest rates. There needs to be meticulous research. Women must research a variety of financing opportunities, compare homes diligently, and consult an attorney to discuss ownership papers prior to buying.
Consulting professional guidance from property and finance specialists can increase knowledge, thus making informed decisions in accordance with long-term financial goals. An informed strategy allows for an easier and more satisfying path to homeownership.

Conclusion
Women in India and across the world are redefining financial independence through real estate investment. Purchasing a property is a symbol of independence, planning and determination. While challenges remain, proactive steps, supportive policies and a determined mindset can help more women claim their rightful place in the real estate landscape. A home is an investment in empowerment, security and a future shaped by one’s own choices.

About the author:
Vinita Singhania, Chairperson and Managing Director, JK Lakshmi Cement Limited, is a businesswoman, and an industrialist, with diversified and rich business experience.